What an AAA International Driving Permit Actually Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by AAA 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 documents together when driving abroad. The IDP tells police, rental car companies, and border officials in other countries that your U.S. license is valid, because many countries do not recognize American licenses without this translation.

AAA is one of two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. The other is the American Automobile Association's competitor, but AAA is the most widely available option with physical offices in most states. The permit costs around $20 and is valid for three years from the date of issue.

You need an IDP only if you plan to drive in another country. If you are renting a car, the rental company will often ask for one at pickup. Some countries legally require it; others do not, but having one eliminates confusion at checkpoints or if you are stopped by police.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation document that must be carried with your valid U.S. driver's license when driving outside the country.
  • AAA issues IDPs in person at most local AAA offices for approximately $20, and the permit is valid for three years.
  • You need a current, valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and a passport-sized photo to obtain an IDP from AAA.
  • The IDP process at AAA typically takes 15 to 30 minutes and does not require an appointment at most locations, though calling ahead is recommended.

What Documents You Need to Bring to AAA

Bring your current, valid U.S. driver's license — expired licenses will not work. You also need a passport or U.S. passport card as proof of citizenship. AAA will not accept a birth certificate, state ID, or other forms of identification in place of a passport document.

You will need one passport-sized photo, which is 2 inches by 2 inches. You can bring a photo you already have, or many AAA offices have photo services on-site or can direct you to a nearby location that takes them. The photo must be in color and taken within the last six months.

Bring cash or a debit card — AAA offices accept both, though some locations may have payment restrictions, so calling ahead is wise. You do not need to bring your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, or any other driving documents.

How to Find Your Nearest AAA Office and Get an IDP

Visit AAA.com and use the "Find a Local Office" tool on the homepage. Enter your zip code or city, and the site will show you the nearest AAA offices with their hours and phone numbers. Not every AAA office issues IDPs, so call ahead to confirm the location you plan to visit offers this service.

Walk in during business hours with your documents. Most AAA offices do not require an appointment for IDP issuance, but calling first prevents a wasted trip if the office is temporarily closed or unusually busy. The process takes 15 to 30 minutes from start to finish.

The staff will verify your documents, take your photo if you did not bring one, and print your IDP on the spot. You will receive the permit when ready and can leave with both your license and IDP in hand. There is no waiting period or mailing involved.

What Happens If You Are Not an AAA Member

You do not need to be an AAA member to obtain an International Driving Permit. Non-members can walk into any AAA office that issues IDPs and purchase one for the same price as members. AAA does not charge a membership fee to issue an IDP to non-members.

If you are not a member and plan to use AAA services regularly — roadside information, travel discounts, or insurance products — you may want to join. Membership costs vary by state and membership tier, but IDP issuance is available to everyone regardless of membership status.

How Long Your IDP Lasts and When to Renew

Your International Driving Permit is valid for three years from the date it is issued. After three years, you will need to obtain a new one if you plan to drive abroad again. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit.

You cannot renew an IDP — you must explore for a new one. Return to an AAA office with your documents and pay the fee again. If your U.S. driver's license expires before your IDP does, the IDP becomes invalid, so renew your state license first if needed.

Some countries have their own rules about how old an IDP can be. A few nations will not accept an IDP that is more than one year old, so check the specific country's requirements before your trip. The U.S. State Department website lists country-by-country driving rules.

What to Do If You Lose Your IDP While Traveling

If you lose your IDP abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license. Some rental car companies and police will accept this letter in place of the physical IDP, though it is not may provide.

To prevent this problem, make a photocopy of your IDP and store it separately from the original. Take a photo of both your IDP and your driver's license on your phone before you leave. If you lose the original, you have proof of what it says.

When you return to the United States, you can obtain a replacement IDP at any AAA office by paying the fee again and bringing your documents. There is no penalty for a lost permit — you straightforward pay for a new one.

Alternatives If You Cannot Reach an AAA Office

The only other organization authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue International Driving Permits is the American Automobile Association's affiliate in some regions. However, AAA is the primary and most accessible issuer nationwide. If no AAA office is near you, check whether your state has a specific government office that issues IDPs — a few states do, though this is rare.

Some travel agencies and online services claim to issue IDPs, but these are not legitimate U.S. State Department documents. Only AAA and the other authorized issuer produce valid IDPs. Purchasing from any other source will leave you without a recognized permit.

If you are traveling soon and cannot reach an AAA office in time, contact the nearest AAA location by phone and ask about expedited service or whether they can mail an IDP to you. Some offices can arrange this, though it may cost extra.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Canada or Mexico?

Many rental car companies in Canada and Mexico request an IDP, though it is not always legally required. Having one eliminates confusion at the rental counter and with police if you are stopped. It is inexpensive and takes 30 minutes to obtain, so getting one before a trip to either country is practical.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my U.S. driver's license is suspended or expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be current and valid. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP. Renew your state license first, then visit AAA.

What if I do not have a passport or passport card?

AAA requires a passport or passport card as proof of citizenship. A birth certificate, state ID, or military ID will not work. You will need to obtain a passport or passport card from the U.S. State Department before you can get an IDP. This process takes several weeks, so plan ahead if you do not have one.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document only. An International License does not exist as a U.S. document. Some countries issue their own licenses to residents, but the U.S. does not. Your state driver's license plus the AAA IDP is all you need to drive legally in most countries.

Can I use an International Driving Permit to drive in all countries?

Most countries recognize an IDP, but a few do not. Before traveling, check the specific country's driving requirements on the U.S. State Department website or contact the country's embassy. Some nations require an International Driving Permit by law; others do not recognize it at all.