AAA does offer International Driving Permits, but only to members

Yes, AAA issues International Driving Permits (IDPs) to its members. An IDP is a document that translates your US driver's license into multiple languages and is recognized in over 150 countries. AAA is one of only two organizations authorized by the US State Department to issue them — the other is the American Automobile Association's affiliate in your state, or the National Automobile Club in California.

The permit itself is not a replacement for your US driver's license. You must carry both documents together when driving abroad. The IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on which version you request, and costs less than $20 for either length.

You do not need an IDP to drive legally in most countries if you have a valid US license, but many rental car companies require one, and some countries will not accept your US license alone if you are stopped by police. Having an IDP removes that uncertainty.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA members can obtain an International Driving Permit in person at any AAA office or by mail, with processing taking one to two weeks for mail orders.
  • You must bring your valid US driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photo to get an IDP from AAA.
  • The one-year permit costs around $15 to $20, and the three-year permit costs around $20 to $25, though prices vary slightly by location.
  • An IDP is not required by US law but is often required by car rental companies and may be requested by foreign police.
  • Non-AAA members can obtain an IDP through the National Automobile Club or by contacting their state's AAA affiliate directly.

What you need to bring to get an IDP from AAA

To get an International Driving Permit from AAA, you will need to bring three things: your current, valid US driver's license; a completed IDP process form (which AAA provides); and one passport-style photo, typically 2 by 2 inches. Some AAA offices can take the photo for you on the spot for an additional small fee if you do not have one ready.

You do not need to renew your US license or provide any other documents. The IDP is based entirely on your existing US license and is valid only as long as that license remains valid. If your US license expires, your IDP expires too, even if it has time remaining on its own validity period.

How to get an IDP: in person versus by mail

The fastest way to get an IDP is to visit an AAA office in person. Most offices can issue one on the same day or within a few hours, though you should call ahead to confirm they have the forms and can take a photo if you need one. You can find your nearest AAA office on the AAA website by entering your zip code.

If you cannot visit an office, you can request an IDP by mail. You will need to fill out the process form, include a passport-style photo, make a copy of your driver's license, and mail everything to your state's AAA office. Processing by mail typically takes one to two weeks, plus mailing time in both directions. This method is slower but works if you live far from an office or prefer not to travel.

Cost and validity period options

AAA offers two versions of the International Driving Permit: a one-year permit and a three-year permit. The one-year version costs approximately $15 to $20, and the three-year version costs approximately $20 to $25. Prices vary slightly depending on your state and local AAA office, so ask when you explore.

Choose the one-year permit if you are taking a single trip abroad or are unsure whether you will drive internationally again soon. Choose the three-year permit if you travel internationally regularly or plan multiple trips over the next few years. The three-year permit is better value if you know you will use it more than once.

When you actually need an IDP

The United States has a treaty with most countries that allows US citizens to drive on a valid US driver's license alone. This means an IDP is not legally required in most places. However, rental car companies often require one as a condition of renting to you, and some countries will not accept a US license as the sole form of driving identification if you are stopped by police.

Countries that strongly prefer or require an IDP include Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, and Spain, though this list changes. Before you travel, check the specific country's requirements on its official tourism or transportation website. If you are renting a car, contact the rental company directly and ask whether they require an IDP — many do, even in countries where it is not legally necessary.

If you are not an AAA member

Non-AAA members have two options. The National Automobile Club (NAC), which operates primarily in California but serves members nationwide, is also authorized by the US State Department to issue IDPs. You can contact NAC directly to request an IDP by mail or visit their office if you are in California.

You can also contact your state's AAA affiliate directly and ask whether they issue IDPs to non-members. Some do, though they may charge a higher fee or require you to join AAA first. The easiest path is usually to check whether the National Automobile Club serves your area, or to join AAA if you plan to drive internationally more than once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an IDP without my US driver's license?

No. You must carry both documents together. The IDP is a translation and supplement to your US license, not a replacement. Foreign police and rental companies will ask to see both.

How long does an IDP take to arrive if I order by mail?

Processing takes one to two weeks after AAA receives your process. Add time for mailing in both directions. If you need an IDP quickly, visit an AAA office in person for same-day or next-day service.

What happens if my US driver's license expires while I have a valid IDP?

Your IDP becomes invalid when ready when your US license expires, even if the IDP itself has time remaining. You cannot renew just the IDP — you must renew your US license first, then request a new IDP.

Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting a country for a few days?

It depends on the country and whether you are renting a car. Check the specific country's requirements and contact your rental company before you travel. Many countries do not legally require an IDP, but rental companies often do.

Can I get an IDP for a learner's permit or provisional license?

No. Your US driver's license must be a full, valid license. Learner's permits and provisional licenses do not may have access to for an IDP.