What AAA offers for international driving

AAA issues an International Driving Permit (IDP), a document that translates your US driver's license into ten languages and is recognized in over 150 countries. It is not a replacement for your US license — you must carry both together. AAA is one of two organizations in the United States authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs, and it is usually the faster and more convenient option than going through your local DMV.

The permit costs $20 and is valid for one or three years depending on which you choose. You can get one the same day you explore at most AAA locations, though some branches require an appointment. The process takes about 15 minutes if you have the right documents with you.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA issues International Driving Permits that translate your US license into ten languages and work in over 150 countries.
  • You need your valid US driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo to explore in person.
  • The permit costs $20 for one year or $30 for three years and is usually issued the same day at AAA branches.
  • You must carry both your US license and the IDP together when driving internationally — the permit alone is not valid.
  • Some AAA branches accept mail-in applications, though in-person is faster and more reliable.

Finding an AAA location near you

AAA has over 1,000 branches across the United States. The fastest way to find one is to visit AAA.com, click "Find a Local AAA Club," and enter your zip code. The search will show you branch locations, hours, and phone numbers. Call ahead before you go, because some branches handle IDPs by appointment only and others have limited hours for this service.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP at any AAA branch — membership is not required. However, members sometimes receive a small discount on the permit fee depending on their membership level. Ask when you call.

Documents you need to bring

Bring these three things to your AAA branch: your valid US driver's license, a valid passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo (2x2 inches). The photo must be recent — taken within the last six months — and show your face clearly against a plain background. You cannot use a photo from your phone or a screenshot.

If your passport has expired, it still works for the IDP process. Your driver's license must be current and not suspended. If you have changed your name since your license was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive, tell the staff you want an International Driving Permit. They will give you a form (Form DS-11 or similar, depending on your state) to fill out. The form asks for your name, address, license number, passport number, and the countries you plan to visit. You do not have to list specific countries — you can leave that blank.

The staff will verify your documents, take your photo if you did not bring one (though this costs extra), and process your process. They will ask whether you want the one-year or three-year permit. Most people choose one year for their first IDP. You will pay at this point, and the permit is usually printed and ready to take home within 15 minutes.

Mail-in applications if you cannot visit in person

Some AAA branches accept mail-in applications, though this is slower and carries more risk of lost documents. Call your local branch to ask if they offer this option. If they do, you will mail your completed form, copies of your license and passport, your photo, and a check or money order. Processing takes two to three weeks, and you have no way to track the process once it leaves your hands.

Mail-in is worth considering only if your branch is far away and you do not need the permit urgently. In-person is more reliable because staff can spot missing information on the spot and fix it when ready.

Using your IDP when you travel

The International Driving Permit is a translation of your US license, not a separate license. You must carry both documents together at all times when driving in another country. Some rental car companies require you to show the IDP when you pick up a car; others do not ask for it but it is still smart to have it. If you are stopped by police, present both your US license and your IDP.

The IDP is valid only while your US driver's license is valid. If your US license expires, your IDP expires at the same time, even if the IDP itself has years remaining. Keep both documents in a safe place while traveling — do not leave them in a rental car or hotel room.

What to do if you lose your IDP while traveling

If your IDP is lost or stolen abroad, contact the nearest US embassy or consulate. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide a letter confirming that you hold a valid US driver's license. This letter is sometimes enough to satisfy a rental car company or police officer, though it is not as strong as the actual permit. When you return to the US, visit an AAA branch to get a replacement IDP for the same $20 or $30 fee.

To avoid this situation, make a photocopy of both your US license and your IDP before you leave, and keep the copies separate from the originals. Some travelers also photograph both documents and email the images to themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car overseas?

Requirements vary by country and rental company. Some countries legally require it, others do not. Most major rental companies ask for it but will rent to you without it if you have your US license. Check with your rental company and the country's embassy website before you travel to be certain.

Can I get an IDP from the DMV instead of AAA?

Yes. The American Automobile Association and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two organizations authorized to issue IDPs in the US. AATA processes applications by mail only and takes longer. AAA is faster because most branches issue permits same-day in person.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid?

You choose one year or three years when you explore. The permit expires on the date you select, or when your US driver's license expires, whichever comes first. If your US license expires before your IDP does, you must renew your US license and get a new IDP.

What if my US driver's license is suspended or expired?

AAA will not issue an IDP if your US license is suspended. If your license is expired, most branches will still issue an IDP, but you should renew your US license first to avoid problems at borders or with rental companies.

Can I use an International Driving Permit in the United States?

No. The IDP is only for driving in other countries. In the US, you must carry your valid US driver's license. Police will not accept an IDP as proof of a valid license in any US state.