What an AAA International Driving Permit Does

An AAA International Driving Permit (also called an International Driving Permit or IDP) is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages. It does not replace your license — you must carry both together. The permit tells police, rental car companies, and insurance agents in other countries that you hold a valid U.S. license, without requiring them to interpret an English document.

The permit is issued by AAA (American Automobile Association) on behalf of the U.S. State Department and is recognized in over 150 countries. It is valid for one year from the date of issue. Some countries require it; others accept it but do not require it. A few countries do not recognize it at all, so you should check the specific country's requirements before you travel.

You cannot drive legally in another country on an IDP alone. You must have a valid U.S. driver's license in your possession at all times while driving. The permit is a companion document only.

Key Takeaways

  • An AAA International Driving Permit translates your U.S. license into ten languages and is valid for one year from the date you receive it.
  • You must carry both your U.S. driver's license and the permit together; the permit does not work without your actual license.
  • AAA issues the permit in person at AAA offices or by mail, and the in-person process takes about 15 minutes.
  • The cost is typically $20 for the permit itself, plus a $15 AAA membership fee if you are not already a member, though prices vary by location.
  • Some countries require the permit by law; others do not require it but accept it; check your destination country's rules before you travel.

Getting an IDP in Person at an AAA Office

The fastest way to get an International Driving Permit is to visit an AAA office in person. You will need to bring your valid U.S. driver's license, one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), and payment. The staff will complete the form in front of you, take your photo if you do not have one, and issue the permit on the spot. The entire process takes about 15 minutes.

Not all AAA offices issue IDPs, so call ahead or check the AAA website to confirm the office near you offers this service. If you are not an AAA member, you will pay both the permit fee and a membership fee. AAA membership is not required to get the permit, but the organization charges a membership fee to non-members who request one.

Bring cash or a card — most offices accept both. Ask for a receipt. The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue, so note that date on your calendar if you are planning travel more than a year away.

Ordering an IDP by Mail

You can also request an International Driving Permit by mail through AAA. read the process form from the AAA website or request one by phone. Fill out the form completely, including your name, address, license number, and date of birth exactly as they appear on your U.S. driver's license.

Enclose a passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches), a photocopy of the front and back of your driver's license, and payment. Mail the packet to the AAA address listed on the form. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks, though it can take longer during peak travel seasons.

The mail-in process costs the same as in-person service, but you do not save money by choosing it — you pay for the permit and any membership fee either way. Use mail-in service only if no AAA office is near you or if your schedule does not allow a visit.

What to Bring and What It Costs

To get an International Driving Permit, you need:

  • A valid U.S. driver's license (not expired).
  • One passport-style photo, 2 by 2 inches (color or black and white).
  • Payment in cash or card.

The permit itself costs $20 in most locations, though some AAA offices charge slightly more. If you are not an AAA member, you will also pay a membership fee, which is typically $15 for a one-year membership. If you are already an AAA member, you pay only the $20 permit fee. Some AAA offices offer discounts or bundle pricing, so ask when you call.

The total cost for a non-member is usually around $35 to $40. Prices vary by location and membership tier, so confirm the exact amount before you visit or mail in your request.

How Long the Permit Is Valid and When to Renew

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. If your U.S. driver's license expires before the permit does, the permit becomes invalid — you cannot use an expired license to drive anywhere, even with a valid IDP. If your license is still valid but your permit expires, you can renew the permit without renewing your license.

To renew, follow the same process: visit an AAA office in person or mail in a new process with a new photo and payment. You do not need to wait until the permit expires to renew it. If you are planning travel more than a year away, you can renew early.

Keep your permit in a safe place with your passport and travel documents. Do not laminate it, as some countries' border agents will not accept a laminated permit. Store it flat or in a document folder to avoid creasing.

Countries That Require or Accept an IDP

Most countries either require an International Driving Permit or accept one without requiring it. A smaller number do not recognize it at all. The rules change by country and sometimes by region within a country, so you must check the specific country's requirements before you travel.

Start by contacting the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit. Their website usually lists driving requirements for U.S. citizens. You can also check the U.S. State Department's travel advisory for that country, which often includes driving information. Some car rental companies also publish their own requirements — if you plan to rent a car, check the rental company's website as well.

In general, European countries, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan accept an IDP but do not always require it. Some countries in Central America, South America, and Asia require it. A few countries, including Canada and Mexico, do not recognize it and do not require it — your U.S. license alone is sufficient. Do not assume; always verify for your destination.

What Happens If You Drive Without an IDP in a Country That Requires It

If you drive in a country that requires an International Driving Permit and you do not have one, you can be stopped by police, fined, and in some cases have your vehicle impounded. The consequences vary widely by country. Some police officers may let you go with a warning; others may issue a substantial fine. In a few countries, driving without required documents can result in arrest or detention.

Your U.S. driver's license alone is not a legal substitute in countries that require an IDP. Even if you have a valid license, it does not meet that country's legal requirement. Rental car companies in those countries will also refuse to rent to you without an IDP, so you will not be able to rent a vehicle at all.

The cost of getting an IDP before you travel ($35 to $40) is far less than the cost of a fine, impound fees, or legal trouble. If you are unsure whether your destination requires one, get it anyway. It takes 15 minutes in person and costs less than a tank of gas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in another country with just my U.S. driver's license?

It depends on the country. Some countries accept a U.S. license alone; others require an International Driving Permit in addition. Canada and Mexico do not require an IDP. Most European countries accept a U.S. license but some prefer an IDP. Check your destination country's requirements before you travel — do not assume your license is sufficient.

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

You cannot get an International Driving Permit with an expired license. Your U.S. license must be valid. Renew your U.S. license first through your state's DMV, then explore for the IDP. An expired license is also not legal to drive with anywhere, so renew it before any trip.

Do I need AAA membership to get an International Driving Permit?

No, but non-members pay a membership fee on top of the permit fee. AAA charges around $15 for a one-year membership for non-members who request an IDP. If you already have AAA membership, you pay only the permit fee. If you plan to travel frequently, AAA membership may save you money on future permits and offers other travel benefits.

How long does it take to get an IDP if I order by mail?

Mail processing typically takes two to three weeks, though it can be longer during peak travel seasons (summer and holidays). If you need the permit quickly, visit an AAA office in person — you can get it the same day in about 15 minutes. Plan ahead if you are using mail service.

What if I lose my International Driving Permit while traveling?

Contact AAA or the U.S. embassy in that country. AAA may be able to issue a replacement, though the process depends on where you are. The U.S. embassy can also help you understand your options. In the meantime, your U.S. driver's license is still valid in most countries, though you may have trouble renting a car or explaining your situation to police without the IDP. Keep your permit in a safe place and carry a photocopy separately.