What is an International Driver’s License?
An International Driver’s License, also known as an International Driver’s Permit (IDP), is a travel document that is required in some countries to drive a vehicle while you are abroad. It does not replace your current driver’s license but works in conjunction with it, stating that you can legally drive in a country.
The IDP is a valid form of identification and is recognized in over 150 countries around the world. The international driver’s license is a small paper booklet about the size of a passport. It contains your name, photo, and driver information in 10 different languages, so even if you don’t speak the language, your IDP will communicate for you.
The permit is valid for up to one year from the issued date, the date written on the front of your permit. The effective date must be within 6 months of the application date.
How do you get an International Driver’s Permit?
Only two organizations can issue international driver’s licenses (permits): the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Your International Driver’s Permit must be issued in your home country. It cannot be issued by a foreign government.
Also read this post:ACADIA
There are two ways you can get an IDP.
1. In-Person
The easiest way to get your IDP is by going to a local AAA branch. You can find your closest AAA branch on AAA’s website. AAA has more than 1,000 locations in North America where you can get your IDP processed during your visit.
Before you head straight to your nearest AAA branch, you’ll first need to print and fill out an application. You can print it out online or pick it up from a AAA branch. Instructions on how to fill out the application are provided later in this article. If you already have passport photos on hand, you’ll want to grab two of them and take them with you. If not, don’t worry – AAA can take your photos for you at their branch.
Once you arrive at the branch nearest you, speak with a representative, inform them that you want an international drivers license, and they’ll take care of the rest.
2. By Mail
If there isn’t a AAA branch near you, or you can’t make it into a branch for any other reason, you can mail in your signed application along with your passport photos.
What do you need to mail in?
- International Driving Permit Application
- Two identical recent passport-type photos (2″ x 2″) signed on the back.
- A photocopy of both sides of your U.S. Driver’s License
- $20 permit fee paid by check or money order only. You cannot pay by cash if you are mailing in your application.
Where do you need to mail it?
Mail your application to your nearest AAA branch.
You’ll need to get an international driving license for each person who plans on driving. One permit works for the individual whose driver’s license information is in it. It is not transferable to a spouse, partner, friend, or car.
IDP Requirements
To qualify for an international driver’s license, you must meet some minimum requirements. First, you must be at least 18 years old. Secondly, you must hold a valid U.S. or Territorial Driver’s license.
If you meet those requirements, you are well on your way to obtaining an international driver’s permit. All you’ll have to do next is complete an application form, bring two 2 x 2 passport-type photos, and pay $20.
How Long Does it Take to Get an International Driving Permit?
Getting your IDP is a simple process and quite painless compared to a lot of other bureaucratic processes. If you’re worried about it taking too much time, there is no need to fret.
If you visit a local AAA branch, your IDP will be processed on the same day during your visit, which will only take between 10 to 30 minutes.
If you mail in your application, AAA IDP processing time usually takes between 10-15 days. I’d recommend mailing your application well in advance of your trip so you can have your IDP before you go.
Filling out the form takes between 5-10 minutes. You’ll also need two 2×2-inch passport-style photos that can be attached to your IDP. You can get this done at a variety of places, including at your local AAA branch as you are applying for your IDP, or at pharmacies such as Walgreens or CVS. Depending on where you go, this may take between 10-30 minutes.
With your application complete and your passport photos ready, you can walk into a AAA branch and leave with your international driver’s license within 10 minutes. If you mail in your application along with your photos and payment, you should receive your IDP in the mail within two weeks.
How to Get an IDP If You’re Already Abroad
If you are already overseas, you can still apply for an IDP. You will need to plan ahead, as AAA IDP processing times to receive your application range from 5-7 weeks.
I would only recommend applying for an IDP from abroad if you are an expatriate living in a foreign country, a foreign exchange student, or if you are traveling long-term for years on end.
In this case, you’ll need to send your application with the required documents to the following address:
AAA/IDP
1000 AAA Drive
Heathrow, FL 32746
Attn: Mail Stop #28
Expect to wait 5-7 weeks for return mail. Due to a recent change in U.S. Customs law impacting USPS Express International mail, FedEx will be used for most countries. You can visit FedEx.com to see shipping charges.
