How do I get an International Driving Permit in the US and how much does it cost?
The short answer
AAA lists a $20 USD permit fee whichever way you apply. Online applications add a $10 photo fee and any shipping, in person adds sales tax where applicable, and mail adds optional expedited return postage. USA.gov says an IDP is valid for one year and cannot be renewed.
Who can issue it
USA.gov says the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the two organisations authorised by the US Department of State to issue IDPs. It warns that many other websites are fraudulent and may try to scam you out of money or personal information.
Costs, according to AAA
AAA lists the following costs, and tells applicants to confirm exact fees with their branch.
- Online: $20 USD permit fee, plus a $10 passport photo fee and applicable shipping.
- In person: $20 USD permit fee, plus sales tax if applicable.
- By mail: $20 USD permit fee, plus optional expedited return mail fees.
What to bring and how long it takes
Online, you need a completed signed application, a digital passport photo taken with a smartphone, photos of the front and back of your licence, and payment. AAA says to allow 5 business days for processing plus return shipping.
In person, bring a completed application, two original passport photos, a valid US driver's licence and the $20 fee. AAA says to call the branch first to confirm IDP services, and advises visiting a branch if you need an IDP within 7 business days or less.
By mail, send a completed application, two original passport photos signed on the back, the $20 fee and a photocopy of both sides of your licence. AAA says an IDP may not be issued more than six months in advance of the desired effective date.
Validity and eligibility
USA.gov says an IDP is valid for one year and cannot be renewed. The AAA official page did not state the validity. AAA says you must hold a valid US driver's licence and that it cannot issue an IDP to someone whose licence was issued abroad, such as in the United Kingdom. The AAA page did not say whether membership is required.
UK and EU drivers should check their own national guidance for how to get an IDP. Rules and fees change, so check the official page linked below before you travel.
Sources: AAA: International Driving Permit, USA.gov: International driver's license. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an IDP cost from AAA?
AAA lists a $20 USD permit fee. Online orders add a $10 photo fee and shipping, and in person may add sales tax.
How long is an IDP valid?
USA.gov says one year, and it cannot be renewed.
How long does an online application take?
AAA says to allow 5 business days for processing plus return shipping.
Can I get one the same day?
AAA advises visiting a branch if you need an IDP within 7 business days or less, and says to call first to confirm IDP services. The official page did not promise same day issue.
How far ahead can I apply?
AAA says an IDP may not be issued more than six months in advance of the desired effective date.
Which websites are safe to use?
USA.gov says to use AAA or AATA, the two organisations authorised by the State Department, and warns that many other sites are fraudulent.