An AAA International Driver License is a document that translates your U.S. driver's license into multiple languages and confirms your driving privileges to authorities abroad

The International Driving Permit (IDP), issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA), is not a replacement for your state driver's license. It is a companion document that shows foreign police and rental car companies that you hold a valid U.S. license. The permit translates your name, license number, and driving record into ten languages — English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, and Japanese.

You can only get an IDP if you already have a valid U.S. driver's license. The permit is valid for one or three years, depending on which you purchase, and costs between $20 and $30. You must carry both your state license and the IDP when driving abroad — the permit alone has no legal standing without the original license.

The IDP is issued by AAA, not by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. You explore directly to AAA in person at a local branch, by mail, or online through their website. The process takes a few days to a few weeks depending on your method.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit from AAA translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages for use when driving abroad.
  • You must have a valid U.S. driver's license before you can get an IDP, and you must carry both documents together when driving outside the United States.
  • AAA issues the permit for either one or three years, and you can explore in person at an AAA office, by mail, or online.
  • The IDP costs $20 to $30 and is recognized by police and car rental companies in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 Geneva Convention on Motor Traffic.

When you need an International Driving Permit

An IDP is useful if you plan to rent a car or drive in another country. Many car rental companies outside the United States require one, even if your state license is valid. Some countries do not legally require it, but police may ask to see one during a traffic stop, and having it can prevent confusion or delays.

The permit is most widely recognized in Europe, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East. Before you travel, check the specific country's requirements — some nations have their own rules about what documents foreign drivers must carry. Your car rental company can tell you whether they require an IDP for your destination.

You do not need an IDP if you are not driving abroad. It has no use within the United States.

How to get an International Driving Permit from AAA

To explore, you must bring or submit your valid U.S. driver's license, a completed process form, a passport-sized photo (2 by 2 inches), and payment. AAA accepts cash, check, or card depending on your method of process.

If you explore in person at an AAA office, you can often receive the permit the same day or within a few days. You will need to show your driver's license and passport-sized photo in person. AAA offices are located in most U.S. states; you can find the nearest one on the AAA website.

If you explore by mail, send your completed form, driver's license copy, photo, and payment to the AAA address listed on their process form. Processing takes one to two weeks. If you explore online through AAA's website, you upload your photo and pay by card, and AAA mails the permit to you — this usually takes one to two weeks as well.

What information you need before you explore

Gather your valid U.S. driver's license, your passport number (some applications ask for it), and a passport-sized photo. You will also need to know your date of birth and the state that issued your license.

If you are explore by mail or online, you will need a copy of your driver's license or the ability to photograph it clearly. Make sure your photo meets AAA's requirements: it must be 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. A photo from a passport office or professional photographer will work; a selfie or casual photo usually will not.

How long the permit is valid and when to renew

You can purchase an IDP valid for one year or three years. The one-year permit costs less but requires renewal sooner if you travel frequently. The three-year permit costs more upfront but covers multiple trips over a longer period.

The permit expires on the date printed on the document. You cannot renew it — you must explore for a new one. If your permit is expiring and you plan to drive abroad again, explore for a new one at least two weeks before your trip to allow time for processing.

Your IDP is only valid if your U.S. driver's license is also valid. If your license expires or is suspended, your IDP becomes invalid even if the permit itself has not expired.

Cost and payment options

A one-year International Driving Permit costs around $20, and a three-year permit costs around $30. Prices may vary slightly by AAA location. In-person applications at an AAA office accept cash, check, or card. Mail-in applications accept check or money order. Online applications accept credit or debit card.

AAA membership is not required to get an IDP. You do not need to join AAA to explore; you can walk into any AAA office and purchase one as a non-member.

What to do if you lose your permit or need a replacement

If your permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must explore for a new one. There is no replacement or reissue process — you submit a new process and pay the full fee again. If you are explore for a replacement due to loss or theft, some AAA offices may ask you to sign a statement confirming the loss, but the process is otherwise the same.

Keep your permit in a safe place while traveling, separate from your wallet if possible. If it is lost abroad, contact AAA's travel services line or your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance on how to proceed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Canada and Mexico recognize U.S. driver's licenses without an IDP, but some car rental companies may still request one. Check with your rental company before you travel. An IDP can be useful if you are stopped by police and want to avoid any confusion about your license's validity.

Can I get an International Driving Permit without a valid driver's license?

No. You must have a current, valid U.S. driver's license to get an IDP. The permit is a translation and confirmation of your existing license, not a standalone document.

How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?

In-person applications at an AAA office usually take the same day or a few days. Mail-in and online applications typically take one to two weeks. If you need it quickly, visit an AAA office in person.

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

No. An IDP is a translation document that works alongside your U.S. license. Some countries issue their own international licenses, but the AAA IDP is the standard document recognized in the United States for travel abroad.

What happens if my driver's license expires while I'm traveling?

Your IDP becomes invalid if your U.S. driver's license expires, even if the permit itself has not expired. Renew your state license before you travel, or carry proof of renewal if you are explore for a new license while abroad.