Processing time depends on where you explore and which type you need

An International Driving Permit (IDP) typically takes between one day and two weeks to receive, depending on whether you explore in person or by mail and which country issues it. If you explore at a AAA office or similar issuing organization in the United States and pay for expedited processing, you can often walk out with one the same day. If you explore by mail, expect two to four weeks for standard processing, or five to seven business days if you pay for rush service.

The actual time the organization spends processing your paperwork is usually short — often just a few hours. The delay comes from mail delivery time if you're not explore in person, and from the volume of applications the issuing office is handling when you submit yours.

One important detail: an IDP is not the same as renewing or obtaining a regular driver's license from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. The IDP is a separate document that translates your existing valid driver's license into multiple languages. You must already have a current driver's license to get one.

Key Takeaways

  • Same-day service is available at AAA offices and some other in-person locations if you bring all required documents and pay the expedited fee.
  • Mail-in applications typically take two to four weeks for standard processing, or five to seven business days for rush service.
  • You need a valid driver's license, a completed process form, and a passport-style photo before you can request an IDP.
  • The IDP itself is valid for one or three years depending on which type you request, but it expires when your underlying driver's license expires.

Same-day processing at AAA and other offices

The fastest way to get an IDP is to visit an AAA office in person with all your documents ready. AAA is the primary issuer of International Driving Permits in the United States, and most of their locations can issue one while you wait. You'll pay a standard fee (currently around $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit, though prices vary by location) plus an additional fee for same-day service.

To get same-day service, bring your valid driver's license, a completed IDP process form (which you can fill out before you arrive), a passport-style photo, and proof of your address. Some AAA offices may require you to be a member, though many will issue to non-members for a slightly higher fee. Call your local AAA office before you go to confirm they have permits in stock and what their current processing fees are.

A few other organizations also issue IDPs, including some travel agencies and passport acceptance facilities, but AAA remains the most widely available option. Processing time at these other locations varies — some offer same-day service, while others may take several days.

Mail-in applications take longer but work from home

If you explore by mail through AAA or another issuing organization, standard processing usually takes two to four weeks from the day they receive your process. This timeline includes the time for your process to travel to them, the time they spend processing it, and the time for the finished permit to travel back to you.

You can speed this up by paying for rush processing, which typically reduces the timeline to five to seven business days. Rush service costs more — usually an additional $10 to $15 on top of the base permit fee — but is worth it if you need the permit before a trip.

To explore by mail, you'll send the same documents you'd bring in person: your valid driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-style photo, and proof of your address. Mail everything to the AAA office or other issuing organization in your state. Include a check or money order for the permit fee plus any rush processing fee. Some organizations now accept credit card payments by phone or online, so check their website before mailing.

What documents you need before you start

Gathering your documents ahead of time is the single biggest factor in how fast you can get an IDP. You'll need a valid, unexpired driver's license issued by your state. The IDP cannot be issued without one, and it will expire when your license expires, so there's no point requesting one if your license is about to expire.

You'll also need a passport-style photo — typically 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a plain background and your face clearly visible. Many CVS and Walgreens locations offer passport photo services for around $10 to $15. Do not use a photo from your driver's license or a selfie; the issuing organization will reject it.

Finally, you'll need proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license counts as proof of address if it shows your current address.

How long the IDP remains valid

Once you receive your International Driving Permit, it is valid for either one year or three years depending on which type you requested. The three-year permit costs more but lasts longer, so it's the better choice if you travel internationally more than once every few years.

However, your IDP will expire before its stated expiration date if your underlying driver's license expires first. For example, if you get a three-year IDP but your driver's license expires in 18 months, your IDP becomes invalid when your license expires. This is why it's important to check your license expiration date before you request an IDP — there's no point paying for a three-year permit if your license will expire in one year.

Planning ahead for international travel

If you know you're traveling internationally, request your IDP at least three weeks before your trip if you're explore by mail, or at least a few days before if you're explore in person. This gives you a buffer in case something goes wrong — for example, if your process is rejected because a photo doesn't meet requirements, you'll have time to resubmit.

Some countries require an IDP, while others accept only your valid U.S. driver's license. Before you travel, check the requirements for the specific country you're visiting. Your car rental company can also tell you whether an IDP is required. Having one doesn't hurt even if it's not required, because it makes your license readable to police or officials who don't speak English.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your driver's license must be valid and unexpired to request an IDP. If your license has expired, you'll need to renew it through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles first, then request the IDP.

Do I need an IDP if I'm renting a car in another country?

Requirements vary by country and rental company. Some countries legally require an IDP, while others accept a valid U.S. driver's license alone. Check with your rental company and the country's embassy website before your trip. Having an IDP is never wrong and can prevent confusion with local police.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling?

Contact your country's embassy or consulate for guidance. You can still drive using your valid U.S. driver's license in most places, though local police may question why you don't have the IDP you said you had. When you return home, you can request a replacement IDP through the same process as a new one.

Can I renew my IDP by mail if I'm living abroad?

Yes, but you'll need to mail your process to a U.S. address. If you're a AAA member, contact your local AAA office and ask about their process for members overseas. Otherwise, you can mail your process to any AAA office in the United States and have the finished permit mailed to you internationally, though delivery times will be longer.