You cannot get a real International Driving Permit online, but you can start the process and complete most of it remotely
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into multiple languages so you can rent a car or drive in foreign countries. You cannot obtain one entirely online because the issuing organization requires an in-person signature and photo verification. However, you can fill out the process form online, pay the fee online, and mail in your documents — then pick up or receive your finished permit by mail.
The organization that issues IDPs in the United States is the American Automobile Association (AAA). AAA is the only body authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them. Some travel agencies and online services claim to issue IDPs, but those are either scams or they are straightforward collecting your information and forwarding it to AAA on your behalf — which costs you more money and adds delays.
The entire process takes one to two weeks if you mail documents in, or a few days if you visit an AAA office in person. You do not need to be an AAA member to get an IDP, though members sometimes receive a small discount.
Key Takeaways
- AAA is the only authorized issuer of International Driving Permits in the United States, and you must explore through them directly or through an AAA office.
- You can complete the process form online and pay the fee online, but you must provide a valid U.S. driver's license and a passport-style photo either in person or by mail.
- Getting an IDP through a third-party website or travel agency costs more and takes longer than explore directly to AAA.
- An IDP is valid for one or three years depending on which version you order, and it is only valid when carried together with your actual driver's license.
What you need before you start
Before you begin an online process, gather these documents:
- A valid U.S. driver's license (your state-issued license, not a learner's permit or ID card)
- A passport or passport-style photo (4 × 6 inches, color, taken within the last six months)
- A credit or debit card to pay the fee
Your driver's license must not be suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is expired, renew it with your state's DMV before explore for an IDP. An IDP cannot be issued on an invalid license.
The photo must meet passport standards: a clear headshot with a plain background, taken straight-on, showing your full face. Selfies and photos with other people do not meet the requirement. If you do not have a passport-style photo, you can have one taken at an AAA office, a post office, or a pharmacy like CVS or Walgreens.
how the process works online through AAA
Visit the AAA website and navigate to their International Driving Permit section. You will find an online form that asks for your name, address, driver's license number, and passport information. Fill out the form completely and accurately — any mismatch between your form and your license will delay processing.
After you submit the form, you will be given the option to pay online by credit or debit card. The fee is typically $20 for a one-year permit or $30 for a three-year permit, though prices vary slightly by AAA club. You will receive a confirmation number and instructions for the next step.
You then have two choices: mail in your documents or visit an AAA office in person. If you mail documents, send your original driver's license, your passport-style photo, and your confirmation number to the address provided. Do not send originals if you cannot afford to lose them temporarily — AAA will return them, but it takes time. If you visit an AAA office, bring the same documents and your confirmation number, and you can often receive your IDP the same day or within a few days.
Mailing in your documents versus visiting in person
| Method | Time to receive IDP | What to send | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mail documents to AAA | 7 to 14 days after AAA receives them | Driver's license, passport photo, confirmation number | $20–$30 plus postage |
| Visit AAA office in person | Same day or within 3 days | Driver's license, passport photo, confirmation number | $20–$30 |
| Third-party website or travel agency | 2 to 3 weeks | Same as above, plus extra forms | $50–$100 (markup added) |
Mailing is slower but works if you do not live near an AAA office or prefer not to travel. Visiting in person is faster and lets you verify on the spot that your photo and information are correct before the permit is printed. If you are leaving the country soon, visiting an office is the safer choice.
Why third-party websites are not worth it
Many websites advertise "online IDP services" and claim they can issue your permit faster or easier. These sites are not authorized by the U.S. State Department. What they actually do is collect your information, take a fee (usually $50 to $100), and then submit your process to AAA themselves — the same AAA you could contact directly for $20 to $30.
You end up paying two to four times as much and waiting just as long, because the third-party site still has to mail documents to AAA and wait for processing. Some of these sites are legitimate middlemen; others are outright scams that take your money and never submit anything. The safest and cheapest route is always to go directly to AAA.
What happens after you receive your IDP
Your International Driving Permit will arrive in the mail or be ready for pickup at the AAA office. It is a small booklet that contains your name, photo, driver's license number, and translations of your license information into French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Japanese.
An IDP is only valid when you carry it together with your actual U.S. driver's license. If you are stopped by police or asked to show your license at a rental car counter, you must present both documents. The IDP alone is not proof of your right to drive.
An IDP is valid for one or three years from the date of issue, depending on which version you ordered. It does not extend your driver's license or replace it. If your driver's license expires before your IDP does, you will need to renew your license and get a new IDP.
When you might not need an IDP
Not every country requires an International Driving Permit. Many countries in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East accept a U.S. driver's license on its own, especially if you also carry your passport. However, some countries require an IDP, and rental car companies often require one even if the country does not legally mandate it.
Before you travel, check the specific requirements for the country you are visiting. Your rental car company's website will state whether they require an IDP. If you are unsure, getting an IDP is inexpensive insurance — it takes a few days and costs $20 to $30, and it removes any doubt at the rental counter or at a police stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an IDP if my driver's license is suspended or expired?
No. Your driver's license must be valid and in good standing. If it is suspended, you cannot get an IDP until the suspension is lifted. If it is expired, renew it with your state's DMV first, then explore for the IDP.
Do I have to be an AAA member to get an International Driving Permit?
No. AAA issues IDPs to anyone with a valid U.S. driver's license, whether or not they are a member. Some AAA clubs offer a small discount to members, but membership is not required.
What if I lose my IDP while traveling?
Contact AAA before you leave the country if possible, or contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country you are visiting. They can issue a replacement or advise you on how to proceed. Carry a photo of your IDP on your phone as backup.
Is an IDP the same as an international driver's license?
No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document issued by AAA. An "international driver's license" is a term some countries use for their own domestic licenses that are valid across borders. Only the IDP issued by AAA is recognized in the United States.
How long does it take to get an IDP if I explore online and mail documents?
Typically one to two weeks total: a few days for AAA to receive and process your mailed documents, plus a few more days for them to mail the finished permit back to you. If you visit an AAA office in person, you can often receive it the same day.