aaa travel driver license

Planning to rent a car and venturing out into the world on your own? Plan to obtain an International Driving Permit before you go.

Aaa is the only entity in the u.s. authorized by the u.s. department of state to issue an idp.*, why carry an idp.

Your IDP is a valid form of identification in 150 countries worldwide and contains your name, photo and driver information. It translates your identification information into 10 languages — so it speaks the language even if you don't. Most countries highly recommend an International Driving Permit.

Another country cannot issue an IDP to be used in conjunction with a US driver’s license. An IDP accompaning a US driver’s license can only be issued in the USA. See ALREADY OVERSEAS

Many countries require an IDP to drive legally. Fines for driving without an IDP can be quite costly. Check countries requirements before travel.

An IDP gives you peace of mind while you're out exploring the world - even if you're not planning to drive!

* International Driving Permits may not be issued more than six (6) months in advance of desired effective date. **Contact the AAA Travel office directly to verify IDP Services is available. *** plus sales tax if applicable. Check with the nearest travel office for exact fees.

How to Apply?

To apply in person at a AAA Travel office. You will need to provide:

• Download and fill out an application (new tab) , and bring it to your nearest AAA Travel office** (new tab) .
• Two original passport pictures (also available at AAA Travel offices AAA Travel offices**).
• A valid U.S. driver's license.
• Pay $20 USD permit fee and you're ready to go!***

Apply by Mail If you are not able to visit your nearest AAA Travel office, your IDP can be obtained through the mail. Simply enclose the following and mail them to the AAA Travel office nearest you (check locally for payment options):

• Your completed IDP application form
• Two original passport pictures each signed on the back
• $20 USD permit fee***
• A photocopy of both sides of your driver's license
• If desired, include additional U.S. funds for expedited return mail service. See USPS.com (new tab) or Fedex.com (new tab) for rates.

Already Overseas?

If you are currently overseas you can mail your completed application to the following office and address:

AAA/IDP 1000 AAA Drive Heathrow, FL 32746 Attn: Mail Stop #28

Please allow 5-7 weeks for return mail. [email protected] Replies will be within 24 to 48 hours Due to the recent change in U.S. Customs law impacting USPS Express International mail, FedEx* will be used to most countries. Go to FedEx.com for additional charges. Please provide a street address for delivery, and expect delivery up to 10 business days after IDP is processed.

International Driving Permit Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• How will I benefit?

Am I required to have an IDP in foreign countries?

• What happens if I am stopped…

Since Hong Kong was transferred from Great Britain to China, do I still need an IDP to drive there?

• Does possession of the IDP/IADP along with my U.S. issued driver’s license override any local laws?

If someone visits the United States from a foreign country and discovers that they need an IDP, can they purchase one from AAA?

• I have a U.S. driver’s license, but I am a citizen of another country…

If someone has a driver’s license from a U.S. territory such as Guam, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, how would an IDP work for them?

Can i use a scanned/digital photograph.

• I am on active duty in the military…
• I am traveling to South America…
• Which Geographical Areas/Countries Required IDP?

Can I get an IDP if I only have a temporary license?

What do i need to obtain an idp, how will i benefit by carrying an international driving permit on my next overseas trip.

The International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that provides important information from your driver’s license in eleven different languages, including English. This document came into existence by virtue of a treaty signed in 1949 by the United States and other foreign countries. As an official document, the IDP is recognized in over 150 countries today. Carried in conjunction with a regular drivers license, the IDP can help break down language barriers when traveling in non-English speaking countries. In addition, the IDP provides an additional source of identification. The $20 charge for an IDP is a small price to pay for such peace of mind.

There are some countries that do not recognize a drivers license from the United States, but officially recognize an IDP (e.g. Hungary). There are other countries that honor a United States drivers license, but require a local language translation (e.g. Spain). The IDP can satisfy these types of situations. Keep in mind, however, that while a certain country’s government may not require an IDP, car rental companies located in that country, such as Hertz, may require an IDP to rent a car. Purchasing an IDP prior to departure can save a lot of potential hassles. NOTE: If you are living permanently in a foreign country, even though you may still hold a U.S. state issued driver's license, you must abide by local driver's licensing laws. Many countries require that you obtain a local license once you take up employment and/or residency.

