You get an International Driving Permit from a AAA office, a passport acceptance facility, or certain travel agencies — not from the DMV or any government office

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is issued by private organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department, not by your state's DMV or any government agency. The two main sources in the United States are the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). You cannot order one online or by mail from a government office — you must visit a physical location in person, bring your valid U.S. driver's license and a passport-style photo, and pay a fee on the spot.

The permit itself is a booklet that translates your driving privileges into ten languages and is recognized in over 150 countries. It does not replace your U.S. license — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue, or three years if you pay a higher fee at the time of purchase.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA and AATA are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs in the United States; you must visit a physical office with your driver's license and a passport photo.
  • The one-year IDP costs less than the three-year version, but both are inexpensive compared to other travel documents and are issued the same day.
  • You must bring your valid U.S. driver's license and one passport-style photo (2x2 inches); an expired license will not work.
  • The IDP is valid only outside the United States and must be carried together with your U.S. driver's license at all times when driving abroad.

How to Get an IDP from AAA

AAA is the largest source of IDPs in the United States and has over 1,000 offices nationwide. You can visit any AAA office, even if you are not a member — membership is not required to purchase an IDP. Walk in during business hours with your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and cash or a card to pay the fee. The staff will fill out a one-page form, take your photo if you do not have one, and issue the permit on the spot.

To find the AAA office nearest you, go to AAA.com and use their office locator tool. Call ahead to confirm hours and to ask whether they have photos in stock — some offices can take your photo for a small additional fee if you arrive without one. Processing takes about 10 minutes. The one-year permit costs around $20, and the three-year permit costs around $30, though fees vary slightly by region.

How to Get an IDP from AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance is the second authorized issuer and operates through a smaller network of offices and travel agencies. AATA locations are less common than AAA offices but are often found in larger cities and at travel agencies that specialize in international travel. You will need the same documents: a valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photo, and payment in cash or card.

To find an AATA office or authorized travel agency, visit AATA.org or call their main office to ask for locations in your state. Processing is the same as AAA — when ready issuance on the day you visit. Fees are comparable to AAA, typically $20 for one year and $30 for three years.

What Documents and Photos You Need

You must bring a valid U.S. driver's license — expired licenses are not accepted, even if you are renewing an IDP. The license must be in your name and must not be suspended or revoked. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it at your state DMV before you can get an IDP.

You also need one passport-style photo that is 2x2 inches, in color or black and white. The photo must show your face clearly, taken against a plain background, and must be recent (usually taken within the last six months). If you do not have a photo, AAA offices can take one for you for a small fee — typically $5 to $10. You do not need to bring your passport itself, though having it with you can be helpful if the staff need to verify your identity.

Fees and How Long the Permit Lasts

The one-year IDP typically costs $15 to $25, depending on the issuing organization and your region. The three-year IDP costs $25 to $35. Both are issued when ready — you walk out with the permit the same day. There are no hidden fees, and you do not need to renew or reapply if you purchase the three-year version.

The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. Once it expires, you will need to visit an AAA or AATA office again to purchase a new one. If you are planning a trip more than a year away, the three-year permit is the better value. If you are unsure whether you will drive internationally again, the one-year permit is a lower-cost option.

What to Do If There Is No AAA or AATA Office Near You

If you live in a rural area or a state with few AAA or AATA locations, you have two options. First, check whether any travel agencies in your area are authorized AATA agents — some independent travel agencies can issue IDPs on behalf of AATA. Call ahead to confirm they offer this service before you visit.

Second, if no local option exists, you can travel to the nearest AAA or AATA office. Because the permit is issued when ready, you can visit an office in a neighboring city or state on a single trip. Plan to visit during business hours and bring all required documents. Some readers have also reported that certain passport acceptance facilities or county clerk offices may have information about nearby IDP issuers, though they do not issue the permits themselves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common mistake is bringing an expired driver's license. The IDP is tied to your current license, and an expired license will be rejected. If your license has expired, renew it at your state DMV first, then visit AAA or AATA.

A second mistake is assuming you do not need to bring the IDP with you. The permit is only valid when carried together with your U.S. driver's license. If you are stopped by police abroad and have only the IDP, it will not be recognized. Pack both documents in your travel bag.

A third mistake is purchasing an IDP too far in advance. Because the permit is valid for only one or three years from the date of issue, buying it months before your trip means it may expire before you use it again. Purchase the IDP within a few weeks of your departure date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order an IDP online or by mail?

No. IDPs must be issued in person at an AAA or AATA office. You cannot order one online, by phone, or by mail. You must visit a physical location with your driver's license and a photo.

Do I need to be a AAA member to get an IDP?

No. AAA membership is not required. Any person with a valid U.S. driver's license can visit an AAA office and purchase an IDP, whether or not they are a member.

What if my driver's license is suspended or revoked?

You cannot get an IDP if your license is suspended or revoked. The IDP is an extension of your U.S. license, and it is only valid if your underlying license is valid. Resolve the suspension or revocation with your state DMV first.

Can I get an IDP if I have a learner's permit instead of a full license?

No. You must have a valid, full driver's license. Learner's permits are not accepted because they do not authorize independent driving in the United States or abroad.

How long does it take to get an IDP after I explore?

IDPs are issued the same day you visit the office. There is no waiting period. You walk in, complete a one-page form, pay the fee, and leave with the permit in hand.