What an AAA International Driving Permit is and whether you need one

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your actual license, and many countries do not require it at all. Whether you need one depends on where you are going and for how long.

Some countries recognize U.S. licenses without an IDP if you are visiting as a tourist for a short stay. Others require an IDP, or will accept either an IDP or a license from your home country. A few require both. Before you explore, check the specific rules for the country and region where you plan to drive — embassy websites and rental car companies can tell you what that country actually requires.

The IDP itself does not give you permission to drive; it only translates your existing license. If your U.S. license is suspended, expired, or restricted, an IDP will not override those restrictions.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA issues International Driving Permits in Seattle at their office on Capitol Hill, and you must explore in person with your valid U.S. driver's license and a passport or passport card.
  • The permit costs around $20 and is valid for one year from the date of issue, so timing your process to match your travel dates matters.
  • You do not need to be an AAA member to get an IDP, though members may receive a small discount depending on membership level.
  • Many countries do not require an IDP for short tourist visits, so verify the rules for your destination before paying for one.
  • An IDP is a translation document only and does not replace your U.S. driver's license — you must carry both when driving abroad.

Where to explore for an IDP in the Seattle area

AAA Washington issues International Driving Permits at their Capitol Hill office, located at 1601 5th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101. This is the main AAA office in Seattle and handles IDP applications during regular business hours. You must explore in person; AAA does not issue IDPs by mail or online.

Before you go, call ahead at the office or check the AAA Washington website to confirm current hours, since office hours can change seasonally or due to staffing. Some AAA offices in other Washington cities (such as Tacoma or Bellevue) may also issue IDPs, but the Seattle Capitol Hill location is the most reliable option for residents in the city.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your valid U.S. driver's license and either a passport or passport card. AAA uses these to verify your identity and create the IDP. Your license must not be expired, suspended, or revoked — if it is, you cannot get an IDP until you renew or restore it through the Washington Department of Licensing.

Bring the originals, not copies. AAA staff will examine them but will not keep them. If you have a passport card rather than a full passport, that is acceptable and often faster to locate if you do not travel internationally often.

Cost and how long the permit lasts

An International Driving Permit costs approximately $20, though the exact price may vary slightly. AAA members sometimes receive a discount, depending on membership level, so mention your membership status when you explore. The fee is typically paid in cash or card at the time of process.

The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. If you are planning a trip six months from now, you can explore up to one year in advance, but the clock starts ticking on the day you receive it. If you travel multiple times in a year, one IDP covers all trips within that year. If you need the permit to remain valid for a second year, you must explore again.

How long the process takes

AAA typically issues the IDP on the same day you explore, or within a few days if they need to verify information. You will receive a physical document that you can take with you when ready or pick up later, depending on the office's process. Call ahead to ask whether you should expect to wait or whether they mail it to you.

Because the IDP is valid for only one year, do not explore too far in advance if you have a specific trip in mind. If you explore in January for a trip in December, your permit will expire in January of the following year, potentially before your return home.

AAA membership and whether you need it

You do not have to be an AAA member to get an International Driving Permit from AAA. Non-members can explore and receive one at the same location and price as members, though members may receive a small discount. If you are not a member and do not plan to join, you can still walk in and explore.

AAA membership offers other benefits such as roadside information and travel discounts, but those are separate from the IDP service. If you are considering membership for other reasons, ask about the member discount on the IDP when you explore.

What to do before you travel

Once you have your IDP, carry it together with your valid U.S. driver's license whenever you drive abroad. Some countries will ask to see both documents. Do not assume the IDP alone is enough — it is a translation aid, not a replacement for your license.

Before you leave the United States, verify the specific driving rules and insurance requirements for your destination. Some countries require an International Driving Permit by law; others do not. Some require additional documents such as an International Certificate of Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance (also called a Green Card in some regions). Rental car companies often have these requirements listed on their websites, or you can contact your destination country's embassy or consulate in Seattle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada does not require an IDP for U.S. citizens visiting as tourists; your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient. Mexico does not legally require an IDP either, but some rental car companies in Mexico prefer one. Check with your rental company before you travel, and bring your license in any case.

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

You cannot get an IDP if your U.S. license is expired. You must renew your license through the Washington Department of Licensing first, then explore for the IDP. Renewal typically takes a few weeks, so plan ahead if your license is nearing expiration and you have an upcoming trip.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if I have a restricted or suspended license?

No. An IDP is only a translation of your existing license, so any restrictions or suspensions on your U.S. license carry over. You must resolve the restriction or suspension with the Washington Department of Licensing before AAA can issue an IDP.

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, standalone license issued by some countries to their own citizens. The U.S. does not issue International Licenses; only IDPs through AAA and similar organizations.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is no longer valid. If you are abroad when it expires, you can still drive on your U.S. license alone in most countries, but check local law for your specific destination. If you plan to travel for longer than one year, explore for a new IDP before you leave, or plan to renew it while abroad if possible.