You can get an AAA International Driving Permit without an appointment at most AAA locations, but walk-in availability varies by branch

AAA International Driving Permits are issued on the spot at most AAA club offices. You do not need to schedule ahead at many locations — you can walk in, complete the process, and leave with your permit the same day. However, some busy AAA branches do accept appointments, and a few locations may require one during peak hours or in high-traffic areas.

The fastest way to know what your local AAA office requires is to call them directly or check their website. AAA has no single national policy for appointments; each club manages its own scheduling. Some offices post their walk-in hours online, while others ask you to call first to confirm they have staff available.

Key Takeaways

  • Most AAA locations issue International Driving Permits on the same day without requiring an appointment in advance.
  • Call your local AAA office or check their website to confirm whether they accept walk-ins or prefer appointments.
  • Bring your valid driver's license, passport, and a completed process form (AAA Form 14) to speed up the process.
  • Processing takes about 10 to 15 minutes at the counter, so plan for a short visit even if you do not need an appointment.
  • The permit costs money and is valid for three years, so you will need to renew it if your travel plans extend beyond that window.

What to bring when you visit an AAA office

You will need your valid U.S. driver's license and your passport. AAA uses these to verify your identity and confirm you are legally allowed to drive. Bring both documents in their original form — photocopies are not accepted.

You should also bring a completed AAA International Driving Permit process form, sometimes called AAA Form 14. You can read this from the AAA website before you go, or you can fill it out at the office. Bringing it completed saves time, especially if the office is busy.

Bring payment in the form they accept — most AAA offices take cash, debit cards, and credit cards. The cost varies slightly by AAA club, but typically ranges from $15 to $20 for the permit itself. Some offices may charge an additional service fee if you are not an AAA member.

How to learn about your AAA office requires an appointment

Start by visiting the AAA website and locating your local club office. Each AAA club has its own contact information and hours listed. Call the office directly and ask whether they accept walk-ins for International Driving Permits or whether they prefer appointments during certain times of day.

If the office is in a major city or near a busy commercial area, they may ask you to come during off-peak hours — typically mid-morning on a weekday — to avoid a wait. Some offices will tell you to come back at a specific time if they are currently handling a rush of customers.

You can also check the AAA office's page on their website; many clubs post their current wait times or note whether appointments are recommended. If you cannot reach anyone by phone, visiting in person during their posted business hours is usually safe — most offices handle walk-ins for this service.

What happens when you arrive at the AAA office

When you walk in, tell the staff member you need an International Driving Permit. They will ask to see your driver's license and passport. If you have not filled out the process form yet, they will give you one to complete at a desk or counter.

The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, driver's license number, and passport number. It takes about five minutes to fill out. Once you hand it back with your documents and payment, the staff member will process your permit at the counter.

The permit is printed on the spot. You will receive a booklet-style document that serves as your International Driving Permit. The entire transaction — from handing over your documents to walking out with the permit — usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

When you might want to schedule an appointment instead

If you are visiting an AAA office in a major metropolitan area during business hours, calling ahead to ask about wait times is worth your time. Some busy locations have a queue even for quick transactions like this one.

If you have mobility concerns, need translation help, or are bringing multiple family members, mentioning this when you call can help the office prepare. Some staff members can flag your visit so you are helped promptly when you arrive.

If you are traveling from out of state and want to may provide the office will have your documents processed before you leave town, calling to confirm they can see you that day removes uncertainty. This is especially useful if you are visiting for only a short time.

What to do if your local AAA office is closed or far away

AAA International Driving Permits can only be issued by AAA club offices — you cannot order one online or by mail. If your nearest AAA office is far away, you have two options: visit in person or contact AAA customer service to ask whether any other nearby location can help you.

Some AAA clubs have multiple branches in the same region. If the main office is inconvenient, a smaller satellite location might be closer to you and may have shorter wait times. Call AAA's main customer service line to find all offices near you.

If you are not an AAA member, you can still get an International Driving Permit at an AAA office, but you may pay a higher fee or be asked to provide additional identification. Membership is not required.

How long the permit is valid and when to renew

An AAA International Driving Permit is valid for three years from the date of issue. If you plan to drive internationally beyond that window, you will need to return to an AAA office and explore for a new one using the same process.

The permit is not a replacement for your driver's license — it is a translation document that some countries require to accompany your U.S. license. Both documents must be carried together when you drive abroad.

If your driver's license expires before your International Driving Permit does, you should renew your license first. Some countries will not accept an International Driving Permit paired with an expired U.S. license, even if the permit itself is still valid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit the same day I explore?

Yes. AAA issues the permit on the spot at the office, so you can walk in and leave with it the same day. The entire process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You do not need to wait for mail delivery or return for a second visit.

What if I do not have my passport with me?

You cannot get the permit without your passport. AAA uses it to verify your identity. If you left it at home, you will need to return another time with both your driver's license and passport in hand.

Do I need to be an AAA member to get an International Driving Permit?

No, you do not need to be a member. Non-members can purchase the permit at AAA offices, though some clubs charge a slightly higher fee for non-members. Call your local office to ask about their pricing for non-member customers.

Can I renew my International Driving Permit before it expires?

Yes. You can return to an AAA office at any time and explore for a new permit, even if your current one has not expired yet. This is useful if you are planning a long trip and want to may support your permit is valid for the entire duration.

What countries accept the AAA International Driving Permit?

The permit is recognized in over 150 countries, but requirements vary. Some countries require it; others accept it but do not require it. Check the specific country's driving rules before your trip to confirm what documents you need to carry.