You cannot get a real international driving permit entirely online

An International Driving Permit (IDP) requires an in-person visit to a specific office — you cannot complete the entire process on a website. However, you can prepare most of your paperwork online, and some organizations let you start your request through their website before finishing in person.

The confusion happens because the term "international driving permit" actually refers to a physical document issued by your home country's automobile association, not by any international body. In the United States, only two organizations are authorized to issue them: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Neither one issues permits by mail or online alone.

What you can do online is gather information about requirements, find the nearest office, and sometimes fill out a form ahead of time. But you must appear in person with your valid driver's license, passport, and a passport-style photo to receive the actual permit.

Key Takeaways

  • Only AAA and AATA are authorized to issue International Driving Permits in the United States, and both require an in-person visit.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a valid passport, and a passport-style photo (2x2 inches) to receive a permit.
  • AAA and AATA offices are located in most U.S. cities, and you can find your nearest location and check hours on their websites.
  • The permit costs between $15 and $20 and is valid for one year from the date of issue.
  • Some travel websites and third-party services claim to issue international permits online, but these are not recognized by most countries and are not legitimate U.S. government documents.

What an International Driving Permit actually is

An International Driving Permit is a translation of your U.S. driver's license into ten languages — French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Polish, Russian, and Japanese. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state driver's license. You must carry both documents together when driving in another country.

The permit is recognized in more than 150 countries as proof that your U.S. license is valid. Some countries require it; others accept it as helpful documentation. 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 you receive it, or until your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first. If your license expires before the year is up, the permit expires with it.

Where to get a permit in person

The American Automobile Association (AAA) has the most locations. If you are a AAA member, you can visit any AAA office in the United States and request a permit on the spot. Non-members can also request one, though some offices charge a small additional fee. You can find your nearest AAA office and check its hours on the AAA website by entering your zip code.

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) has fewer locations but serves the same purpose. AATA offices are less common than AAA offices, but you can search for one near you on the AATA website. Both organizations issue the same permit and follow the same requirements.

Processing is usually when ready or takes only a few minutes. You walk in with your documents, pay the fee, and leave with the permit in hand. No appointment is required at most locations, but calling ahead is wise during busy times.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license — it must not be expired. Bring your valid passport or passport card. Bring one passport-style photo that is 2 inches by 2 inches, in color or black and white. The photo must show your face clearly and be taken within the last six months.

Some AAA offices accept photos taken on the spot if you do not have one, though this service is not available everywhere. Call your local office beforehand if you are unsure whether they offer this.

You do not need to bring your Social Security number, but the office will ask for it to verify your identity. Bring any identification document that has your Social Security number on it, or be prepared to state it.

Cost and how long it lasts

The permit costs $15 to $20 depending on the issuing organization and your location. AAA members sometimes receive a small discount. This is a one-time fee for a one-year permit.

The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. If you need a new one after it expires, you must return to an AAA or AATA office and pay the fee again. If your U.S. driver's license expires before the year is up, your permit expires at the same time.

Scams and fake online permits

Several websites claim to issue international driving permits online for $50 to $200. These are not legitimate. The U.S. government does not issue permits online, and no private company can issue a document that is recognized by foreign governments as proof of a valid U.S. license.

If you purchase a permit from one of these sites, you will receive a document that looks official but will not be accepted by rental car companies, police, or border officials in most countries. You may face fines or legal trouble if you try to use a fake permit while driving abroad.

Stick to AAA or AATA. Both are legitimate, authorized, and inexpensive. The small cost and short trip to an office is worth avoiding the risk of carrying a document that is not recognized.

What to do if you cannot visit an office in person

If you live outside the United States or cannot reach an AAA or AATA office before your trip, you have limited options. Some U.S. embassies and consulates abroad can direct you to an authorized issuer in that country, but they do not issue permits themselves. Contact the embassy or consulate in the country where you will be traveling and ask whether an IDP is required and where to obtain one.

If you are traveling soon and cannot get to an office, your U.S. driver's license alone may be sufficient in many countries. Check the specific country's requirements on its government tourism or transportation website. Some countries accept a U.S. license without an IDP; others require one. Knowing this before you travel prevents problems at a rental counter or with police.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my international driving permit online?

No. You must visit an AAA or AATA office in person to renew. Bring the same documents as you would for a new permit: your valid driver's license, passport, and a 2x2 passport photo. The process takes a few minutes and costs $15 to $20.

Do I need an international driving permit if I am renting a car abroad?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Many countries and rental companies accept a U.S. driver's license alone. Others require an IDP. Check with your rental company and the country's transportation authority before you travel. Having an IDP is inexpensive insurance and avoids problems at the rental counter.

What if my passport photo does not meet the requirements?

Most AAA and AATA offices will reject a photo that does not meet the 2x2 inch size or is older than six months. Some offices can take a photo for you on the spot for a small fee. Call ahead to ask whether your local office offers this service.

Is an international driving permit the same as an international license?

No. An international driving permit is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. license. An international license is a separate license issued by another country. You cannot get a license from another country unless you are a resident of that country and meet its requirements.

What happens if I lose my international driving permit while traveling?

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and explain the situation. They can advise you on whether you can continue driving with your U.S. license alone, or whether you need to obtain a replacement permit in that country. Keep a photo or photocopy of your permit with you separately from the original.