Cruising along the Amalfi Coast or winding through the French countryside in your own rental car feels freer than sticking to a tour bus schedule. Being able to drive on your overseas vacation gives you more flexibility to travel at your own pace. But you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) from AAA to do so.
International Driving Permits, also known as international driver’s licenses or international permits, are inexpensive, easy to obtain through AAA and recognized as a form of identification in more than 150 countries worldwide.
Here’s everything you need to know about an international driver’s license and how to get one.
Why and When You Need an International Driving Permit
The three main reasons to carry an International Driving Permit are:
- It’s valid in most countries. Some countries don’t recognize U.S. driver’s licenses but do recognize International Driving Permits.
- It can reduce language barriers. An International Driving Permit will show your name and driver information translated into 10 languages.
- Some countries require an International Driving Permit to rent a vehicle.
Getting a permit is an important step to take if you plan to drive while exploring internationally, whether you’re with a group or traveling alone.
That’s why AAA recommends bringing an International Driving Permit along with your U.S. driver’s license to help avoid potential hassles, especially if you’re traveling in a country where English is not the primary language. Even if an International Driving Permit isn’t required, you may encounter traffic police or other officials who can’t read your U.S. license but can read one of the translations on your permit.
Tip: If you’re headed to South America, note that a standard International Driving Permit covers most countries there, except Brazil. Brazil instead requires an Inter-American Driving Permit (IADP) for stays of 180 days or longer. Check your destination’s specific requirements before you go.
Which Countries Require an International Driving Permit?
International license requirements change from country to country and sometimes from year to year. Check the current rules before every trip. A few notable exceptions to keep in mind include:
- Some countries, like Spain, accept a U.S. driver’s license but require a certified translation. Your IDP satisfies this requirement.
- Other countries, like Hungary, don’t recognize a U.S. license at all and require an International Driving Permit instead.
- Italy requires an IDP in addition to your U.S. license and fines can increase if you’re in an accident without one.
- Japan also requires an IDP by law. Driving without one can mean fines of up to roughly $3,500.
For the full list, check AAA’s IDP country list before you travel.
How to Get an International Driving Permit
AAA is authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue International Driving Permits in the United States. You don’t need to be a member to get a permit from AAA and you can apply in person, by mail or online.
No matter which method you choose, you’ll need:
- A completed International Driving Permit application
- A passport-style photo
- Your valid U.S. driver's license
- The $20 permit fee
To apply for an International Driving Permit at your nearest AAA location, download the application in advance or pick one up at your local AAA branch (many also offer passport photo services). Then pay any applicable tax on the permit fee when you arrive.
If you can’t get to a branch, mail your application, signed passport photos, a photocopy of both sides of your license and your fee (paid by check or money order) to your nearest AAA branch and allow extra time for shipping.
AAA also offers an online application now. Just sign the form electronically, snap a digital passport photo and photograph the front and back of your driver’s license. You’ll pay a photo fee, shipping, the permit fee and processing (which takes about five business days) plus return shipping.
A AAA Travel Agent can also help you gather everything you need before your trip, from your IDP to your other travel documents.
How Much Does an International Driving Permit Cost?
Your AAA IDP costs $20 no matter how you apply. Extra fees depend on your application method:
- In person: $20 permit fee (passport photos are available at many branches for an added fee).
- By mail: $20 permit fee, plus the cost of your own passport photos and any expedited return shipping you choose.
- Online: $20 permit fee, plus a $10 digital photo fee and applicable shipping.
Where to Get an International Driving Permit
You can get an International Driving Permit from your nearest full-service AAA branch or you can download the application and then fill it out to take in person or apply by mail. You can also apply online with AAA.
Did you know? AAA is one of only two organizations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue International Driving Permits. So however you apply, you know you’re getting the real thing with AAA.
FAQs
How do I get an International Driving Permit if I’m already in another country?
If you’re currently overseas, mail your International Driving Permit and all other required documentation and fees to:
Attn: Mailstop #28
1000 AAA Drive
Heathrow, FL 32746
Do I have to carry my U.S. driver’s license if I have an International Driving Permit?
Yes, your International Driving Permit is only valid when accompanied by your physical U.S. driver’s license.
What are the age restrictions for International Driving Permits?
You must be at least 18 years old to apply for an International Driving Permit.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid?
International Driving Permits are valid for one year. They cannot be renewed. If you need a new permit, you must reapply for one.
Can I get an International Driving Permit the same day?
Yes. Apply in person at a AAA branch and you can typically walk out with your AAA International Driver’s Permit the same day. Online and mail applications take longer, so visit a branch if your trip is coming up soon.
Ready to Plan Your International Trip with AAA?
Getting your International Driver’s License through AAA is one of the easiest parts of planning an overseas trip. It’s also one of the most important ones. A two-week trip abroad or a longer stay booked through a vacation package both go more smoothly with your IDP on hand. That means less time on paperwork and more time to enjoy your trip.
For help with the rest of your itinerary, AAA Travel is ready when you are. AAA Membership comes with travel perks well beyond your IDP, including savings on car rentals, hotels and guided tours around the world. Apply for your International Driver’s License today, then let AAA help with everything else.