An International Driving Permit costs between $15 and $30 in the United States, depending on which organization issues it
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a replacement for your regular driver's license — it is a translation document that works alongside it. When you drive in another country, you carry both your U.S. license and the IDP together. The permit itself is inexpensive, but the total cost depends on which of two authorized U.S. organizations you use and whether you need it rushed.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. AAA charges $20 for a permit valid for one year, or $30 for a three-year permit. AATA charges $15 for a one-year permit and $25 for three years. Neither organization charges a processing fee on top of the permit price itself, though AAA may charge a small fee if you mail in your process rather than visit in person.
You will also need a valid U.S. driver's license and a passport-style photo. If you do not have a recent photo that meets the requirements, you may need to pay for one separately — typically $10 to $15 at a pharmacy or photo service. Some AAA locations can take the photo for you on the spot.
Key Takeaways
- AAA charges $20 for a one-year International Driving Permit or $30 for three years; AATA charges $15 for one year or $25 for three years.
- You must bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photo to either organization.
- AAA has thousands of locations nationwide and can often issue the permit the same day; AATA requires mail-in applications and takes one to two weeks.
- An International Driving Permit is valid only when carried together with your original U.S. driver's license.
- The permit is not required in all countries — check your destination's rules before purchasing, as some nations do not recognize it.
Where to buy and how long it takes
AAA locations are the fastest option if you are a member. You can walk into most AAA offices, complete the process on the spot, provide your photo, and receive the permit the same day. If you are not an AAA member, you can still purchase an IDP at AAA locations, though you may pay a small additional fee (usually $5 to $10) or be asked to join. AAA has over 1,000 locations across the country, so finding one near you is usually straightforward through their website.
AATA requires a mail-in process. You fill out the form, include a check or money order, attach your photo and a photocopy of your driver's license, and mail everything to their office in New York. Processing takes one to two weeks, plus mail time in both directions. This route is cheaper but slower, so plan ahead if you are using AATA.
If you need the permit urgently and are near an AAA location, that is your only real option for same-day or next-day service. AATA does not offer expedited processing.
What documents you need to bring or send
For an AAA visit, bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed IDP process form (which AAA provides), and a passport-style photo. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. Most AAA locations can take this photo for you if you do not have one ready.
For AATA mail-in service, you need the same items plus a photocopy of your driver's license (front and back) and payment by check or money order. Do not send cash. AATA's website has the process form ready to read and print.
Both organizations require you to sign the process in person (AAA) or in front of a notary (AATA). If you are using AATA, you can have a notary sign off on your process at a bank or library, usually for free or a small fee.
How long an International Driving Permit stays valid
An IDP issued by either AAA or AATA is valid for one year or three years, depending on which you purchase. The one-year permit is cheaper but requires you to buy a new one if you travel internationally again within a few years. The three-year permit costs more upfront but covers multiple trips.
The permit expires on the date printed on it, regardless of whether your U.S. driver's license expires. You cannot renew an IDP — you must purchase a new one when it expires. If your U.S. license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid, so keep both documents current.
Some countries have their own rules about how old an IDP can be when you arrive. A few nations require the permit to have been issued within the past year, even if it is technically still valid. Check with your destination country's embassy or tourism board before you travel to confirm their specific requirements.
Whether you actually need an International Driving Permit
Not every country requires or recognizes an IDP. Many popular destinations — including Canada, Mexico, Australia, and most of Western Europe — accept a valid U.S. driver's license on its own. Some countries require an IDP only if your license is not in English or if you plan to stay longer than a certain period.
Before you buy, check the specific rules for your destination. The U.S. State Department website lists country-by-country requirements, and your rental car company can also tell you whether an IDP is needed. Buying an IDP you do not need wastes money, but arriving without one when it is required can result in fines or the inability to rent a vehicle.
If you are renting a car, the rental company's website usually states whether an IDP is required. Some rental companies will not rent to you without one, even if the country does not legally require it — this is a company policy, not a law. Call ahead to confirm.
Comparing AAA and AATA side by side
| Factor | AAA | AATA |
|---|---|---|
| One-year permit cost | $20 | $15 |
| Three-year permit cost | $30 | $25 |
| Processing time | Same day (in-person) | 1–2 weeks (mail-in) |
| Locations | 1,000+ across U.S. | Mail-in only |
| Photo service | Available at most locations | You must provide your own |
| Membership required | No, but members may get discounts | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. license is suspended or expired?
No. Both AAA and AATA require a valid, current U.S. driver's license. If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP until your license is restored and valid again. Renew your license first, then explore for the permit.
Do I need a passport to get an International Driving Permit?
You do not need a passport to obtain the IDP itself, but you will need a passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). You will need an actual passport to travel internationally, but that is separate from the IDP process. Bring your driver's license and photo to AAA or AATA, not your passport.
What happens if my International Driving Permit expires while I am traveling?
An expired IDP is no longer valid, even if you are still abroad. If your permit expires during your trip, you can only drive on your U.S. license alone — and only in countries that accept it without an IDP. To avoid this, purchase the three-year permit if you plan multiple international trips, or check your permit's expiration date before you leave.
Can I use an International Driving Permit to drive in all 50 U.S. states?
An IDP is not for driving in the United States. It is only for driving in other countries. In the U.S., your regular state driver's license is what you need. An IDP has no legal standing within the United States.
Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?
No. An international license does not exist as a single document. An IDP is a translation of your U.S. license into multiple languages and is recognized in countries that have signed the United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals. You must carry both your U.S. license and the IDP together when driving abroad.