What happens if I am stopped and given a citation against my IDP?

The IDP does not hold any powers of its own apart from your drivers license, and therefore, you do not have a separate driving record with an IDP. The IDP is valid only when carried in conjunction with and acts as a translation of a drivers license. If you are traveling in a foreign country and were to be stopped by a law enforcement officer, your U.S. drivers license and IDP should be presented to the officer. If a citation is issued to you, it will be reflected on the driving record that is with your drivers license.

The United Nations provided official notification to the U.S. State Department indicating that the treaty which applies to Hong Kong at present will continue to apply to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the name given to the territory by China. Such notification should not be misconstrued to mean that China now recognizes IDPs, as the People’s Republic of China has never become a party to the treaty.

Does possession of the IDP/IADP along with my U. S. issued driver’s license override any local laws?

No, even though the IDP/IADP is valid for one year you must adhere to all local laws. For example, in many countries if you take up residence or employment you need to obtain a local license.

An IDP must be issued in the same country as the driver’s license of the traveler. Therefore, if someone from the United Kingdom has a U.K. driver’s license, their IDP must also be issued in the United Kingdom.

I have a U.S. driver’s license, but I am a citizen of another country. Where should I obtain an IDP?

The IDP must be issued in the same country as the driver’s license. In the case of a driver’s license being issued in the United States, the IDP must also be issued in the United States. Contact your nearest AAA office to obtain an IDP.

Since their driver’s license was issued by a U.S. possession, their IDP would also be issued in the United States. Contact a AAA office in the United States, and the IDP can be issued and mailed.

Scanned photographs are not acceptable. Please read U.S. Passport Photo Requirements (new tab) for guidelines. Polaroid type photographs are acceptable. Photographs can be either color or black and white. Photocopies are not acceptable.

I am on active duty in the military and my U.S. license has or is due to expire. Can I apply for an IDP?

Each state has its own provisions for extending the validity of state driving licenses for active duty military. Though valid in a home state, an expired U.S. license held by active duty military may not be valid or acceptable in a foreign country per that country’s driving requirements. See DMV.org (new tab) for state information on renewals, keeping in mind that an IDP is only a translation of the license, not a license to drive. Military applicants must understand the conditions under which an IDP is valid if insisting upon issuance of a permit against an expired U.S. license that may be considered valid in their home state until discharged from active duty. NOTE: If a state DMV allows renewal online or by mail for active duty military personnel stationed out of state, applicants should renew their license prior to issuance of an IDP. Some states will issue a DL236 card to be presented with an expired license to extend validity.

I am traveling to South America, so which permit should I issue?

The International Driving Permit is valid for South America, EXCEPT Brazil and Uruguay. The Inter-American Driving Permit (IADP) must be issued for those two countries.

Geographical Areas/Countries Which Honor International Driving Permits (Convention on Road Traffic, United Nations, Geneva 1949)

• Afghanistan*
• Anguilla*/**
• Antigua*/**
• Argentina***
• Azerbaijan*
• Bahamas Bahrain*
• Bangladesh Barbados**
• Bolivia*/***
• Brazil (Inter-American Driving Permit only)
• Burkina Faso (was Volta)
• Cambodia (was Kampuchea)
• Canada Cape Verde Islands*
• Cayman Islands*
• African Rep. Chad*
• Colombia*/***
• Congo, Rep. of (Brazzaville)
• Congo, Dem. Rep. of (Kinshasa)
• Costa Rica*/***
• Cote d´Ivoire (Ivory Coast)
• Dominica*/**
• Domincan Rep.***
• Egypt El Salvador*/***
• Equatorial Guinea*
• Fiji Finland
• France (including French overseas territories)
• French Polynesia
• Guatemala***
• Guernsey Guinea*
• Guinea-Bissau*
• Guyana Haiti***
• Herzegovina*
• Honduras*/***
• Kazakhstan*
• Korea (Rep.)
• Liechtenstein*
• Mauritania*
• Mexico*/***
• Montserrat*/**
• Mozambique*
• Netherlands
• Netherlands Antilles
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Nicaragua*/***
• Paraguay***
• Philippines
• St. Kitts & Nevis*/**
• St. Vincent & the Grenadines
• Sao Tome & Principe*
• Saudi Arabia*
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• Switzerland*
• Tajikistan*
• Trinidad & Tobago***
• Turkmenistan***
• United Arab Emirates*
• United Kingdom
• Uruguay (Inter-American Driving Permit only)
• Uzbekistan*
• Vatican City (Holy See)
• Venezuela***
• Western Samoa

