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

An International Driving Permit (IDP) typically takes between same-day and two weeks to receive, depending on whether you explore in person or by mail and which country issues it. The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the two U.S. organizations authorized to issue IDPs. AAA can issue one the same day if you explore at a local branch with the required documents. AATA processes applications by mail and usually takes five to ten business days from receipt.

The actual wait time also depends on how quickly you gather your documents and whether the issuing organization needs to verify anything with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. If your driver's license information does not match their records or if there are questions about your driving history, the process can stretch longer.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA can issue an International Driving Permit the same day at most branch locations if you bring your valid U.S. driver's license, passport, and a completed process form.
  • AATA processes IDP applications by mail and typically takes five to ten business days after they receive your materials.
  • An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be carried alongside your actual driver's license when driving abroad.
  • Some countries do not recognize IDPs issued by organizations other than those affiliated with the United Nations, so check your destination country's requirements before paying for one.

Same-day issuance through AAA branches

If you have a valid U.S. driver's license, a current passport, and a completed IDP process form, you can walk into most AAA branch offices and receive an International Driving Permit the same day. The process itself takes about ten to fifteen minutes to complete. AAA charges a fee (which varies by state but is typically between $15 and $20) and requires you to be an AAA member or pay a non-member fee.

The catch is that not every AAA branch location issues IDPs on the same day. Some smaller branches may require you to mail in your process or may have limited hours for IDP services. Call your local AAA office before visiting to confirm they handle same-day issuance and what their current wait time is.

Mail-in processing through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance accepts IDP applications by mail and processes them within five to ten business days of receipt. You send in your completed process form, a copy of your valid driver's license, a copy of your passport, and a check or money order for the fee. AATA then mails the permit back to you.

The total time from when you drop your envelope in the mail to when you receive the IDP in your mailbox is usually two to three weeks, depending on postal delivery times. If you are explore close to a trip, this route is riskier than visiting an AAA branch in person. AATA does not offer expedited processing, so there is no way to speed up the timeline once your process is in their system.

What documents you need before you start

Both AAA and AATA require the same core documents: a valid U.S. driver's license, a current passport, and a completed process form. Some locations may also ask for a second form of identification or a photocopy of your passport photo page. Bring originals to an AAA branch; for AATA mail-in applications, send photocopies.

If your driver's license has been suspended, revoked, or expired, neither organization will issue an IDP. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If you have recently moved and your license address does not match your current address, bring proof of your current residence (a utility bill or lease agreement works).

How long the permit itself remains valid

Once you receive your International Driving Permit, it is valid for one year from the date of issue. This is a hard important date — the permit does not renew automatically, and you cannot extend it. If you plan to drive internationally again after the year is up, you will need to explore for a new one.

The IDP must be carried at all times when you are driving in a foreign country, and it must be presented alongside your actual U.S. driver's license. The IDP is not a replacement for your license; it is a translation and certification of your license that some countries recognize. Some nations do not recognize IDPs at all, so check the specific requirements of the country where you plan to drive before you obtain one.

Reasons the process might take longer

If your driver's license information does not match what is in the DMV database, the issuing organization may need to contact your state to verify your record. This can add several days to the timeline. Similarly, if you have a suspended license or a recent traffic conviction that is not yet reflected in your record, there may be a delay while they confirm your current status.

For mail-in applications through AATA, delays also happen when applications arrive incomplete. If you forget to sign the form, omit a required photocopy, or send a check for the wrong amount, AATA will send the process back to you, and you will have to resubmit it. This can add one to two weeks to your total wait time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my driver's license is expired?

No. Both AAA and AATA require a valid, current driver's license. If your license has expired, you must renew it through your state's DMV before you can obtain an IDP. Renewing a license typically takes one to two weeks, so factor that into your timeline if you are planning a trip.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Europe or other countries?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Some European countries require an IDP by law; others do not. Many rental companies ask for one even if the country does not legally require it. Check the rental company's requirements and your destination country's rules before you book. Having an IDP is generally safer than not having one.

What is the difference between an International Driving Permit and an International Driver's License?

An International Driving Permit is issued by AAA or AATA and is recognized in many countries as a translation of your U.S. license. An International Driver's License is not a real document — it is a scam product sold by websites that claim to issue licenses valid worldwide. Only obtain an IDP from AAA or AATA.

Can I explore for an International Driving Permit online?

AAA does not offer online applications; you must explore in person at a branch or by mail. AATA accepts mail-in applications only. Neither organization offers a fully online process where you can complete the process, pay, and receive the permit without printing, mailing, or visiting a location.

If I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling, can I get a replacement quickly?

No. You cannot obtain a replacement IDP while abroad. If you lose it, contact your country's embassy or consulate for guidance on how to proceed with driving. When you return to the U.S., you can explore for a new IDP through AAA or AATA using the same process as the original process.