What Is an International Driving Permit and Why It Matters
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your driver's license into multiple languages. It works alongside your regular U.S. driver's license, not as a replacement. The IDP contains your driving information—name, photo, signature, and license number—formatted in a way that authorities and car rental companies in other countries can understand.
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The IDP exists because driver's licenses vary significantly from country to country. A license issued in the United States may not be recognized or understood by officials in foreign nations. The International Driving Permit follows rules set by the United Nations and is recognized in more than 150 countries worldwide. When you carry both your U.S. license and an IDP together, you provide foreign officials with verification that you hold a valid U.S. driver's license.
AAA issues International Driving Permits on behalf of the U.S. State Department. AAA member clubs are authorized to distribute these documents. The American Automobile Association has handled IDP issuance since 1926, making it a well-established service for travelers.
There are two types of IDPs available. The IDP booklet, issued under the 1926 Convention, is smaller and simpler. The IDP card, issued under the 1968 Convention, contains additional security features and is accepted in more locations globally. Most countries recognize both formats, though some newer regulations favor the 1968 version.
Practical takeaway: Before traveling internationally, research which document format is accepted in your destination country. Contact your rental car company or check with tourism boards in the countries you plan to visit to determine whether an IDP is recommended or required.
Requirements and Information You'll Need to Bring
To obtain an International Driving Permit through AAA, you must meet several basic requirements. You need a valid U.S. driver's license from any state. The license does not need to be a particular type—standard licenses, commercial licenses, and motorcycle endorsements all work. Your license must not be expired, suspended, or revoked.
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You must be at least 18 years old to receive an IDP. This is a standard requirement across all locations that issue these permits. There are no exceptions to this age requirement.
When you visit an AAA office to obtain an IDP, bring specific documents. Bring your valid U.S. driver's license. You'll also need to provide an original or certified copy of your birth certificate or passport. The birth certificate must show your full name and date of birth. A U.S. passport or passport card serves as an alternative form of identification.
Bring a color photograph that meets specific standards. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches in size. It should be in color and taken within the last six months. The photo must show your face clearly, taken straight-on against a plain, light-colored background. You cannot wear sunglasses or a hat in the photo. If you wear glasses for driving, you may wear them in your IDP photo.
You'll also need to complete an application form. AAA provides this form at their offices, and it's straightforward to fill out. The form asks for your personal information, driver's license number, and your intended travel dates. Some AAA locations allow you to complete the form online before arriving at the office.
Practical takeaway: Gather your documents at least one week before your planned travel. Preparing in advance prevents delays and gives you time to address any issues with your paperwork. Visit the AAA website or call your local AAA office to confirm specific requirements and acceptable forms of ID.
How the Process Works at AAA Locations
The process of obtaining an International Driving Permit from AAA is straightforward. Start by locating your nearest AAA office using the AAA website. The organization operates thousands of locations across the United States. You can search by zip code to find offices near you, and many locations are open six or seven days per week.
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Contact your AAA office before visiting. Call or check their website to confirm their IDP processing hours. Some offices handle IDP requests during specific times or days. This ensures you won't make a trip only to find the service temporarily unavailable.
When you arrive at the AAA office, bring all required documents. An AAA representative will review your driver's license, proof of citizenship, and photograph. The representative will verify that your license is valid and that your photo meets the standards. They will complete the application form with you, asking you to provide information about your travel plans, including the countries you plan to visit and your travel dates.
The photo you bring will be used on your IDP document. If your photo doesn't meet the requirements, the AAA office can take a new photo for an additional fee. This photo service typically costs between $10 and $15, in addition to the IDP fee.
Processing time is generally quick. Many AAA locations can issue your IDP on the same day you visit. Some locations may require one to two business days for processing. You'll receive clear information about when your permit will be ready for pickup.
The current cost for an International Driving Permit through AAA is typically $20 for AAA members. Non-members may pay a higher fee, sometimes between $30 and $35. Some locations also accept payment by cash, check, or card. Confirm your office's accepted payment methods when you call.
Practical takeaway: Plan to visit your AAA office at least two to three weeks before your international travel. This timeframe accounts for potential processing delays and gives you time to handle any unexpected issues with your application.
Understanding the Two Types of International Driving Permits
Two versions of International Driving Permits exist, each based on different international conventions. Understanding the differences helps you determine which version may work best for your travel plans.
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The first type is the IDP booklet, formally known as the International Driving Permit issued under the 1926 Geneva Convention. This is the traditional format, smaller and simpler in design. It consists of a small booklet, roughly the size of a passport, that contains multiple pages. Inside are translations of your driving information into several languages. The 1926 IDP has been used for decades and remains widely recognized.
The second type is the IDP card, formally known as the International Driving Permit issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. This format looks more like a credit card or driver's license. It's a single card with advanced security features, including holograms and special inks that prevent forgery. The 1968 IDP includes information in additional languages compared to the 1926 version.
In terms of acceptance, both versions are recognized in most countries that honor International Driving Permits. However, the recognition varies by location. Some countries, particularly in Europe and Asia, increasingly favor the 1968 card format due to its enhanced security features. Other countries accept both formats equally. A small number of countries may have specific preferences, though this is relatively rare.
The validity period differs between the two formats. The 1926 booklet version is typically valid for one year from the date of issuance. The 1968 card version is often valid for three years. This makes the card version more convenient for frequent international travelers or those who travel multiple times within a three-year period.
AAA offices can issue both types. When you visit to obtain your IDP, ask which version is recommended for the countries on your itinerary. The AAA representative can provide guidance based on your specific travel destinations.
Practical takeaway: Research your destination countries' preferences before visiting AAA. If you're traveling to multiple countries, verify whether all of them accept both formats or show a preference for one version. This research prevents needing to obtain a second IDP if your first doesn't work as expected.
What Information the IDP Contains and How It's Used
An International Driving Permit contains key information from your U.S. driver's license presented in multiple languages. On the front of the document, you'll find your name, date of birth, and a color photograph. Your signature appears on the permit, matching the signature on your U.S. license. Your U.S. driver's license number is printed on the IDP so officials can verify your actual license when needed.
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The permit also lists the categories of vehicles you're authorized to drive. These categories correspond to the endorsements on