You get an International Driver's Permit from a AAA office or passport acceptance facility — not from your state DMV

An International Driver's Permit (IDP) is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and a small number of passport acceptance facilities, not by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. You cannot order one online or by mail from AAA — you must appear in person with your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photo, and a fee (typically $20). The permit is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose, and it serves as a translation of your U.S. license into ten languages recognized by the United Nations.

The process takes about 15 minutes at most AAA offices. You walk out with the permit the same day. If you do not have an AAA membership, you can still get an IDP — membership is not required, though members sometimes receive a small discount on the fee.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA is the primary source for International Driver's Permits in the United States, and you must explore in person at a local office.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a completed IDP process, a passport-style photo, and the fee — typically $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for three years.
  • A small number of passport acceptance facilities also issue IDPs, so if you do not have AAA nearby, check your local post office or courthouse.
  • The permit is ready the same day and is valid only when carried together with your original U.S. driver's license.
  • An IDP is not a replacement for your U.S. license and does not change your driving record or insurance status in the United States.

How to find the AAA office nearest you

Visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool, or call 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) to find the closest branch. AAA has offices in all 50 states, though they are more densely located in urban and suburban areas. Rural areas may have fewer options, and some smaller towns may not have an AAA office at all.

When you call or visit the website, confirm that the office you plan to visit has IDP applications in stock and can issue the permit the same day. Some very small offices occasionally run out of forms or photos, so a quick call ahead prevents a wasted trip.

What documents and information you need to bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license (the one you will be driving with abroad), a completed IDP process form (AAA provides this at the office or you can read it from their website beforehand), one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and cash or a card for the fee. The photo must be recent — taken within the last six months — and meet standard passport photo requirements: a plain background, your full face visible, and no sunglasses or hats.

You do not need your passport itself, though bringing it does not hurt. You do not need proof of insurance, vehicle registration, or any other document. The IDP is based solely on your driver's license and your identity.

Passport acceptance facilities that issue IDPs

In addition to AAA, some U.S. post offices, courthouses, and library branches that are designated passport acceptance facilities also issue International Driver's Permits. These locations are less common than AAA offices and availability varies by region. To find one near you, search "passport acceptance facility" plus your city name, or call your local post office and ask whether they issue IDPs.

The process process and fees are the same at passport facilities as at AAA. You still need your driver's license, a completed form, a passport photo, and the fee. The main difference is that passport facilities may have more limited hours or may require you to call ahead to confirm they have IDP forms in stock.

One-year versus three-year permits

AAA offers two options: a one-year IDP for approximately $20 or a three-year IDP for approximately $30. The three-year permit costs more upfront but works out cheaper per year if you travel internationally more than once. Choose based on how often you plan to drive abroad and how long you expect your current U.S. license to remain valid.

If your U.S. driver's license expires before your three-year IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid — it cannot outlive your original license. So if your license expires in two years, a three-year permit would be wasteful. Check your license expiration date before deciding.

What happens after you receive your IDP

Your International Driver's Permit is valid only when you carry it together with your original U.S. driver's license. You cannot drive using the IDP alone. The permit is a translation document, not a replacement — it does not change your driving record, your insurance status, or anything about how you are licensed in the United States.

When you travel, keep both documents together. Some rental car companies abroad may ask to see the IDP; others may not. The permit is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals, but a few countries do not recognize it or have additional requirements. Check the specific country's rules before you travel.

The IDP does not affect your U.S. insurance. Your home auto insurance does not cover you abroad, and the IDP does not change that. You will need to purchase separate international driving coverage or a temporary policy from your insurer or a travel insurance provider before you leave.

If you cannot get to an AAA office or passport facility

If you live in a remote area or have mobility limitations that make visiting an office difficult, you have limited options. AAA does not issue IDPs by mail or online. Some travel agencies or international driving services advertise online IDP issuance, but these are not legitimate — the IDP must be issued in person by AAA or an authorized passport facility.

If you are traveling soon and cannot reach an office in time, consider whether you actually need an IDP for your destination. Many countries accept a U.S. driver's license alone, especially if you are renting from a major company. Check your destination country's specific requirements before assuming you must have an IDP. If you do need one and cannot obtain it before your trip, you may be able to get one at an AAA office in the country you are visiting, though this is not may provide and depends on the country's agreements with AAA International.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driver's Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada and Mexico recognize a valid U.S. driver's license without an IDP. An IDP is useful in those countries but not required. It becomes more important in countries outside North America, particularly in Europe, Asia, and South America, where some rental companies or police may expect to see one.

Can I renew my IDP by mail or online?

No. You must renew in person at an AAA office or passport facility, just as you did for the original permit. Bring the same documents — your current U.S. license, a new passport photo, a completed process form, and the fee.

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

You cannot get an IDP with a suspended or expired license. The IDP is valid only when paired with a valid U.S. driver's license. If your license is suspended, you must resolve that first. If it is expired, you must renew it at your state DMV before explore for an IDP.

Does an International Driver's Permit work if I have a learner's permit or provisional license?

It depends on your state's rules and the country you are visiting. Some countries will not recognize a learner's permit or provisional license even with an IDP. Check both your state's restrictions and your destination country's requirements before traveling. In most cases, you will need a full, unrestricted driver's license.

How much does an International Driver's Permit cost?

A one-year IDP costs approximately $20, and a three-year IDP costs approximately $30. Fees may vary slightly by location and AAA membership status. Call your local AAA office to confirm the exact fee before you visit.