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. The American Automobile Association (AAA) charges $20 for a permit valid for one year, or $40 for one valid for three years. The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) charges $15 for a one-year permit. Both are the only two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs.

The permit itself is inexpensive, but there are additional costs to consider before you can get one. You will need a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photo (usually 2x2 inches), and proof of your identity. If you do not already have a passport photo on hand, you may need to pay for one at a pharmacy, photo studio, or passport acceptance facility — this typically costs $10 to $20.

Some people confuse an International Driving Permit with an international driver's license. They are not the same thing. An IDP is a translation of your U.S. license into multiple languages and is recognized in over 150 countries. Some countries issue their own international licenses through their motor vehicle departments, which may have different costs and requirements.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit from AAA or AATA costs $15 to $40 depending on how long you need it to be valid.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license and a passport-style photo before you can get an IDP.
  • Passport photos cost extra if you do not already have one, usually $10 to $20.
  • AAA and AATA are the only two U.S. organizations authorized to issue IDPs; other websites or services offering them may be fraudulent.

Where to get an IDP and what to bring

AAA issues IDPs at its local club offices across the country. You can find the nearest AAA office by visiting aaa.com or calling their member services line. You do not need to be an AAA member to purchase an IDP, though members sometimes receive a small discount. Walk-in service is available at most locations, though wait times vary by office and time of day.

AATA issues IDPs by mail only. You send them your completed process form, a copy of your valid driver's license, a passport-style photo, and payment. The processing time is typically 2 to 3 weeks. You can find the process and mailing address on the AATA website.

Bring or send the following items to either organization: your valid U.S. driver's license (original or copy, depending on the organization), one passport-style photo (2x2 inches), and proof of identity such as a passport or birth certificate. Some AAA offices may accept other forms of ID — call ahead to confirm what your local office accepts.

How long an IDP lasts and when you need a new one

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year or three years from the date of issue, depending on which option you purchase. A one-year permit costs $20 from AAA or $15 from AATA. A three-year permit costs $40 from AAA. AATA does not offer a three-year option.

The expiration date is printed on the front of your permit. You will need to get a new one if your permit expires while you are traveling abroad, or if you plan to travel internationally again after it expires. Some countries may not recognize an expired IDP, so check the rules for your destination before you travel.

Your IDP is only valid if you also carry your original U.S. driver's license. If your U.S. license expires or is suspended, your IDP becomes invalid even if the IDP itself has not yet expired. If you renew your U.S. license, you do not automatically need a new IDP — your existing IDP remains valid until its printed expiration date.

What an IDP does and does not do

An International Driving Permit translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, and Polish. It shows your name, date of birth, license number, and the categories of vehicles you are licensed to drive. Rental car companies and police in other countries can read this information even if they do not speak English.

An IDP does not change your driving record, your insurance coverage, or your legal status in another country. It is not a separate license and does not give you permission to drive in a country where you would otherwise be prohibited. If you are not old enough to rent a car in your destination country, an IDP will not change that rule. If your U.S. license is suspended or revoked, an IDP will not allow you to drive legally.

Some countries require an IDP in addition to your U.S. license; others accept only your U.S. license; and some do not recognize either. Before you travel, check the driving requirements for your specific destination with the embassy or tourism board of that country.

Avoiding scams and fraudulent IDP services

Many websites claim to issue International Driving Permits for higher fees — sometimes $50 to $200 — and promise faster delivery or easier processing. These services are not legitimate. The U.S. State Department authorizes only AAA and AATA to issue IDPs. Any other organization or website offering an IDP is either fraudulent or selling a different product that will not be recognized abroad.

Legitimate IDPs are issued only by AAA and AATA. If a website does not clearly state that it is AAA or AATA, do not use it. Be especially cautious of services that ask you to pay by wire transfer, gift card, or cryptocurrency, or that do not provide a physical mailing address or phone number.

If you have already paid for an IDP from a fraudulent source, contact your credit card company or bank when ready to report the charge and request a refund. You will still need to get a legitimate IDP from AAA or AATA before you travel internationally.

IDP costs for other countries and territories

If you are a resident of a U.S. territory such as Puerto Rico, Guam, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, you may be able to get an IDP through your local motor vehicle department instead of AAA or AATA. The cost and process vary by territory. Contact your local DMV or equivalent agency for information.

If you hold a driver's license from a country other than the United States, you will need to follow that country's process for obtaining an International Driving Permit. Many countries issue their own IDPs through their national motor vehicle agencies. The cost and requirements differ by country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car abroad?

It depends on the country and the rental company. Some countries require an IDP by law; others do not. Many rental companies request one even when it is not legally required, because it makes the rental process faster. Check with your rental company and your destination country before you travel. Having an IDP is inexpensive and can prevent problems at the rental counter.

Can I get an International Driving Permit online?

AATA accepts applications by mail, and some AAA offices may offer online ordering with in-person pickup, but you cannot complete the entire process online. You must submit a physical passport-style photo and proof of identity. AAA offices are located in most states, so visiting in person is often the fastest option.

What if my passport photo does not meet the requirements?

Passport photos must be 2x2 inches, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. If your photo does not meet these standards, AAA or AATA will reject your process. Pharmacies and photo studios know these requirements and can take a compliant photo for you. Bring your rejected photo to show the photographer what did not work.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as a passport?

No. An IDP is a translation of your driver's license only. It does not replace your passport and does not give you permission to enter another country. You will need both your passport and your IDP when you travel internationally by car.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am traveling?

An expired IDP is not recognized in most countries. If your IDP expires during your trip, you should stop driving and use other transportation. Before you travel, check how long your trip will be and purchase an IDP with enough validity to cover the entire time you will be driving abroad.