What an International Driving Permit Is and Where You Need It

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your regular driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid Washington State driver's license, and you must carry both documents together when you drive abroad. Most countries do not require it, but some do, and many car rental companies will not rent to you without one.

Whether you need an IDP depends on which country you are visiting and how long you are staying. Some nations accept a US license alone; others ask for an IDP as proof that your license is legitimate. A few countries legally require it. Before you travel, check the specific rules for your destination country, because the requirement varies widely.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) in Washington State and costs around $20, with a validity period of one or three years depending on which you choose.
  • You must have a valid Washington State driver's license and a passport or other government ID to obtain an IDP; the IDP cannot be mailed to you and must be picked up in person.
  • AAA is the only organization authorized to issue IDPs in the United States, and you do not need to be a AAA member to get one.
  • An IDP is valid only when carried together with your original Washington driver's license; it is not a replacement license and does not work on its own.
  • Processing takes minutes to hours at an AAA office, so you can often walk in and leave with your permit the same day.

Where to Get an International Driving Permit in the Seattle Area

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the only authorized issuer of International Driving Permits in the United States. In the Seattle area, AAA has multiple office locations where you can obtain an IDP in person. You can find the nearest office by visiting the AAA website and using their location finder, or by calling their customer service line.

Some AAA offices are open on weekends, though hours vary by location. Because the IDP must be issued in person and cannot be mailed to you, you will need to visit an office during their business hours. If you are a AAA member, you may have access to additional services or discounts, but membership is not required to obtain an IDP.

What You Need to Bring to the AAA Office

Bring your valid Washington State driver's license and a government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, passport card, or state ID. The staff member will verify that your driver's license is current and that your identity matches your photo ID. If your license has expired or will expire soon, you will need to renew it through the Washington Department of Licensing before you can obtain an IDP.

You will also need to decide whether you want a one-year or three-year IDP. The one-year permit costs less, while the three-year permit is useful if you travel internationally more than once during that period. Bring a payment method — AAA accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards.

How Much an International Driving Permit Costs

As of the most recent information available, a one-year International Driving Permit costs approximately $20, and a three-year permit costs approximately $40. Prices may vary slightly, so confirm the current fee when you contact the AAA office or visit in person. AAA may charge a small additional fee if you are not a member, though this is not always the case.

The cost is a one-time fee — you do not pay renewal fees while the permit is valid. If your permit expires and you need another one, you will pay the full fee again.

How Long It Takes to Get Your Permit

Processing an International Driving Permit at an AAA office typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. In most cases, you can walk out with your permit the same day you explore. There is no waiting period or mail delivery — the permit is printed and issued on site.

If you are traveling soon, you do not need to plan ahead. You can visit an AAA office a few days before your trip and receive your IDP when ready. However, if you are traveling within the next day or two, call ahead to confirm that your nearest office is open and has staff available.

What Your International Driving Permit Looks Like and How to Use It

An International Driving Permit is a small booklet, roughly the size of a passport. It contains your name, photo, driver's license number, and the date it was issued and expires. The permit is printed in English and nine other languages, so rental car companies and police officers in other countries can read your information.

When you travel, keep your IDP and your Washington driver's license together at all times. If you are stopped by police or asked to show your license at a rental counter, present both documents. The IDP has no legal standing on its own — it is only valid when paired with your original license. Do not leave either document behind.

International Driving Permits and Car Rentals

Many car rental companies outside the United States require an International Driving Permit, even in countries where local law does not. Some rental agencies will refuse to rent to you without one, while others will rent but charge an additional fee. A few will accept a US license alone, but this is becoming less common.

Before you book a rental car, contact the rental company and ask whether they require an IDP. If they do, obtaining one before you travel will save you time and frustration at the rental counter. If you arrive at the rental office without an IDP and the company requires one, you may not be able to rent a vehicle, or you may face unexpected charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico do not legally require an International Driving Permit. Your Washington driver's license is usually sufficient for short visits. However, some car rental companies in these countries may request an IDP, so check with your rental agency before you travel. Having one on hand can prevent complications at the rental counter.

What happens if my International Driving Permit expires while I'm traveling?

An expired IDP is no longer valid. If your permit will expire during your trip, obtain a new one before you leave Seattle. You cannot renew an IDP remotely or by mail — you must visit an AAA office in person. Plan ahead if your current permit is nearing expiration.

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my Washington license is suspended or expired?

No. Your Washington driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, expired, or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP until your license is restored or renewed. Contact the Washington Department of Licensing to resolve any issues with your license first.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an international license?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document that works alongside your US license. It is not a separate license and does not replace your Washington driver's license. Some countries issue their own international licenses to their citizens, but the US does not — the IDP is the American equivalent.

Can someone else pick up my International Driving Permit for me?

No. You must be present in person to obtain an IDP. The AAA staff member will verify your identity and signature. If you cannot visit an office yourself, you will need to arrange your travel plans differently or postpone obtaining the permit until you can visit in person.