* Not party to 1949 Convention: International Driving Permit Honored. **U.S. driver’s license and International Driving Permit recognized on presentation to local police and payment of Special Registration Fee upon arrival. ***Geographical Areas Which Honor Inter-American Driving Permits (Convention on Regulation of Inter-American Motor Vehicle Traffic, Organization of American States, Washington, D.C. 1943) as of January, 2009. If you intend to drive in the following countries, be sure to check INTER-AMERICAN DRIVING PERMIT box page 1: Brazil and Uruguay

While a temporary license is a valid license you should wait until you receive your permanent state license before traveling. Authorities abroad probably will not accept a temporary license.

You need to complete a brief application form (available through this Internet web site, or your nearest AAA office), provide 2 passport-sized photographs with your signature on the back of them, a photocopy of the front and back of your valid U.S. issued driver’s license, and a check or money order for $20 in U.S. funds. If transacting by mail, these items would need to be mailed to a AAA office in the United States. Otherwise, everything can be handled in a single office visit. NOTE: If you are currently overseas you can mail your completed application to the following office and address: AAA/IDP, b1000 AAA Dr., Heathrow, FL 32746 Attn: Mailstop #28

How Do I Get an International Driver’s Permit? 

They’re useful, affordable and easy to obtain through aaa.

Planning a trip overseas? Don’t forget to pick up an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) — sometimes called an international driver’s license — at a AAA Washington store before you go. 

Many countries won’t recognize a U.S. driver’s license but will accept an international driver’s permit. Even if you’re going to a country where you are permitted to drive on your U.S. driver’s license, it can still come in handy while overseas. You might need it if:

• You’re stopped by a police officer and can’t speak or read the language;
• You’re asked for ID by a non-English speaker but you left your passport back at the hotel;
• You’re renting a car;
• You’re traveling outside of major cities and tourist areas where there are fewer English speakers. 

What’s more, an international driver’s permit is easy, fast and affordable to obtain through AAA either by mail or in person at AAA stores in Washington and Northern Idaho. 

What is an international driver’s permit (IDP)? 

An international driver’s permit (IDP) comes in the form of a booklet that translates key driver’s license information into 10 different languages. Whereas driver’s licenses are peculiar to states and nations, IDPs provide a standard, known document that is recognized by more than 150 countries.

The permit contains your name, birthplace, address, what class of vehicle you are authorized to drive and if you need to wear corrective lenses or have any driver’s restrictions. 

Tip: An IDP does not replace your driver’s license. If you are stopped in a foreign country, you will need to present it along with your valid U.S. driver’s license. So, in other words, don’t leave your driver’s license at home. Both pieces of ID must be carried together at all times. The IDP will be valid for one year. 

Why do I need an international driver’s license?

An IDP is recognized by more than 150 countries. Some countries, like Hungary, require an IDP, while others require (or strongly prefer) a translation of your driver’s license information, such as in Spain. 

Also, even in countries that accept a U.S. driver’s license, some car rental companies will not rent you a car without an international driver’s permit. 

Tip: A few countries will not accept an IDP or your driver’s license, most notably, the People’s Republic of China. If you want to drive in China, you will need a valid license issued in China. Hong Kong, now a territory of China, will recognize IDPs. Some South American countries, including Brazil and Uruguay, won’t accept an IDP but will accept an Inter-American Driving Permit. (You can also obtain an Inter-American Driving Permit through AAA.)  

Apply In Person

The quickest and easiest way to get an IDP is to go to your nearest AAA Washington store and apply in person. AAA is one of only two private entities sanctioned by the U.S. state department to issue an IDP. If you go to a store, you can obtain an IDP the same day. Normally, the process takes less than a half an hour.

