What AAA's International Driving Permit Actually Does

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 some countries do not recognize it at all. AAA issues these permits in the United States, and they cost $20 for a three-year permit or $30 for a five-year permit.

The permit itself is a small booklet. When you rent a car or drive in another country, you carry both your U.S. license and the IDP together. Some car rental companies require it; others do not. Some countries treat it as optional; others ignore it entirely. Before you travel, contact your rental company and check the specific country's driving rules — the IDP is not a substitute for knowing local traffic laws or obtaining the right insurance.

AAA can issue the permit on the same day you explore, but only at a physical AAA office. You cannot get one by mail or online through AAA's website.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA issues International Driving Permits at its local offices for $20 (three years) or $30 (five years), and you can receive it the same day you explore.
  • You must bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photo (2x2 inches) to the AAA office.
  • The IDP is only valid when carried together with your U.S. license and does not replace it in any country.
  • Not all countries recognize the IDP, and not all car rental companies require it, so check your destination's requirements before you travel.
  • AAA membership is not required to obtain an IDP, though members may receive a small discount.

What You Need to Bring to the AAA Office

Bring your current, valid U.S. driver's license. It must not be expired, and it must be a physical card — a digital license on your phone does not work. You also need a passport-style photograph, 2x2 inches, in color or black and white. Most AAA offices have a photo booth on-site if you do not have one ready.

You will fill out an process form at the office — AAA staff can help you complete it. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and driver's license number. You do not need to bring a passport, though having one with you can speed up the process if the staff need to verify your identity.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP. AAA members sometimes receive a small discount on the permit fee, but the discount varies by region and membership level. Ask the staff at your local office whether a discount applies to you.

How to Find Your Nearest AAA Office and What to Expect

Go to AAA.com and use the "Find a Local Office" tool, or call AAA's main line at 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357). Tell them you want to get an International Driving Permit and ask which offices near you issue them same-day. Not every AAA office issues permits on-site — some smaller branches refer you to a larger regional office.

When you arrive, expect to spend 10 to 15 minutes at the counter. The staff will verify your license, take your photo if you need one, and process your process. You will pay the fee ($20 or $30) at that time. The permit is printed and ready to take home the same day in most cases, though a few offices may mail it to you if they are unusually busy.

Call ahead if you can. Some offices get crowded during lunch hours or on weekends, and a quick call lets you know the current wait time. If you are traveling soon and need the permit urgently, calling first ensures the office has the materials in stock.

Understanding the Three-Year vs. Five-Year Permit

The three-year permit costs $20 and is valid for three years from the date of issue. The five-year permit costs $30 and is valid for five years. Both are valid only while your U.S. driver's license is also valid — if your license expires before the permit does, the permit becomes invalid.

Choose based on how often you travel internationally. If you travel every year or two, the five-year permit spreads the cost across more trips. If you travel rarely or your license will expire soon anyway, the three-year permit is cheaper upfront. Remember that you can always get a new permit when the old one expires.

Countries That Recognize the IDP and Those That Do Not

Most countries in Europe, Latin America, and parts of Asia recognize the IDP as a valid translation of your U.S. license. However, some major destinations do not. The United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada do not recognize the IDP — they accept only your valid U.S. driver's license. Japan, South Korea, and several other Asian countries have their own separate permit systems and do not recognize the IDP either.

Before you book a rental car, check the rental company's website or call them directly. Tell them your destination and ask whether they require an IDP. Many companies require it in Europe but not in Canada or Australia. Some companies require it for certain car classes (like luxury vehicles) but not for standard rentals. The rental company's requirements matter more than the country's law — if they will not rent to you without an IDP, you need one.

You can also contact your destination country's tourism board or embassy to ask about driving requirements. Their websites usually have a section on driving rules for visitors.

What Happens If You Drive Without an IDP in a Country That Requires It

If you are stopped by police and the country requires an IDP but you do not have one, you may face a fine. The amount varies by country — some charge $50 to $100, others charge more. In some cases, police may impound your rental car until you produce the permit or pay the fine.

A rental car company may also refuse to rent to you if you cannot show an IDP when they require one. If you arrive at the rental counter without it, you may have to cancel your reservation or pay extra for the company to arrange one for you (which is usually more expensive than getting it from AAA beforehand).

The safest approach is to get the IDP before you leave the United States if there is any chance you will need it. It costs $20 to $30 and takes one office visit. The cost of a fine or a cancelled rental is much higher.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an AAA membership to get an International Driving Permit?

No. AAA issues permits to members and non-members alike. Members may receive a small discount depending on their membership level and region, but the discount is optional — you can get the permit at the standard price whether you are a member or not.

Can I get an International Driving Permit by mail or online?

No. AAA issues permits only in person at its local offices. You must visit an office, bring your license and photo, and complete the process on-site. The permit is ready the same day in most cases.

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

You cannot get an IDP with an expired license. Your U.S. license must be valid and current. If your license has expired, renew it at your state's DMV before visiting AAA.

Will the IDP work if I am driving in the United States?

No. The IDP is for international travel only. In the United States, your U.S. driver's license is the only document you need. Police and rental companies in the U.S. do not recognize or require the IDP.

How long does the International Driving Permit last?

The three-year permit is valid for three years from the date of issue; the five-year permit is valid for five years. However, if your U.S. driver's license expires before the permit does, the permit becomes invalid. You cannot renew just the permit — you must get a new one if you need it after your license expires.