What Countries Require an International Drivers License?
In general, if you are traveling outside of North America, it’s a good idea to get an International Driving License. Over 150 countries accept the IDP, but some require it to rent or drive a car. Some of the more popular vacation destinations that require the IDP are:
- Italy
- France
- Germany
- Spain
- Croatia
- Greece
- Japan
- Thailand
How to fill out the AAA International Driver (IDP) Application
Filling out the International Driving Permit Application is relatively easy. Let’s quickly walk through it.
Step 1: Personal Details
In the top section, enter your first, middle, and last names, exactly as they appear on your driver’s license.
Step 2: Contact Information
Add your email address and phone number. You don’t need your license for these fields. Write down your correct contact information.
Step 3: Driver’s License Information
Refer to your driver’s license for this next section. On the third row, add your driver’s license number, state of issue, and driver’s license expiration date. All of this information will be found on the front of your license.
Step 4: Birth Date and Location
After adding your license information, you’ll need to add a few personal details including your Birthplace City, State or Country of birth, and Birth Date – written in Month, Day, and Year format (e.g. June 1, 1985).
Step 5: Home Address
Then enter your current home address followed by your City, State, and Zip Code. There is a box directly underneath those labeled Foreign addresses if known. You don’t have to worry about this field. If you are moving to a permanent residence, you can fill it out or if you know the address of your accommodation, you can fill it in here. If you don’t know your foreign address or will be driving around a lot, don’t worry about it. This field isn’t required.
Step 6: Departure Date and Permit Date
The last two boxes are important. The Departure Date from the U.S.A. is the date of your flight. Knowing this information will help you fill out the next box: Permit Effective Date. Your permit must go into effect within 6 months of your application date – meaning that your permit’s year of eligibility will begin counting down on the effective date. It is recommended that the effective date either be the same as your departure date or the day you know you will be picking up your first car rental abroad.
International Driving Permit vs. Inter-American Driving Permit
Now that the main boxes are filled out, you have just a few quick check boxes to fill – but they are important. First, you’ll need to state which type of permit you are applying for. You have two choices – either the International Driving Permit or the Inter-American Driving Permit.
To see which option you should check, you need to answer one question. Will you be driving in either Brazil or Uruguay? If you answered no, check the International Driving Permit box. If the answer is yes, select the Inter-American Driving Permit.
I repeat, check International Driving Permit unless you are going to rent or drive a car in either Brazil or Uruguay. If you plan on driving in either of those two countries you will need to select the Inter-American Driving Permit. For anywhere else in the world, choose the International Driving Permit.
Select Which Vehicles You Are Allowed to Drive
Finally, select which types of vehicles your current driver’s license is valid for. The vast majority of people will only check the Passenger Car box. This is the most common option. This means you can legally drive vehicles that hold up to 8 passengers. This is your basic driver’s license, and this is the box most travelers will need to select.
If you know you are going to be renting a motorcycle, and you have a motorcycle license, then you can select that. If you are still unsure of which vehicles you are allowed to operate, check the back of your driver’s license. It will tell you what class of license you have. You can then check AAA’s website to see what vehicles you are allowed to drive. The classes vary by state, so you’ll want to make sure you are looking at the state that issued your license.
Sign and Date the Application
Finally, the last step is to sign and date your application. If you are mailing yours in, fill out your return address information in the box in the bottom right corner. This is the address where AAA will mail your International Driving Permit. Make sure to send in both pages of the application if you mail it, or take both of them with you if you visit a branch in person.
Safe Travels
Overall, an IDP is a peace-of-mind travel document that enables you to drive legally in foreign countries. If you get caught speeding without one, you may end up with a hefty fine. It’s worth the $20 it costs to get one.
Based on our own experience, obtaining an International Driver’s Permit from AAA was a fast and straightforward process. We called our nearest branch, scheduled an appointment, and within 30 minutes, we had our IDP in hand. The representatives at the branch were friendly and ready to assist. And best of all, we felt safe and calm while we were renting our cars abroad.
