What an AAA International Driving Permit is and who needs one

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 you must carry both together when you drive abroad. Some countries require it, some accept it but do not require it, and some do not recognize it at all.

AAA issues these permits in the United States. The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue, or until your U.S. license expires, whichever comes first. If you plan to drive in another country, check that country's specific rules before you go — some nations will not let you rent a car or drive legally without one, while others will accept your U.S. license alone.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation of your U.S. license into ten languages and must be carried with your actual license when driving abroad.
  • AAA issues permits in person at local AAA offices for a one-time fee, and the permit is valid for one year or until your U.S. license expires.
  • You need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and a passport-style photo to obtain one.
  • Different countries have different rules about whether an IDP is required, so you should check your destination's driving rules before traveling.
  • The permit does not change your driving rights or insurance coverage — it only translates your existing license information.

What you need to bring to AAA

To get an International Driving Permit from AAA, you must bring three things in person to a local AAA office: a valid U.S. driver's license, proof of citizenship (a passport or passport card), and a passport-style photo. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background.

You cannot obtain an IDP by mail or online through AAA. You must visit an office in your state and complete the transaction there. If you do not have a current passport or passport card, you can use a certified copy of your birth certificate or naturalization papers instead, though a passport is faster.

How to find your local AAA office and the cost

AAA has offices in most U.S. states, though not all states have AAA membership available. To find the office nearest you, visit AAA's website and use their office locator tool, or call AAA customer service. Hours vary by location, so call ahead or check online before you go.

The fee for an International Driving Permit through AAA is typically around $20, though the exact amount may vary slightly by state or region. Some AAA members receive a small discount. You pay at the time you visit the office, and the permit is issued on the spot or within a few days.

How long the permit lasts and when to renew

An International Driving Permit issued by AAA is valid for one year from the date it is issued, or until your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever happens first. If your U.S. license expires in six months, your IDP will also expire in six months, even though the permit itself could theoretically last a year.

To renew, you return to an AAA office with the same documents you brought the first time: a valid U.S. license, proof of citizenship, and a new passport-style photo. You cannot renew by mail. If you need a permit for a trip that is coming up soon, plan to visit the office at least a week in advance to avoid any delays.

What the permit does and does not do

An International Driving Permit translates the information on your U.S. license — your name, address, license number, and restrictions — into ten languages. It does not change your driving rights, add any new rights, or override local traffic laws in the country you are visiting. You are still bound by that country's speed limits, road rules, and traffic enforcement.

The permit also does not affect your car insurance. Your U.S. auto insurance policy does not automatically cover you abroad, and an IDP does not change that. Before you travel, contact your insurance company to ask whether your coverage extends to the country you are visiting, or whether you need to purchase temporary international coverage. Some rental car companies also require an IDP before they will rent to you, so check with the rental company when you book.

Countries that require or recommend an International Driving Permit

Many European countries — including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom — recommend or require an International Driving Permit. Some Latin American countries, parts of Asia, and the Middle East also require one. However, the rules change, and some countries accept a U.S. license with an official English translation instead of an IDP.

The safest approach is to contact the embassy or tourism board of the country you plan to visit and ask directly what documents you need to drive legally. You can also ask your car rental company, since they often know the current rules better than government websites do. Having an IDP costs little and takes one office visit, so if you are unsure, getting one before you leave is simpler than trying to obtain one while traveling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in another country with just my U.S. license and no International Driving Permit?

It depends on the country. Some accept a U.S. license alone, some require an IDP, and some require both plus an official translation. Check with your destination country's embassy or your rental car company before you travel. Driving without the required documents can result in fines or legal trouble.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a new IDP, but they can provide guidance on whether you can continue driving with your U.S. license alone, or whether you need to stop driving until you return home. Some countries will accept a U.S. license if you can show proof that you had an IDP when you entered.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I am only renting a car for a day trip?

Check with the rental car company first. Some require an IDP regardless of trip length, while others do not. The country's laws also matter — even a short trip may require one by law. It is worth asking before you book, since getting an IDP takes only one office visit.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document that works only with your U.S. license. An international license is a separate license issued by another country, which you would need if you moved abroad or became a resident. For travel, you need an IDP, not an international license.