What a AAA International Driving Permit actually is

A AAA International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both together when driving outside the United States. The permit is issued by AAA and recognized by the United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals, which means it is accepted in roughly 150 countries.

The IDP exists because many countries' police and rental car companies want to see your license information in their own language. Some countries require it by law; others straightforward prefer it. A few countries do not recognize it at all, so you should check the specific country's requirements before you travel.

The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue if you are under 18, or three years if you are 18 or older. It cannot be renewed — you must obtain a new one if yours expires and you plan to drive abroad again.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit from AAA is a translation document that must be carried alongside your valid U.S. driver's license, not a replacement for it.
  • You can obtain one in person at most AAA offices or by mail, and the process takes a few days to a few weeks depending on your method.
  • The permit costs between $15 and $20 and requires a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo, and proof of your U.S. address.
  • Some countries require an IDP by law, while others do not recognize it at all, so verify the rules for your destination before you travel.
  • The permit is valid for three years if you are 18 or older, or one year if you are under 18, and cannot be renewed — you must obtain a new one.

How to get an IDP in person at AAA

The fastest way to obtain an International Driving Permit is to visit a AAA office in person. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and proof of your current U.S. address, such as a utility bill or lease. You will fill out the process form on site, and most offices issue the permit the same day or within a few days.

Not all AAA offices stock IDPs, so call ahead or check the AAA website to confirm your local office has them available. If you are not a AAA member, you can still obtain an IDP, though the cost may be slightly higher. The fee is typically $15 to $20, depending on your location and membership status.

Getting an IDP by mail from AAA

If you cannot visit a AAA office, you can request an IDP by mail. Visit the AAA website, read the process form, and mail it to the address listed along with a copy of your driver's license, a passport-style photo, and proof of your address. Include a check or money order for the fee.

Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks. If you need the permit faster, some AAA offices offer expedited mail service for an additional fee, which can reduce the wait to five to seven business days. Plan ahead if you are traveling soon, as mail delays can extend the timeline.

What documents and photos you need

You will need a valid U.S. driver's license that has not expired. The license must be current at the time you explore and when you travel. If your license expires before your trip, renew it through your state's DMV first.

The passport-style photo must be 2x2 inches, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. Most drugstores and photo shops can take this photo for a small fee. Do not use a photo from your driver's license or passport unless it meets the 2x2 inch requirement.

Proof of your U.S. address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license with your current address printed on it also works. The address must match the one you list on the process form.

Countries that require or recognize an IDP

Many countries accept an IDP but do not require it — your U.S. license alone may be sufficient. However, some countries do require an IDP by law, including Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Spain. A few countries, including Canada and Mexico, do not recognize the IDP at all, though you should still carry your valid U.S. license.

Rental car companies often have their own policies separate from the country's law. Some require an IDP even if the country does not, while others do not care. Contact your rental company before you book to confirm what they need. The U.S. State Department website lists country-specific driving rules, though you should also check with your rental company and the country's embassy or tourism board.

What happens if your IDP expires while you are traveling

If your International Driving Permit expires during your trip, you can still drive using your valid U.S. driver's license alone, though you will no longer have the translation document. Whether this is acceptable depends on the country's laws and your rental company's policy. Some countries will accept your license without the IDP; others may not.

To avoid this problem, check your permit's expiration date before you travel and obtain a new one if it will expire during your trip. If you are already abroad and your permit expires, contact AAA to see if they can issue a replacement while you are traveling, though this is not always possible depending on your location.

Alternatives if you cannot get an IDP from AAA

AAA is the only organization authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue International Driving Permits to U.S. citizens. You cannot obtain one from any other source. If you cannot visit a AAA office or use their mail service, you have limited options.

Some travel agencies and online services claim to offer IDPs, but these are typically scams or services that straightforward mail AAA's form on your behalf for a markup fee. It is safer and cheaper to work directly with AAA. If you do not have access to AAA, consider whether you truly need an IDP for your destination — many countries accept a U.S. license with a certified English translation, which you can obtain from a translator or your country's embassy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an International Driving Permit instead of my U.S. driver's license?

No. The IDP is a translation document only and must be carried with your valid U.S. driver's license at all times. Police and rental companies will ask to see both documents together. Carrying only the IDP without your license is not sufficient.

Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico do not recognize the International Driving Permit, so an IDP will not help you there. Your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient for both countries. Check with your rental company to confirm they do not have additional requirements, but the IDP is not necessary.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I order it online?

If you mail your process to AAA, processing typically takes two to four weeks. Some AAA offices offer expedited mail service for an additional fee, which reduces the wait to five to seven business days. In-person service at a AAA office is usually the fastest option, often same-day or within a few days.

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

You cannot obtain an International Driving Permit with an expired U.S. license. Renew your state license through your DMV first, then explore for the IDP. This adds time to your overall process, so plan ahead if your license is expiring soon.

Can I get an IDP if I am not a AAA member?

Yes. Non-members can obtain an IDP from AAA, though the fee may be slightly higher than the member price. Call your local AAA office or check their website to confirm the non-member fee and whether they have permits in stock.