See the list of AAA Washington stores  here.  

• To secure an IDP at a AAA Washington store, all you need to bring is:
• A completed IDP Application  (the application form is also available at AAA stores);
• A valid U.S. driver’s license;
• Two original recent passport-style photos printed on photo paper with your signature on the back (you can get passport photos taken at AAA stores for an additional fee);
• Pay the $20 permit fee, plus tax. 

Apply By Mail 

You can also send your printed IDP application to the AAA store located in Seattle (see address below). We will process and return your international driver’s permit within a few days.  

If you are applying by mail, you will need to send: 

• Your completed IDP application form
• Two original passport pictures each signed on the back;
•  A photocopy of both sides of your driver’s license;
• If desired, include additional U.S. funds for expedited return mail service. ( See USPS.com  or  Fedex.com for rates)
• Include a check or money order for $24.05 ($20 permit fee, $2.05 Seattle tax and $2 for domestic mailing).
• Mail to: AAA/IDP-Auto Travel 1523 15 th Ave. W Seattle, WA 98119 

What are the requirements for U.S. residents? 

You must obtain your international driver’s permit from the country that issued your driver’s license. In other words, if you have valid U.S. driver’s license, the IDP must be issued from the U.S.  Plus, your driver’s license must have at least six months remaining before the expiration date.  

In order to qualify for an IDP issued in the U.S., you must: 

• Be 18 years or older;
• Hold a valid U.S. or territorial driver’s license.

Regardless of whether you technically need one to drive in the country you plan to visit, an International Driver’s Permit is a good document to hold as a secondary piece of ID while traveling overseas. It is quick, easy and affordable to obtain, and you can complete the entire process through AAA Washington. 

—Written by AAA Washington staff

—Top Photo: AdobeStock

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• International Driving Permit

How will I benefit by carrying an International Driving Permit on my next overseas trip?

The International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that provides important information from your driver’s license in eleven different languages, including English. This document came into existence by virtue of a treaty signed in 1949 by the United States and other foreign countries. As an official document, the IDP is recognized in over 150 countries today. Carried in conjunction with a regular drivers license, the IDP can help break down language barriers when traveling in non-English speaking countries. In addition, the IDP provides an additional source of identification. The $20 charge for an IDP is a small price to pay for such peace of mind.

I am on active duty in the military and my U.S. license has or is due to expire. Can I apply for an IDP?

Each state has its own provisions for extending the validity of state driving licenses for active duty military. Though valid in a home state, an expired U.S. license held by active duty military may not be valid or acceptable in a foreign country per that country’s driving requirements. See DMV.org for state information on renewals, keeping in mind that an IDP is only a translation of the license, not a license to drive. Military applicants must understand the conditions under which an IDP is valid if insisting upon issuance of a permit against an expired U.S. license that may be considered valid in their home state until discharged from active duty. NOTE: If a state DMV allows renewal online or by mail for active duty military personnel stationed out of state, applicants should renew their license prior to issuance of an IDP. Some states will issue a DL236 card to be presented with an expired license to extend validity.

I am traveling to South America, so which permit should I issue?

The International Driving Permit is valid for South America, EXCEPT Brazil and Uruguay. The Inter-American Driving Permit (IADP) must be issued for those two countries. Please visit your nearest AAA Store to process an application for an Inter-American Driving Permit. This permit is currently unavailable for processing through the mail.

Can I get an IDP if I only have a temporary license?

While a temporary license is a valid license you should wait until you receive your permanent state license before traveling. Authorities abroad probably will not accept a temporary license.

What do I need to obtain an IDP?

You need to complete a brief application form (available online and at your AAA Store), provide 2 passport-sized photographs with your signature on the back of them, a photocopy of the front and back of your valid U.S. issued driver’s license, and an application fee. Visit your nearest AAA Store to process your application. If you prefer, you may place an order online and submit your materials through mail for processing NOTE: If you are currently overseas, please contact us to obtain a quote for processing and international delivery.

Am I required to have an IDP in foreign countries?

