Applying for an International License (International Driving Permit) in the U.S. from AAA

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If you plan on driving while traveling abroad, you should definitely get an International Driving Permit (IDP). In fact, it’s a good idea to get one even if you don't plan to drive when traveling—just in case! It’s a very simple process to get one from AAA in the U.S., and we’ll walk you through the process and answer any IDP questions you may have.

Things You Should Know

An IDP is a document that translates your existing U.S.-based driving license into other languages.
More than 150 nations accept IDPs, so long as you carry it along with your valid driving license.
AAA is the only organization authorized to provide IDPs in the U.S. You can apply by mail or in person at your local AAA office.

What’s an IDP?

It’s an international driving permit, not a driving license. Technically speaking, there’s no such thing as an “international driving license” that authorizes you to drive abroad. Instead, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your existing driving license into 10 languages. That means the IDP is meaningless on its own; you must carry your regular driving license with you at all times. The permit is recognized in more than 150 countries. This means that, if you have both a valid driving license and a valid IDP, you (under most circumstances) can legally drive in any of those countries. Before traveling to a specific country, contact their embassy or consulate to confirm whether they accept the IDP.

Getting an IDP

Confirm that you’re eligible for an IDP. You can only get an IDP if you currently hold a valid driving license. An IDP will not be issued if your license is suspended or revoked. In addition, there are a few other requirements: Your U.S. state/territory/etc. driving license must be valid for at least 6 months after your IDP is issued. If your license will expire during the 6 month period, renew it before applying for the IDP. You must be 18 years old to get an IDP, regardless of the minimum age to get a driving license where you live.

Complete the AAA application for an IDP. Follow this link to the AAA application form, or search for “IDP” at https://www.ace.aaa.com/. Type in all the required information and print out the application, or print out the application and fill it out legibly in pen. Be sure to sign the application after printing it. Also gather the following items to accompany your application: 2 recent passport style photos, 2 in × 2 in (5.1 cm × 5.1 cm) in size, both signed on the back. You can get passport photos taken at any AAA office for a small fee. Your valid driving license (if applying in person), or a legible photocopy of both the front and back of your license (if applying by mail). The application fee of $20 USD, by check or money order (if applying by mail). You can also pay by cash or credit if you apply in person.

Mail your application or take it to AAA in person. Visit https://www.aaa.com/office/ to find the address of your closest AAA office, then either send your completed application there or bring it yourself. There is no waiting period, so if you go in person everything can be handled in a single visit. However, applications sent through the mail are normally processed in 10 to 15 business days. You can choose an effective date (starting date) for your IDP up to 6 months ahead, so plan ahead and get this important task done well before your travel date. If you’re already outside the U.S., mail your application to: AAA/IDP Attn: Mailstop #28 1000 AAA Drive Heathrow, FL 32746

Other FAQs

Who offers valid IDPs in the U.S.? The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the only organization authorized to issue IDPs in the U.S. (The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) used to issue IDPs along with AAA, but no longer does so.) Do not pay any other organization for an IDP. Such offers are often scams. Even if you do receive something that appears to be a permit, it may not be a legal document. The United Nations does not issue IDPs. If you obtained a document purported to be an IDP issued by the U.N., you do not have a valid international driving permit. A real, valid IDP is a multi-page booklet 4 in × 6 in (10 cm × 15 cm) in size, with a gray cover. It includes a page displaying the holder's name, date and place of birth, and home address. This information is repeated in 9 other languages on separate pages. If you have any questions regarding the validity of an IDP, take it to your nearest AAA office.

How do I use an IDP while traveling abroad? Remember that the IDP is really just a certified translation of your driving license. You must keep your actual driving license with you at all times while driving. If requested by the authorities, present both your valid driving license and your IDP.

How long is an IDP valid? An IDP is valid for 1 year, but you can only choose an effective date (starting date) 6 months in advance. In other words, if you want an IDP that will be valid between 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2024, you can’t submit an application before 1 January 2023.

Can I get an IDP in the USA if I’m a visitor to the USA? You can only get an IDP from the U.S. issuer (AAA) if you have a valid U.S. driving license. If you have a valid driving license from another country, you have to get your IDP from the recognized issuer in that country. So, if you’re visiting the U.S. from Italy and have an Italian driving license, you must get an IDP from the Italian issuer. Individual U.S. states make their own rules, but you generally don’t need an IDP if your current non-U.S. driving license is written in English, or possibly English or Spanish.