What AAA Actually Issues for Driving Abroad

AAA does not issue international driver's licenses. What AAA does issue is an International Driving Permit (IDP), which is a different document that translates your existing U.S. driver's license into multiple languages. An IDP is not a license itself — it is a companion document that works alongside your valid U.S. driver's license when you rent a car or drive in another country.

The distinction matters because you cannot drive anywhere with only an IDP. You must carry both your U.S. driver's license and the IDP together. The IDP straightforward makes your license information readable to police, rental companies, and insurance agents in countries where English is not the primary language.

AAA is one of two organizations in the United States authorized to issue IDPs. The other is the American Automobile Association's competitor organization, which also holds this authority. Both issue the same document under the same international agreement, so it does not matter which one you use.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA issues an International Driving Permit (IDP), which translates your U.S. driver's license into multiple languages but is not a license itself.
  • You must carry your valid U.S. driver's license and the IDP together when driving abroad — the IDP alone is not sufficient.
  • The IDP process takes about 15 minutes in person at an AAA office and costs roughly $20, though prices vary by location.
  • You will need your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-sized photo, and proof of your current address to obtain an IDP from AAA.
  • Not all countries require or recognize an IDP, so check your destination country's rules before you travel.

What You Need to Bring to AAA for an IDP

To get an IDP from AAA, bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-sized photo (2x2 inches), and proof of your current address. The address proof can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. You do not need to be an AAA member to obtain an IDP, though members sometimes receive a small discount.

The photo requirement is strict — AAA will not accept a photo from your phone or a printout. You will need an actual printed photo, which you can get at most pharmacies, photo studios, or even some AAA offices themselves. If you are in a hurry, ask the AAA office whether they can take the photo on-site for an additional fee.

Bring your documents in person to an AAA office. You cannot order an IDP online or by mail through AAA. The process happens at the counter and takes about 15 minutes.

How Much an IDP Costs and How Long It Takes

An IDP from AAA costs approximately $20, though the exact price varies by location and membership status. Some AAA offices charge $15, others $25. Call your local AAA office to confirm the current price before you go.

The IDP is issued on the spot. You walk in, hand over your documents and photo, pay the fee, and walk out with the permit in hand. There is no waiting period or mail delivery. This same-day issuance is one reason people choose AAA over other routes.

An IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue. It expires on the same date regardless of whether your U.S. driver's license expires before then, so check both expiration dates before you travel.

Which Countries Recognize an IDP

Most countries in Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa recognize an IDP. However, not all countries require one, and a few do not recognize them at all. Some countries accept an IDP but also require you to have an official translation of your license from a certified translator.

Before you travel, check the specific rules for your destination country. The U.S. State Department website lists country-by-country driving requirements, and your rental car company can also tell you what documents they need. Do not assume an IDP is required or sufficient — the rules vary widely and change occasionally.

Canada and Mexico, for example, do not require an IDP if you are a U.S. citizen with a valid U.S. driver's license. Australia and New Zealand accept an IDP but also accept a certified English translation of your license. Some countries in the Middle East do not recognize IDPs at all and require an official translation instead.

IDP vs. an Official Translation of Your License

An IDP is not the same as an official translation. An IDP is a standardized international document issued by AAA under an international treaty. An official translation is a certified translation of your actual license, usually done by a professional translator or notary public.

Some countries accept an IDP. Some require an official translation. Some accept either one. A few require both. This is why checking your destination country's specific rules matters — you might need to get a translation done by a translator in addition to (or instead of) the IDP.

If you need an official translation, you will have to arrange that separately. AAA does not provide translations. You can find certified translators through your state bar association, the American Translators Association, or by asking your rental car company for a referral.

What to Do If You Cannot Get to an AAA Office

If you do not have an AAA office nearby or cannot visit in person, you have limited options. AAA does not issue IDPs by mail or online. You must appear in person with your documents and photo.

If you live far from an AAA office, you can sometimes ask a friend or family member to go on your behalf, but AAA requires the person explore to be present. Some offices may make exceptions for people with mobility issues — call ahead and ask.

Your other option is to get an official translation of your license instead. This can be done by mail in many cases, though it takes longer and costs more than an IDP. If your destination country accepts either an IDP or a translation, a translation might be your only practical route if you cannot reach an AAA office before your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if I am just renting a car for a day trip to Canada or Mexico?

No. Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP for U.S. citizens. Your valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient. However, check with your rental car company, as some companies have their own policies that may differ from the country's legal requirement.

Can I get an IDP if my U.S. driver's license is expired?

No. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid (not expired) to obtain an IDP. If your license is expired, renew it first at your state's DMV, then go to AAA for the IDP.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

An IDP is not a legal document in the way a driver's license is, so losing it is less serious than losing your license. You can still drive with just your U.S. license in most countries. Contact AAA after you return home if you need a replacement, or get an official translation of your license as a backup before you travel.

Is an IDP the same as an international driver's license?

No. An international driver's license does not exist as a standalone document issued by any U.S. authority. The IDP is what people often mean when they say "international driver's license," but technically it is a permit, not a license. Your U.S. driver's license remains your actual license.

How do I know if my destination country accepts an IDP?

Check the U.S. State Department's travel advisory for your destination country, or contact your rental car company directly. They handle customers from many countries and know exactly what documents each country requires. This is the fastest way to get a definitive answer.