What an AAA International Driving Permit Is and Who Issues It

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It is not a separate license — it works only alongside your valid U.S. license, and many countries require you to carry both. The American Automobile Association (AAA) is one of two organizations in the United States authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs. The other is the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA).

You need an IDP if you plan to rent a car, drive, or ride a motorcycle in most countries outside the U.S. Some countries accept only a U.S. license; others accept a U.S. license but prefer an IDP; still others require one. Before you travel, check the specific rules for each country on your itinerary, because requirements vary widely and change. Your rental car company can tell you what that country requires.

An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue. It cannot be renewed — when it expires, you must obtain a new one if you need it again. The permit is only valid if your U.S. driver's license is also valid.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA issues International Driving Permits in person at AAA branches, and you must bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo.
  • The IDP costs $20 and takes about 15 minutes to obtain on the spot; you walk out with it the same day.
  • You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid U.S. driver's license to get an IDP from AAA.
  • An IDP is valid for one year only and cannot be renewed; you must get a new one each time you travel internationally and need one.
  • Check your destination country's specific requirements before you travel, because not all countries require or accept an IDP.

Documents You Need to Bring to AAA

Bring three things to your local AAA branch: your valid U.S. driver's license, a valid passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo. The photo must be 2 inches by 2 inches, in color or black and white, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. You cannot use a photo from your phone or a printout from home — it must meet passport photo standards.

If you do not have a passport or passport card yet, you cannot get an IDP from AAA. The State Department requires proof of citizenship and identity, and a passport serves that purpose. You would need to obtain a passport first through your local passport acceptance facility, which typically takes several weeks.

Bring the original documents, not copies. AAA staff will examine them but will not keep them.

How to Find Your Nearest AAA Branch and Make an Appointment

Visit AAA.com and use the branch locator tool to find the AAA office closest to you. Not all AAA branches issue IDPs — the locator will show you which ones do. You can also call your local branch directly to confirm they issue permits and ask about their hours.

AAA does not require you to make an appointment for an IDP. You can walk in during business hours and complete the process on the spot. However, calling ahead to confirm the branch is open and has staff available is a good idea, especially if you are traveling a distance to get there.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an IDP. Membership is not required. You will pay the same $20 fee whether you are a member or not.

What Happens During Your Visit

When you arrive at the AAA branch, tell staff you want an International Driving Permit. They will ask you to fill out a short form with your name, address, date of birth, and driver's license number. The form takes a few minutes. Staff will then check your documents — your driver's license, passport or passport card, and photo — to make sure they meet the requirements.

If everything is in order, you will pay $20 in cash or card. AAA will then print your IDP on the spot. The entire process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will receive the permit when ready and can leave with it.

If any of your documents are missing or do not meet the requirements, staff will tell you what you need to bring back. For example, if your photo is the wrong size or was taken more than six months ago, you will need to return with a new one.

Cost and Payment Methods

An International Driving Permit from AAA costs $20. AAA accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some branches may have additional payment options — call ahead to ask if you prefer a specific method.

There are no additional fees, hidden charges, or membership requirements. The $20 is the only cost you will pay.

What to Do If Your Nearest AAA Branch Does Not Issue IDPs

If the AAA branch closest to you does not issue International Driving Permits, you have two options. First, check whether another AAA branch within a reasonable distance does issue them. The branch locator on AAA.com will show you which branches offer this service.

Second, you can obtain an IDP from the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) instead. AATA is the other State Department-authorized issuer. You can find AATA locations and information on their website. The process and cost are similar to AAA's, though specific locations and hours vary.

How Long Your IDP Is Valid and What Happens When It Expires

Your International Driving Permit is valid for exactly one year from the date it is issued. After that date, it is no longer valid, even if you have not used it. You cannot renew an expired IDP — you must obtain a new one if you need another permit.

If you travel internationally multiple times in a year, one IDP covers all your trips during that year. If you travel again after the year ends, you will need to return to AAA or AATA and get a new one. Plan ahead if you know you will need an IDP for a trip — get it before your current one expires.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP if I am just visiting a country and not driving?

No. An IDP is only needed if you plan to drive or ride a motorcycle. If you are renting a car, you need one. If you are using public transportation or hiring a driver, you do not.

Can I get an IDP by mail from AAA?

No. AAA issues IDPs only in person at their branches. You must visit a branch with your documents and photo to receive your permit the same day.

What if my U.S. driver's license is expired?

You cannot get an IDP with an expired license. Your U.S. driver's license must be valid. Renew your license first through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, then return to AAA with your new license.

Is an IDP the same as an international license?

No. An IDP is a translation document that works only with your U.S. driver's license. It is not a separate license. You must carry both your U.S. license and your IDP when you drive internationally.

What countries require an IDP?

Requirements vary by country and change over time. Some countries require one, some prefer one, and some do not recognize them. Check the specific rules for each country you plan to visit on their government website or ask your rental car company before you travel.