How (& why) to get an International Driving Permit from AAA

Planning to drive overseas? Consider getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) from AAA beforehand. 

You might hear them referred to as an "international driver's license" or "international permit." They’re inexpensive, easy to obtain through AAA, and honored as a form of identification in more than 150 countries worldwide. The permit contains your name, photo, and driver information translated into 10 languages.

The 3 main reasons to carry an International Driving Permit:

Each country has its own requirements for foreign visitors who want to drive. Some, like Canada, recognize U.S. driver's licenses. Others require an IDP, and a few require separate documents. 

That's why AAA recommends bringing an IDP along with your U.S. driver's license to help avoid many potential hassles, especially if you're traveling in a country where English is not the primary language. Even if an IDP 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 IDP's 10 other languages.

Not sure what the rules are where you'll be traveling? Ask your AAA Travel Advisor at a branch in person or over the phone.

Nope! U.S. driver's licenses are considered valid by Canada and Mexico for visitors on short-term tourist trips. (You'll still need your passport to enter either country, whether or not you're driving. Learn how to apply for or renew your passport.)

U.S. auto insurance is also valid in Canada as long as you're only visiting, but if you are driving your own vehicle into Mexico, you will need to buy Mexico liability auto insurance. The U.S. liability insurance you already have is invalid in Mexico. Learn more about Mexico auto insurance.

AAA is 1 of only 2 organizations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue International Driving Permits in the United States. AAA issues IDPs to the public; you don't need to be a member to get an IDP from AAA.

You can apply for an IDP from any full-service AAA branch in person or by mail. You'll need: 

• A completed IDP application. Pick one up at a AAA branch or download and print one
• 2 original passport-size photos with your signature on the back (need photos?)
• A check or money order for the $20 application fee, plus tax where applicable
• A current driver's license from your home state or U.S. territory (or a photocopy of both sides if applying by mail)
  
  

To apply by mail, send your completed application, fee, and a photocopy of both sides of your driver's license to any full-service AAA branch. Allow 10 days for delivery.

• If you are currently overseas, you can apply for an IDP by sending the materials listed above to:
  
  AAA/IDP
  Attn: Mailstop #28
  1000 AAA Drive
  Heathrow, FL 32746
  
  
• IMPORTANT: An IDP is only valid when accompanied by your physical U.S. driver's license.
• You must be at least 18 to apply for an IDP.
• IDPs are valid for 1 year and aren't renewable.