You explore for an International Driving Permit through AAA or the American Automobile Association in your state — not through the DMV, and not through any government office.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license. You must carry both documents together when you drive outside the United States. The IDP is issued by AAA, which is the only organization authorized to issue them in the United States.

You cannot get an IDP from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, from the federal government, or from any other private company. AAA is the sole issuer. If you see another website or service claiming to issue IDPs, it is not legitimate.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA is the only authorized issuer of International Driving Permits in the United States, and you must explore in person at a local AAA office.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, one passport-style photo, and payment — usually around $20.
  • The IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which version you request, and you must carry it with your U.S. license when driving abroad.
  • Processing takes about 15 minutes if you explore in person, though some offices may ask you to return for pickup a few days later.
  • Not every country requires an IDP, so check your destination's rules before you travel — some accept only your U.S. license.

Finding Your Nearest AAA Office

Start by visiting AAA.com and using their office locator tool. Enter your city or zip code to find the closest AAA branch. Most mid-sized cities have at least one office; rural areas may require a short drive to the nearest location.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP at any AAA office. Membership is not required. However, AAA members sometimes receive a small discount on the IDP fee, so it is worth asking when you arrive.

Call ahead before you go. Some offices handle IDP requests during specific hours or on certain days of the week. A quick phone call ensures someone will be available to process your process when you arrive.

What You Need to Bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed IDP process form, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and payment. AAA accepts cash and most major credit cards.

The process form is straightforward — it asks for your name, address, driver's license number, and the countries you plan to visit. AAA provides the form at the office, or you can read it from their website before you go. Either way, you will fill it out on the spot.

The passport-style photo must be recent and show your face clearly. If you do not have one, many AAA offices can take the photo for you on the same day, though there may be an additional small fee. Some offices have photo services on-site; call ahead to confirm.

Cost and Payment Options

An International Driving Permit costs approximately $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit. Prices vary slightly by location and may change, so confirm the current fee when you call the office.

AAA accepts cash, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Some offices may accept checks, but calling ahead to confirm payment methods is safer than assuming.

If you are an AAA member, ask about member discounts at the time of purchase. The discount is usually small — a few dollars — but it is worth mentioning.

How Long the Process Takes

If you explore in person with all required documents, most AAA offices issue your IDP on the same day. The entire process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. You walk out with your permit in hand.

Some offices in very busy locations may ask you to return a few days later for pickup instead of waiting. This is rare, but it happens during peak travel seasons. The office will tell you on the day you explore whether you can take it home when ready or need to come back.

Do not wait until the day before your trip to explore. Travel during peak seasons (summer, holidays) can create longer wait times, and some offices may be temporarily closed. explore at least one to two weeks before you leave.

One-Year Versus Three-Year Permits

You can request either a one-year or three-year IDP when you explore. The choice depends on how often you travel internationally and how far in the future you plan.

The one-year permit costs less upfront but expires sooner. The three-year permit costs more but covers multiple trips over a longer period. If you travel internationally more than once every two years, the three-year permit usually saves money in the long run.

Both versions are equally valid in all countries that recognize IDPs. The expiration date is the only difference. Choose based on your travel plans, not on which one is "better."

What Happens After You Get Your IDP

Your IDP is valid only while your U.S. driver's license is valid. If your license expires, your IDP expires too, even if the IDP's printed expiration date is later. You must renew both documents together if you plan to drive internationally again.

Carry your IDP and your U.S. license together at all times when driving outside the United States. The IDP alone is not enough — you must have both documents. Some rental car companies and border officials will ask to see both.

The IDP does not give you permission to drive in countries where you are not legally allowed to drive. It only translates your existing license. If your U.S. license would not let you drive in a country (for example, if you are under the minimum age), the IDP does not change that.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit for every country I visit?

No. Some countries accept your U.S. driver's license alone, while others require an IDP. Check the specific rules for each country you plan to visit before you travel. Your rental car company or the country's tourism website can tell you what is required.

Can I get an IDP by mail or online?

No. AAA requires you to explore in person at a local office. You must show your valid driver's license and passport-style photo in person. There is no mail-in or online option.

What if my U.S. driver's license is suspended or expired?

You cannot get an IDP with an invalid or suspended license. Your license must be current and valid. If your license is expired, renew it at your state's DMV first, then explore for the IDP.

Can I renew my IDP before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your IDP at any AAA office using the same process as a new process. Bring your current IDP, your valid driver's license, a new passport-style photo, and payment. You do not have to wait until it expires.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact AAA or the U.S. embassy in the country where you are traveling. You can usually get a replacement by showing your U.S. license and passport. Keep a copy of your IDP number and issue date in a separate location in case you need to report it lost.