The basic cost of an International Driving Permit
An International Driving Permit (IDP) costs between $15 and $30 in the United States, depending on which organization issues it and whether you need a one-year or three-year version. The American Automobile Association (AAA) charges $20 for a one-year permit and $30 for a three-year permit. The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) charges $15 for a one-year permit and $25 for a three-year permit. Both organizations are authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs.
The permit itself is a small booklet that translates your driver's license information into ten languages. It does not replace your actual driver's license — you must carry both documents together when driving internationally. The IDP is valid only while your underlying U.S. driver's license remains valid, so if your license expires, the IDP expires with it.
Some countries do not recognize the IDP at all, and a few require additional documents like an International Driving Permit issued under a different convention. Before you purchase one, check the specific requirements for the country where you plan to drive.
Key Takeaways
- AAA charges $20 for a one-year IDP and $30 for a three-year IDP; AATA charges $15 and $25 respectively.
- You must carry your U.S. driver's license and the IDP together; the permit does not stand alone.
- The IDP expires when your U.S. driver's license expires, so check your license renewal date before purchasing a three-year permit.
- Some countries do not recognize the IDP, so verify the requirements for your destination before buying one.
- Processing typically takes one to two weeks by mail, though AAA offers same-day issuance at some locations.
Where to get an IDP and how long it takes
AAA and AATA are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs. AAA has physical locations in most states and can issue a permit the same day if you visit in person with your valid driver's license and a passport-sized photo. AATA operates primarily by mail and online, and processing typically takes one to two weeks.
You can order an IDP from AAA online, by phone, or in person at a local branch. AATA accepts orders through its website. Both require your current U.S. driver's license number, your full legal name as it appears on the license, and a passport-sized photograph (2 by 2 inches). If you order by mail, include a check or money order; online orders can be paid by credit card.
If you need the permit urgently, AAA is the faster option because many of its offices issue permits on the spot. Call your local AAA branch before visiting to confirm they have the service available and to ask about wait times.
What happens if your driver's license expires
An IDP is tied to your U.S. driver's license and becomes invalid the moment your license expires. If you purchase a three-year IDP but your driver's license expires in two years, you will need to renew your license and purchase a new IDP before traveling after that expiration date.
Check your driver's license expiration date before deciding whether to buy a one-year or three-year permit. If your license expires within the next year, a one-year IDP is the safer choice. If your license is valid for at least three more years, a three-year permit may save you money on future trips.
Countries that do not recognize the IDP
The IDP is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 or 1968 United Nations conventions on road signs and signals. However, some countries do not recognize it, and a few require additional documents. China, Russia, and India, for example, do not recognize the U.S. IDP and require an International Driving Permit issued under their own rules or a certified translation of your U.S. license.
Before purchasing an IDP, contact the embassy or consulate of the country where you plan to drive, or check the U.S. State Department's travel advisory for that country. The advisory will specify what documents you need to drive legally. Some countries also require you to carry an International Driving Permit along with a certified English translation of your license, even if they recognize the IDP.
Comparing AAA and AATA: which is right for you
AAA is the larger organization and has physical locations in most states, making it the better choice if you need a permit quickly or prefer to handle the transaction in person. AAA membership is not required to purchase an IDP, though members may receive a small discount at some locations. AATA is less widely known but operates entirely online and by mail, which works well if you do not have an AAA office nearby or prefer to order remotely.
| Feature | AAA | AATA |
|---|---|---|
| One-year IDP cost | $20 | $15 |
| Three-year IDP cost | $30 | $25 |
| Same-day issuance | Yes, at most locations | No |
| Processing time (mail) | One to two weeks | One to two weeks |
| Physical locations | Most states | None; mail and online only |
If you are traveling within the next week, AAA is your only realistic option because AATA's mail processing will not meet your timeline. If you have two or more weeks before your trip, either organization works, and AATA's lower price may make it the better choice.
What to bring when you explore
You will need your current, valid U.S. driver's license and a passport-sized photograph (2 by 2 inches). The photo must be recent and show your face clearly; it cannot be a screenshot or digital copy. Some AAA locations accept photos taken on-site for an additional fee, usually $5 to $10.
If you are explore by mail through AATA or AAA, include a check or money order for the permit fee. Online orders require a credit card. Some AAA locations also accept payment by debit card or cash in person. Do not send your original driver's license; the organization will only need the number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an IDP if I am renting a car in Europe?
Most European car rental companies require an IDP along with your U.S. driver's license, even though some countries technically do not require it by law. Check your rental agreement or contact the rental company before your trip. Having an IDP protects you if you are stopped by police and the officer is unfamiliar with U.S. licenses.
Can I renew my IDP before it expires?
Yes. You can purchase a new IDP at any time, and there is no penalty for doing so. If you are planning another international trip and your current IDP will expire soon, you can renew it early. The new permit will be valid from the date of issue, not from the expiration date of the old one.
What if I lose my IDP while traveling?
Contact your country's embassy or consulate when ready. They cannot issue a replacement IDP, but they can provide a letter confirming your identity and U.S. citizenship, which some police officers will accept in place of the permit. When you return to the United States, you can purchase a new IDP from AAA or AATA.
Is an IDP the same as an International License?
No. An IDP is a translation document that supplements your U.S. driver's license. An "International License" is not a real thing — scams sometimes advertise fake international licenses online. The only legitimate document is the IDP issued by AAA or AATA.
Do I need an IDP if I am only driving in Canada or Mexico?
Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP, and your U.S. driver's license is sufficient. However, some car rental companies in Mexico request an IDP, so check your rental agreement. If you are driving your own vehicle, your U.S. license and proof of insurance are all you need.