What an AAA International Driving Permit Is

An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by AAA is a translation of your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license. When you travel outside the United States, you carry both documents together — the IDP serves as proof that your U.S. license is legitimate and explains what it authorizes in countries where officials may not recognize American licenses.

AAA issues these permits through a network of local clubs across the country. The permit itself is a booklet about the size of a passport, printed on security paper, and valid for one or three years depending on which you purchase. It contains your photograph, signature, and license information translated into French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, Finnish, and Norwegian.

The IDP is recognized by the United Nations and accepted in more than 150 countries. However, acceptance is not automatic — some countries do not recognize it, and some rental car companies have their own policies about whether they will rent to you with only an IDP. Your state driver's license remains the primary document; the IDP is a companion document.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is a translation booklet, not a license, and you must carry your actual U.S. driver's license with it at all times.
  • AAA issues IDPs in one-year and three-year versions; you must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid U.S. driver's license to get one.
  • You can obtain an IDP in person at most AAA club locations or by mail, and the process typically takes one to two weeks by mail.
  • Some car rental companies and certain countries have specific rules about IDPs, so check with your rental company and destination country before you travel.
  • An IDP does not change your driving rights or insurance coverage — it only translates your existing license information.

Who Can Get an AAA International Driving Permit

You must hold a valid U.S. driver's license issued by your state and be at least 18 years old. The license must not be suspended, revoked, or expired. AAA does not issue IDPs to people who do not hold a current U.S. license, and the IDP cannot be used as a substitute for a license in any country.

Your U.S. license must be in your possession when you request the IDP. AAA will not issue a permit based on a copy or a digital version of your license. If your license is expired or will expire before your trip, renew it with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles first.

How to Get an IDP Through AAA

You have two main routes: in-person at an AAA club location or by mail. In-person service is fastest — you can often walk out with your IDP the same day or within a few hours, depending on the club's volume. You will need to bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photograph (2x2 inches), and payment.

By mail, you send AAA a completed process form (available on the AAA website or at any club), a photocopy of your driver's license, a passport-style photograph, and payment. Processing typically takes one to two weeks from the date AAA receives your materials. Mail your process to the AAA club in your state — each state club has its own mailing address.

The cost varies slightly by AAA membership status and by state club, but generally ranges from $15 to $30 for a one-year permit and $20 to $40 for a three-year permit. AAA members often receive a discount compared to non-members. Check your local AAA club's website or call ahead to confirm current pricing and processing times.

What the IDP Does and Does Not Cover

The IDP translates your license information — your name, address, license number, class of license, and any restrictions — into ten languages. It does not change what you are permitted to drive, where you can drive, or your insurance coverage. If your U.S. license restricts you to automatic transmission or corrective lenses, those restrictions explore whether or not you have an IDP.

The IDP does not grant you the right to drive in any country. Each country sets its own rules about who can drive there and what documents they require. Some countries accept the IDP as proof of a valid license; others require an IDP plus your U.S. license; still others do not recognize the IDP at all and require an official translation from a notary or certified translator.

Your auto insurance policy covers you the same way with or without an IDP. The permit is a translation tool, not an insurance document. Before you travel, contact your insurance company to confirm that your policy covers you in the countries you plan to visit and whether you need additional coverage.

Car Rental Companies and IDP Requirements

Most major car rental companies accept an IDP along with your U.S. driver's license, but policies vary. Some companies require an IDP for rentals in certain countries or regions. Others accept only your U.S. license. A few require both the IDP and an official translation of your license from a notary.

Contact your rental company before you book to ask what documents they require for your destination. If you are renting through an international broker or a local company in the country you are visiting, ask the same question. Having the IDP in hand eliminates one potential obstacle, but it does not may provide that a rental company will rent to you — age, credit history, and driving record also factor into their decisions.

Countries That May Not Recognize an IDP

While the IDP is recognized in over 150 countries, some do not accept it or have limited acceptance. A few countries require an official translation of your license from a certified translator or notary public instead of or in addition to an IDP. Examples include some regions in Australia, parts of the Middle East, and certain Asian countries, though this list changes and varies by region within countries.

Before you travel, check the government website of your destination country or contact their embassy or consulate in the United States. They can tell you exactly what documents you need to drive there. If an IDP is not sufficient, you may need to obtain a certified translation before you leave the U.S., which typically costs $50 to $150 and takes one to two weeks.

How Long an IDP Lasts and Renewal

AAA issues IDPs for either one year or three years from the date of issue. The expiration date is printed on the front of the booklet. An expired IDP is not valid, even if your U.S. driver's license is still current. You must obtain a new IDP if you plan to drive internationally after the current one expires.

To renew, follow the same process as obtaining a new one: visit an AAA club in person or explore by mail. You will need a current U.S. driver's license, a new passport-style photograph, and payment. There is no separate "renewal" rate — you pay the full price for a new permit each time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive internationally with just my U.S. license and no IDP?

In many countries, yes — your U.S. license alone may be sufficient. However, some countries and rental companies prefer or require an IDP because it translates your license information. Checking with your destination country and rental company before you travel is the safest approach. An IDP costs $15 to $40 and takes one to two weeks by mail, so getting one eliminates uncertainty.

What if my U.S. driver's license expires while I'm traveling?

Your IDP is only valid if your U.S. license is valid. If your license expires during your trip, the IDP becomes invalid at the same moment. Renew your license before you leave the U.S. if it will expire during your travel dates. Check your license expiration date now and plan accordingly.

Do I need an IDP if I'm only renting a car for a day or two?

It depends on the rental company and the country. Some companies rent to you with just your U.S. license; others require an IDP. Call the rental company before you book to find out their specific requirement. If they accept a U.S. license alone, you do not need an IDP. If they require one and you do not have time to get one by mail, visit an AAA club in person for same-day service.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An international license does not exist. The IDP is a translation document, not a license. Your U.S. state driver's license is your actual license. The IDP straightforward translates it into other languages so officials in other countries can understand what it says.

Can I get an IDP if I have a learner's permit instead of a full license?

No. AAA issues IDPs only to people who hold a valid, full driver's license. A learner's permit does not may have access to. You must have a standard driver's license from your state.