AAA is the main source for International Driving Permits in the United States

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the primary organization that issues International Driving Permits (IDPs) in the U.S. If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident planning to drive abroad, you will almost certainly obtain your IDP from AAA, either in person at a local branch or by mail. AAA does not issue IDPs online — you must visit a location or use their mail service, and the process takes a few days to a few weeks depending on which method you choose.

AAA has thousands of member locations across all 50 states. Not every AAA office issues IDPs on the spot, but most do, and you can find out whether yours does before you go. The permit itself costs between $15 and $20, though AAA membership is not required to obtain one — non-members can walk in and purchase an IDP without joining.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA locations are the only authorized source for U.S. International Driving Permits, and most AAA offices can issue one in person the same day or within a few days.
  • You do not need to be an AAA member to get an IDP; non-members pay a small fee at the time of purchase.
  • Bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or other government ID, and a passport-sized photo (2x2 inches) to any AAA location that issues IDPs.
  • If no AAA office near you issues IDPs in person, you can mail your documents to AAA's national processing center and receive your permit by mail in one to two weeks.
  • The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be carried alongside your actual driver's license when you drive internationally.

How to find an AAA location that issues International Driving Permits

Start by visiting AAA.com and using their branch locator tool. Enter your city or zip code, and the results will show you nearby AAA offices. Not all of them issue IDPs in person — some smaller branches handle membership only. Call ahead to confirm that the location you plan to visit offers IDP services. Most AAA offices in mid-sized and larger cities do issue them, but a quick phone call saves you a trip.

If you live in a rural area or far from any AAA office that issues IDPs in person, AAA's mail service is your alternative. You can request an process form from AAA.com or call 1-800-222-4357 to have one mailed to you. Fill it out, include your documents, and send it back. Processing typically takes one to two weeks, and AAA will mail your completed IDP to your home address.

What documents you need to bring

Bring three things to any AAA location: your valid U.S. driver's license, a government-issued photo ID (passport, passport card, or state ID), and a passport-sized photograph that is 2 inches by 2 inches. The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and show your face clearly against a plain background. You cannot use a digital photo or a photo from your driver's license.

If you are using the mail service, you will need to include the same items plus a completed process form. AAA will return your original documents along with your IDP, so there is no risk of losing them. Some people prefer the mail route specifically because they can keep their originals and send copies instead — check AAA's current mail instructions to see whether they accept copies or require originals.

What happens when you arrive at an AAA location

Walk in during business hours with your documents. Tell the staff member you want to purchase an International Driving Permit. They will verify your driver's license and ID, check your photo, and fill out a short form with your information. The entire process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will pay the fee (typically $15 to $20, though prices vary slightly by state), and in most cases you will receive your IDP when ready or within a few days.

Some AAA locations print IDPs on site, so you may walk out with it the same day. Others send your paperwork to a regional processing center, which takes a few days. When you call ahead to confirm they issue IDPs, ask whether they print them in-house or send them out — that will tell you whether to expect it same-day or within three to five business days.

Using the mail service if no AAA location is nearby

Request an IDP process by visiting AAA.com, searching for "International Driving Permit," or calling 1-800-222-4357. AAA will mail you an process form and instructions. Complete the form, gather your documents (driver's license, government ID, and a 2x2 photo), and mail everything to the address provided on the form.

Processing takes one to two weeks from the time AAA receives your package. They will mail your completed IDP back to you along with your original documents. This route is slower than visiting in person, but it works well if you are not near an AAA office or if you prefer not to make a trip. Plan ahead — if you leave in three weeks, the mail service will likely get your IDP to you in time, but waiting until the week before you travel is risky.

Cost and membership requirements

An International Driving Permit costs between $15 and $20 depending on your state. You do not need to be an AAA member to purchase one. If you are not a member, you straightforward pay the IDP fee at the time of purchase. If you are an AAA member, the cost is the same — membership does not reduce the IDP price, though some AAA members may receive small discounts on other services.

The IDP itself is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If you plan to drive internationally for longer than a year, or if you will be traveling in multiple years, you will need to renew it. Renewal follows the same process as the initial purchase: visit an AAA location or use the mail service.

What to do if you cannot find an AAA location near you

If you live far from any AAA office, the mail service is your standard option. However, a few other routes exist. Some travel agencies and international travel clubs can issue IDPs on your behalf, though they typically charge a markup over AAA's base fee. Check whether any travel agencies in your area offer this service if you need your IDP urgently and cannot wait for mail processing.

Another option is to contact AAA directly at 1-800-222-4357 and ask about expedited mail service. Depending on the time of year and current processing volume, they may be able to prioritize your process or offer overnight shipping for an additional fee. It is worth asking if you are traveling soon and the standard one- to two-week timeline is too tight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit without going to AAA?

No. AAA is the only authorized issuer of International Driving Permits in the United States. You must obtain yours from AAA either in person at a location or by mail. No other organization, government agency, or online service can issue a valid U.S. IDP.

Do I need my IDP if I am renting a car abroad?

Most car rental companies abroad require an International Driving Permit along with your U.S. driver's license. Some rental agencies may accept a license alone, but having an IDP eliminates any question and is strongly recommended. Check with your rental company before you travel to confirm their requirements.

What if my passport-sized photo does not meet AAA's requirements?

AAA will tell you on the spot if your photo does not work. If you arrive at a location and your photo is rejected, you have two options: find a photo booth or pharmacy that takes passport photos (CVS, Walgreens, and most drugstores offer this service for $10 to $15) and return the same day, or use the mail service and include a compliant photo with your process.

How long does an International Driving Permit last?

Your IDP is valid for one year from the date AAA issues it. If you will be driving internationally after that year ends, you will need to renew it by visiting an AAA location or using the mail service again. The renewal process is identical to the initial purchase.

Can I renew my IDP by mail if I got it in person the first time?

Yes. You can renew using either method — in person at an AAA location or by mail — regardless of how you obtained your original IDP. Choose whichever is more convenient for you at the time of renewal.