Get your IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA) office in Manhattan or online

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the only organisation in the United States authorised to issue International Driving Permits. In New York City, you can visit a physical AAA office in Midtown Manhattan or order one by mail. The in-person route takes about 20 minutes and costs $20; the mail route takes one to two weeks and costs $22 (including postage).

You do not need to be a AAA member to get an IDP. You will need a valid U.S. driver's license (your New York State license works), a passport or other government-issued photo ID, and a completed process form. If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign the process.

An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. It is not a replacement for your U.S. license — you must carry both documents when driving abroad. The permit is a translation of your U.S. license into multiple languages and is recognised in over 150 countries.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA is the only authorised issuer of International Driving Permits in the United States, and you can get one at their Manhattan office or by mail.
  • You need a valid New York State driver's license, a government-issued photo ID, and a completed process form — AAA membership is not required.
  • In-person service at the AAA office takes about 20 minutes and costs $20; mail service takes one to two weeks and costs $22.
  • An IDP is valid for one year and must be carried alongside your U.S. driver's license when driving in foreign countries.

AAA Manhattan office location and hours

The AAA New York office is located at 1415 Broadway (at 39th Street) in Midtown Manhattan. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The office is closed on Sundays and major holidays. You can walk in without an appointment, though wait times vary depending on the time of day and day of the week.

If you live in a different borough or prefer not to travel to Manhattan, the mail-in option is faster than you might expect. You can read the process form from AAA's website, fill it out at home, and mail it with your documents and payment. AAA typically processes mail orders within one to two weeks.

What documents to bring or send

For an in-person visit, bring the following: your valid New York State driver's license, a government-issued photo ID (passport, military ID, or state ID card), and a completed AAA International Driving Permit process form. You can fill out the form at home before you go, or AAA staff can help you complete it on-site.

For a mail-in order, send the same documents along with a cheque or money order for $22 (made payable to AAA). Do not send cash. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want AAA to return your original documents. AAA will keep your process materials for their records, so photocopies are acceptable — you do not need to send originals.

If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the process in person (for in-person service) or on the form itself (for mail-in service). The adult does not need to be present at the office or provide their own ID, but their signature must be on the process.

Cost and payment methods

An International Driving Permit costs $20 at the AAA Manhattan office if you pay in person. Payment methods include cash, debit card, and credit card. If you order by mail, the cost is $22 to cover the process fee plus postage.

There are no additional fees or hidden charges. The price is the same whether you are a AAA member or not. Some credit card companies or travel insurance plans may reimburse the cost, so check your policy if you have one.

How long the IDP is valid and when to renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If your IDP expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it outside the United States — you must return home and explore for a new one through AAA.

Plan ahead if you are taking a long trip or moving abroad temporarily. If your trip spans more than one year, you will need to renew your IDP before you leave. You can order a new one at any time; there is no waiting period between expiration and renewal.

IDP versus other documents for driving abroad

An International Driving Permit is not the same as a foreign driver's license. It is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. license. Some countries require an IDP; others do not. Before you travel, check the driving requirements for your destination country — your rental car company or the country's embassy website can tell you whether an IDP is mandatory.

If you plan to stay abroad for more than a few months or move to another country permanently, you may need to obtain a driver's license from that country instead. An IDP is designed for short-term travel, not relocation. Some countries will not recognise an IDP if you are a resident.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my New York license is suspended or expired?

No. Your New York State driver's license must be valid and not suspended. If your license is expired, you must renew it at the DMV before AAA can issue an IDP. If your license is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get an IDP in New York?

No. You need a valid U.S. driver's license and a government-issued photo ID. Permanent residents, visa holders, and other non-citizens with a valid New York license can get an IDP. Your photo ID can be a passport from any country.

What if I lose my IDP while I'm traveling?

Contact AAA's emergency roadside information line or your country's U.S. embassy or consulate. You cannot replace an IDP abroad. If you need to drive and your IDP is lost, your U.S. driver's license alone may be accepted in some countries, but this varies. Check local driving laws before you assume it is valid.

Can I get an IDP if I have a commercial driver's license (CDL)?

Yes, but the IDP will only be valid for the class of vehicle your CDL permits. If your CDL is for Class A trucks, your IDP will reflect that restriction. You cannot use an IDP issued for a regular license to drive a commercial vehicle abroad.

How do I know if my destination country requires an IDP?

Check the U.S. State Department website for your destination country, or contact the country's embassy or consulate in New York. Your rental car company can also tell you whether an IDP is required. Some countries require it by law; others accept it but do not require it.