AARP does not issue International Driving Permits, but AARP members can obtain one through AARP Travel Services

AARP Travel Services is an authorized issuer of International Driving Permits (IDPs) in the United States, but the permit itself is not an AARP document — it is a standardized IDP recognized by the United Nations Convention on Road Signs and Signals. AARP's role is to process your process and deliver the permit to you, usually faster than the American Automobile Association (AAA) or your state's DMV can.

The IDP is a translation booklet that sits alongside your valid U.S. driver's license. It is not a replacement license and has no legal standing on its own. You must carry both documents together when driving abroad. AARP members pay a lower fee than non-members, and the process process is entirely by mail — no office visit required.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP Travel Services issues International Driving Permits to members and non-members, but members receive a discount on the fee.
  • An IDP is a translation of your U.S. driver's license into multiple languages and is valid for three years from the date of issue.
  • You must submit a completed process form, a valid U.S. driver's license, a passport-style photograph, and payment by mail to AARP Travel Services.
  • Processing takes approximately two to three weeks, and the permit arrives by mail; you cannot pick it up in person at an AARP office.
  • An IDP is not required by U.S. law but is recognized by many countries and rental car companies as proof of driving authority.

Who can order an IDP through AARP Travel Services

AARP membership is not required to order an IDP through AARP Travel Services, but members receive a reduced fee. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid, unexpired U.S. driver's license issued by any state or territory. Your license must be valid for the entire duration of your trip abroad.

If your U.S. license is suspended, revoked, or expired, AARP Travel Services will not issue an IDP. Some countries also require that your license have been valid for a minimum period — typically one year — before you arrive, so check the specific requirements of your destination before ordering.

What documents you need to submit

AARP Travel Services requires four items to process your IDP process: a completed IDP process form (available on the AARP Travel Services website or by mail), your valid U.S. driver's license (a photocopy is acceptable), a passport-style photograph (typically 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months), and payment by check or money order.

The process form asks for your full name, date of birth, address, driver's license number, and the state that issued your license. Do not sign the form until AARP Travel Services instructs you to do so — some versions require a signature in the presence of a notary or authorized witness. Verify the current process instructions on the AARP Travel Services website before you submit, as requirements can change.

Fee and processing timeline

AARP members pay a lower fee than non-members. As of 2024, the member fee is typically $15 to $20, while the non-member fee is $25 to $30. Fees vary slightly depending on how you submit your process (mail versus in-person at select AARP locations in some states). Check the AARP Travel Services website for the current fee before you send payment.

Processing takes approximately two to three weeks from the date AARP Travel Services receives your completed process. There is no expedited option. Mail your process to the address listed on the AARP Travel Services website, and keep a record of when you send it. The IDP will be mailed to the address you provide on the process form.

How long an IDP is valid and when to renew

An International Driving Permit issued by AARP Travel Services is valid for three years from the date of issue. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. You cannot renew an IDP — you must order a new one when your current permit expires.

If you plan to drive abroad more than once during the three-year validity period, you need only one IDP. However, if your U.S. driver's license expires before your IDP expires, you must obtain a new IDP because the IDP is tied to your current license. Some countries also require that your IDP be valid for the entire duration of your stay, so plan ahead if you travel frequently.

Alternatives to AARP Travel Services

The American Automobile Association (AAA) also issues International Driving Permits and does not require membership, though AAA members receive a discount. AAA typically processes applications in person at local offices and by mail. Processing time at an AAA office is often same-day or next-day, making it faster than AARP Travel Services if you need the permit quickly.

Some state DMVs issue IDPs directly, though availability varies. Contact your state's DMV to ask whether it offers IDP services and what the fee and timeline are. A few countries also issue temporary driving permits to visitors, but these are not International Driving Permits and are not recognized outside that specific country.

What an IDP does and does not do

An International Driving Permit is a translation document. It translates the information on your U.S. driver's license — your name, date of birth, license number, and driving restrictions — into English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Russian. It does not grant you any driving rights you do not already have, and it does not override traffic laws in the country where you are driving.

An IDP is not required by U.S. law and is not required by all countries. However, many rental car companies require one, and some countries (including France, Germany, Italy, and Spain) recommend carrying one alongside your U.S. license. A few countries do not recognize IDPs at all. Before you travel, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country to confirm whether an IDP is needed or recommended.

Common mistakes when ordering through AARP Travel Services

The most common error is submitting an expired or invalid U.S. driver's license. AARP Travel Services will reject your process if your license is not currently valid. If your license is about to expire, renew it with your state DMV before you explore for an IDP.

Another frequent mistake is submitting a photograph that does not meet the requirements. The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and show your full face clearly. Passport-style photos from a drugstore or photo booth usually meet these standards. Do not submit a photo from a social media account or a photo that is more than six months old.

Applicants also sometimes mail their process to the wrong address or forget to include payment. Double-check the mailing address on the AARP Travel Services website before you send your envelope. Include a check or money order for the correct amount, and keep a copy of your process for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an AARP membership to get an IDP through AARP Travel Services?

No. AARP Travel Services issues IDPs to members and non-members. Members pay a lower fee, typically $15 to $20, while non-members pay $25 to $30. If you are not a member but want the member discount, you can join AARP before you explore.

Can I get an IDP the same day or next day?

No. AARP Travel Services processes applications by mail only and takes approximately two to three weeks. If you need an IDP faster, contact your local AAA office, which often issues permits same-day or next-day in person. Some state DMVs also offer faster processing.

What happens if my U.S. driver's license expires while I am traveling?

Your IDP is no longer valid if your U.S. license expires. Before you travel, make sure your U.S. license is valid for the entire duration of your trip. If your license will expire while you are abroad, renew it before you leave the United States.

Is an IDP required to rent a car in Europe?

Many European rental car companies require an IDP, but not all. Check with your rental company before you book. Some companies accept a U.S. license alone, while others require both a U.S. license and an IDP. It is safer to have an IDP than to assume you will not need one.

Can I use an IDP to drive in countries that do not recognize U.S. licenses?

An IDP does not change which countries recognize your U.S. driving authority. It is a translation document only. If a country does not recognize U.S. licenses, an IDP will not change that. Before you travel, confirm with your destination country's embassy whether a U.S. license is recognized and whether an IDP is needed.