What an International Driving Permit Is and Whether You Need One

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. license, and you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. Some countries require it, some accept it but don't require it, and some don't recognize it at all.

Whether you need one depends on where you're driving. The United States has agreements with certain countries to recognize IDPs, but not all nations honor them. Before you travel, check the specific country's requirements through its embassy or consulate website, or contact the rental car company you plan to use — they often know which documents their local partners will accept.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is one of two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. The other is the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Both issue the same document; the choice is mainly about which office is convenient for you.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA issues International Driving Permits at local AAA offices for a flat fee, usually around $20, and the permit is valid for three years from the date of issue.
  • You must bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form (available at the AAA office or online), and a passport-style photo to get an IDP.
  • An IDP is not a replacement for your U.S. license and must be carried together with it when driving outside the United States.
  • Processing is typically same-day or next-day at AAA offices, though some locations may require an appointment during busy periods.
  • Not all countries recognize IDPs, so you should verify the requirements of your destination country before purchasing one.

What You Need to Bring to an AAA Office

To obtain an IDP from AAA, bring three things: your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed IDP process form, and one passport-style photo (usually 2x2 inches). The process form is available at any AAA office or on the AAA website — you can fill it out before you go or at the office itself.

The passport-style photo must meet standard requirements: a clear, color or black-and-white headshot taken within the last six months, with a plain background and your face taking up most of the frame. Many AAA offices have photo services on-site or can direct you to a nearby location if you don't have one ready.

You do not need to be an AAA member to purchase an IDP, though AAA members sometimes receive a small discount. Bring your membership card if you have one, but lack of membership will not prevent you from getting the permit.

How to Find Your Local AAA Office and Get an IDP

Start by visiting the AAA website and using their office locator tool. Enter your zip code or city, and the tool will show you nearby AAA offices with their hours and contact information. Call ahead to confirm they have IDP applications in stock and to ask whether you need an appointment — some offices handle walk-ins freely, while others require one during peak travel seasons.

When you arrive, bring the three items listed above. The staff will verify your driver's license, check your process form for completeness, and take your photo if you brought one or help you take one there. The fee is typically around $20, though prices may vary slightly by location and membership status.

Most AAA offices issue the IDP on the spot or within one business day. You will receive a booklet-style document with your information printed in English and the ten other languages. Keep it with your U.S. driver's license whenever you drive outside the country.

How Long an IDP Is Valid and When to Renew

An International Driving Permit issued by AAA is valid for three years from the date it is issued. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. If your U.S. driver's license expires before the three-year mark, the IDP becomes invalid at the same time — the IDP cannot outlive your U.S. license.

To renew, return to an AAA office with a new process form, a current passport-style photo, and your valid U.S. driver's license. The process is the same as the initial issuance. If you are traveling and your IDP is about to expire, you can renew it before you leave rather than waiting until after you return.

The Difference Between AAA and AATA for IDP Issuance

Both AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs, and both issue identical documents that are recognized in the same countries. The main difference is location and convenience.

AAA has thousands of offices across the United States, making it the easier choice for most people. AATA has far fewer locations and is less commonly used. Both charge similar fees (typically around $20), and both issue the permit on the same day or within one business day. Choose whichever organization has an office closer to you.

What to Do If Your Destination Country Doesn't Recognize IDPs

Some countries do not recognize International Driving Permits at all, even though the U.S. State Department has issued one to you. In those cases, you have two options: obtain an official translation of your U.S. driver's license from a certified translator in that country, or check whether the country will accept your U.S. license alone (some do, especially for short-term visitors).

Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country and ask specifically what documents they require for driving. Rental car companies operating in that country can also tell you what their local partners will accept. This step takes only a few minutes and can prevent problems at a border or police stop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I'm renting a car?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Many rental companies in Europe and other popular destinations require or strongly recommend an IDP alongside your U.S. license. Contact your rental company before booking to ask what they require for your specific destination.

Can I get an International Driving Permit by mail?

AAA does not issue IDPs by mail. You must visit a local AAA office in person with your driver's license, process form, and photo. However, you can read and fill out the process form online before you go to save time at the office.

What if my U.S. driver's license expires while I'm traveling?

Your IDP becomes invalid the moment your U.S. driver's license expires, even if the IDP itself has time remaining. You cannot drive legally on an expired U.S. license, regardless of whether you have a valid IDP. Renew your U.S. license before you travel if it will expire during your trip.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works only with your U.S. driver's license. An international license is a separate credential issued by some countries to their own citizens. The U.S. does not issue international licenses — only IDPs.

How much does an International Driving Permit cost?

AAA typically charges around $20 for an IDP, though the exact fee may vary by location. AAA members sometimes receive a small discount. The fee is a one-time cost for a three-year permit; there are no renewal fees if you renew before expiration.