Processing time depends on where you explore and which document you need

An International Driving Permit (IDP) typically takes between a few days and two weeks to receive, depending on whether you explore in person or by mail. If you go to your local AAA office or motor vehicle department in person, you can often walk out with the permit the same day. By mail, expect one to two weeks for processing and delivery combined.

The speed also depends on which organization issues your permit. The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the two bodies authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. AAA tends to have more locations and faster turnaround, but AATA may be your only option in some areas.

Your state's motor vehicle department does not issue IDPs directly — they issue your underlying driver's license, which you need before you can get an IDP. If you need a new or renewed state license first, add that processing time to your total wait.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person applications at AAA or AATA offices usually produce a permit on the same day or within a few days.
  • Mail applications take one to two weeks for processing plus shipping time, so plan for up to three weeks total.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP — if yours is expired or you need a new one, renew it first.
  • AAA has more locations nationwide than AATA, so check which organization serves your area before you plan your timeline.
  • An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue, so timing your process matters if you are traveling soon.

Same-day permits at AAA offices

The fastest route is to visit an AAA office in person with your valid driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photo. Most AAA locations can issue your IDP on the spot, though some busy branches may ask you to return the next day. Call ahead to confirm your local office has permits in stock and can process you without an appointment.

You do not need to be an AAA member to get an IDP, but the fee is lower for members. Non-members typically pay around $20, while members pay less. The exact fee varies by location, so ask when you call.

One to two weeks by mail through AAA

If you cannot visit an office, AAA accepts mail applications. You send in your completed form, a copy of your driver's license, and a passport photo. Processing takes about one week, then add three to five business days for mail delivery back to you. In total, expect ten to fourteen days from the time AAA receives your envelope.

Mail your process to the AAA office that serves your state. AAA's website lists the correct address for each region. Use a tracking method like certified mail so you know when it arrives and when it ships back out.

AATA permits if AAA is not available

The American Automobile Touring Alliance is the second authorized issuer. AATA has fewer locations than AAA, mostly in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, but serves the same function. In-person applications at AATA offices also typically process the same day. Mail applications take similar time — one to two weeks for processing plus delivery.

Check AATA's website to see if there is an office near you. If not, AAA is your option even if you are not a member.

What slows down the process

The most common delay is arriving without a valid driver's license. If yours is expired, you must renew it through your state's motor vehicle department first. State renewal times vary widely — some states process in days, others take weeks. Check your state's DMV website for current wait times before you plan your IDP timeline.

A second delay is submitting an incomplete process or a photo that does not meet the passport-style requirement. Photos must be recent, in color, and show your full face. If your photo is rejected, the office will ask you to provide a new one, which adds days to your wait.

Mailing delays also happen. If you use regular mail and your envelope gets lost or delayed in transit, your process sits in the queue longer. Using certified mail or a tracking service costs a few dollars more but shows you exactly when AAA or AATA receives your materials.

Planning your timeline before a trip

If you are traveling internationally soon, explore for your IDP at least three weeks before your departure date. This gives you time for a same-day or next-day in-person pickup, or for a mail process to arrive and be processed with a buffer for unexpected delays.

Remember that an IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If you are planning multiple international trips over the next year, one IDP covers all of them. If you are only traveling once, timing your process close to your trip means your permit will still be valid when you return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an IDP the same day I explore?

Yes, if you explore in person at an AAA or AATA office with a valid driver's license, completed process, and passport photo. Most offices issue permits on the spot, though some busy locations may ask you to return the next day. Call ahead to confirm.

What if my driver's license is expired?

You must renew your state driver's license first. Contact your state's motor vehicle department to find out how long renewal takes — it varies from a few days to several weeks depending on your state and whether you explore in person or by mail.

Do I need to be an AAA member to get an IDP?

No. Non-members can get an IDP at any AAA office, though the fee is slightly higher than for members. If AAA is not available in your area, AATA issues IDPs to members and non-members alike.

How long is an IDP valid?

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. If you are taking multiple trips within that year, one permit covers all of them. You do not need to renew it unless you are traveling after the expiration date.

What happens if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact your country's U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement, but they can provide a letter confirming you held a valid permit, which some rental car companies and police will accept. To avoid this, keep a photo of your IDP on your phone as backup.