There are some countries that do not recognize a drivers license from the United States, but officially recognize an IDP (e.g. Hungary). There are other countries that honor a United States drivers license, but require a local language translation (e.g. Spain). The IDP can satisfy these types of situations. Keep in mind, however, that while a certain country’s government may not require an IDP, car rental companies located in that country, such as Hertz, may require an IDP to rent a car. Purchasing an IDP prior to departure can save a lot of potential hassles. NOTE: If you are living permanently in a foreign country, even though you may still hold a U.S. state issued driver's license, you must abide by local driver's licensing laws. Many countries require that you obtain a local license once you take up employment and/or residency.

What happens if I am stopped and given a citation against my IDP?

The IDP does not hold any powers of its own apart from your drivers license, and therefore, you do not have a separate driving record with an IDP. The IDP is valid only when carried in conjunction with and acts as a translation of a drivers license. If you are traveling in a foreign country and were to be stopped by a law enforcement officer, your U.S. drivers license and IDP should be presented to the officer. If a citation is issued to you, it will be reflected on the driving record that is with your drivers license.

Since Hong Kong was transferred from Great Britain to China, do I still need an IDP to drive there?

The United Nations provided official notification to the U.S. State Department indicating that the treaty which applies to Hong Kong at present will continue to apply to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the name given to the territory by China. Such notification should not be misconstrued to mean that China now recognizes IDPs, as the People’s Republic of China has never become a party to the treaty.

Does possession of the IDP/IADP along with my U. S. issued driver’s license override any local laws?

No, even though the IDP/IADP is valid for one year you must adhere to all local laws. For example, in many countries if you take up residence or employment you need to obtain a local license.

If someone visits the United States from a foreign country and discovers that they need an IDP, can they purchase one from AAA?

An IDP must be issued in the same country as the driver’s license of the traveler. Therefore, if someone from the United Kingdom has a U.K. driver’s license, their IDP must also be issued in the United Kingdom.

I have a U.S. driver’s license, but I am a citizen of another country. Where should I obtain an IDP?

The IDP must be issued in the same country as the driver’s license. In the case of a driver’s license being issued in the United States, the IDP must also be issued in the United States. Contact your nearest AAA office to obtain an IDP.

If someone has a driver’s license from a U.S. territory such as Guam, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, how would an IDP work for them?

Since their driver’s license was issued by a U.S. possession, their IDP would also be issued in the United States. Contact a AAA office in the United States, and the IDP can be issued and mailed.

Can I use a scanned/digital photograph?

Scanned photographs are not acceptable. Please read U.S. Passport Photo Requirements for guidelines. Polaroid type photographs are acceptable. Photographs can be either color or black and white. Photocopies are not acceptable.

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I f you're a frequent traveler, you're no stranger to all the ways you can save money so you can travel more often. From travel credit card perks to airfare booking strategies , you've probably got it all figured out. However, you might be surprised when we say that if you're not a AAA (American Automobile Association) member, you might be missing out on amazing deals.

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Now that you know where you want to go, you just have to get there. Luckily, AAA offices can be your one-stop-shop for (almost) all your official documents.

If you know you have air travel planned soon, and you don't have a passport or need to renew it quickly and/or you need a travel visa, head to your nearest AAA office instead of the post office or passport office. With AAA , you can take your passport photos (at a discount for AAA members) and get your passport and visa application expedited through AAA 's connections with RushMyPassport.

If you're planning to drive while abroad, you may also want to consider grabbing an International Driving Permit (IDP). Since a U.S. Driver's License is not accepted in all countries, an IDP is a surefire way to avoid issues. An IDP can also reduce issues with language barriers and it may be required to rent a car. The best part is that with AAA you can get an IDP the same day you apply for only $20, plus additional (but still discounted) fees for the passport photos required for the document.

Lastly, to be prepared for any eventuality that may occur on your trip, you can also purchase automotive and travel insurance through AAA . They partner with Allianz Global Assistance so members can take advantage of insurance policies that cover trip cancellation, trip interruption, and emergency medical coverage.

Read this next: Safety Items You Should Pack For Your Next Road Trip