Last Updated on July 27, 2025 by Kristin
Planning to rent a car abroad? If you’re traveling to a destination where English is not spoken, there’s a good chance you might need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your state driver’s license. The first thing to know is that it recently became possible to apply for an International Driving Permit online.
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But don’t be fooled by the slew of companies promising to offer quick IDPs online for a premium price. U.S.-based drivers can only get an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA). You can apply in person, by snail mail or online.
What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
An international driving permit (IDP) is a paper booklet that drivers can use to supplement their standard driver’s license in more than 150 countries. An IDP translates your driver’s license information into 10 languages. Not all countries require an IDP, but you will need one to rent a car in a host of popular tourist destinations including Italy, Spain and Japan.
Failing to get an IDP in a country that requires one can cause all sorts of hassles during your trip, ranging from losing money on canceled rental reservations to trouble with local authorities. So, be sure to find out whether you need an IDP for the country you’re visiting well before starting the trip.
Where Can You Get an IDP?
If your trip abroad is coming up soon, websites promising to issue IDPs may seem tempting. But be warned: these services are not valid for U.S.-based drivers. The AAA is the only entity authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs for U.S.-based drivers.
How Can You Get an IDP in a Hurry?
The most convenient way for U.S. drivers to get an IDP is to apply online. The AAA says your application will be processed in five business days, with additional time needed for shipping. You can also track your order on the website. There is a $20 permit fee plus a $10 passport photo fee plus applicable shipping costs.
The fastest way to get an IDP is to apply in person at a local AAA office. First, download and fill out the application AAA provides on its website. When you visit the AAA office in person, you must bring two passport photos and your driver’s license. The application fee is $20.
If you prefer, you can send in the application through the mail. Read the AAA website for instructions on where and how to send the information. Be aware that this process could take up to a couple of weeks.
Watch Out for Scams
For years, websites promising online IDPs have been scamming U.S.-based customers. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has been trying to snuff out this problem for decades and it’s still a problem.
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A quick online search yields plenty of results for online IDPs, but those services are either scams or not applicable for U.S. drivers. Again, the AAA is the only organization that can issue these documents for holders of U.S. driver’s licenses.
So, don’t fall into the trap of trying to apply for an IDP online as a quick fix. Instead, make time before your trip to apply online, visit an AAA office or apply via regular mail.
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