With these instructions, you should be able to fill out your application and get your IDP in no time!
FAQ: AAA International Driving Permit
Is the AAA International Driving Permit Legit?
The International Driving Permit (IDP) is a valid form of identification in over 150 countries which allows you to rent and drive a vehicle abroad. The IDP is not a replacement for your national driver’s license, but an addition to it.
How Long is the AAA International Driver’s License Good For?
An IDP is valid for one year from the date it was issued.
What Countries Require an IDP?
The following countries require an IDP for foreign drivers: Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain. *IDP requirements can change at any time. If you have questions about a specific country, contact the embassy of the country you plan to visit for real-time info.
Can You Get an International Driving Permit Online?
No, you must either visit a AAA office or mail in your application to get your IDP.
The Benefits of Having an International Driving Permit (IDP)
Having an International Driving Permit (IDP) offers several key benefits for travelers planning to drive abroad:
1. Legal Driving Abroad: An IDP is a legal requirement in many countries around the world, including popular tourist destinations like Italy, France, Germany, and Japan. Without an IDP, you may be subject to fines or even have your license confiscated if pulled over by local authorities.
2. Ease of Renting Vehicles: Rental car companies in foreign countries often require an IDP in addition to your domestic driver’s license. Having an IDP can make the rental process smoother and ensure you’re able to legally operate the vehicle.
3. Language Assistance: The IDP contains your driving information translated into multiple languages, making it easier to communicate with officials or authorities if needed.
4. Peace of Mind: Obtaining an IDP provides an added layer of legal protection and assurance when driving in unfamiliar countries. This can give you greater confidence and allow you to focus on enjoying your travels.
5. Avoidance of Penalties: Driving without a valid IDP in countries that require it can result in hefty fines or other penalties. The small cost of getting an IDP is well worth avoiding these potential issues.
The Differences Between an IDP and a Domestic Driver’s License
It’s important to understand that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a replacement for your domestic driver’s license, but rather a complementary document.
Your domestic driver’s license remains the primary license you use for driving, both at home and abroad. The IDP simply translates the information on your license into multiple languages, making it easier to use in countries where your native language may not be widely spoken.
Some key differences between an IDP and a domestic driver’s license:
- Purpose: The IDP is specifically designed for international travel and driving, while your domestic license is for use within your home country.
- Validity: An IDP is typically valid for 1 year from the date of issuance, while a domestic license may have a longer validity period.
- Language: The IDP contains your driving information translated into 10+ languages, unlike a domestic license which is usually printed in your native language only.
- Legal Requirement: Many countries legally require foreign drivers to have an IDP in addition to their domestic license, while others may accept the domestic license alone.
It’s crucial to have both your domestic driver’s license and a valid IDP when driving overseas to ensure you meet all legal requirements and can easily communicate with local authorities if needed.
The International Driving Permit Application Process Step-by-Step
Now that you understand the purpose and benefits of an IDP, let’s walk through the application process step-by-step:
1. Gather Required Documents: You’ll need your current, valid U.S. driver’s license, two passport-style photos (2×2 inches), and the application fee of $20.
2. Choose Application Method: Decide whether you want to apply in-person at a AAA branch or by mail. In-person processing is faster, but the mail-in option is convenient if there’s no local AAA office.
3. Complete the Application: Fill out the International Driving Permit application form with your personal details, driver’s license info, and travel plans. Double-check that all information is accurate.
4. Submit Application: If applying in-person, simply bring the completed application, photos, and fee to your nearest AAA branch. For mail-in, send the application packet to the address provided.
5. Wait for Processing: AAA typically processes in-person IDP requests the same day, while mail-in applications take 10-15 days. Be sure to apply well in advance of your trip.
6. Receive Your IDP: Once processed, your International Driving Permit will be issued and either handed to you at the AAA branch or mailed to the address you provided.
The entire process can be completed in as little as 10-30 minutes if applying in-person, or within 2-3 weeks if submitting by mail. With a bit of advance planning, you’ll have your IDP in hand before your international travels.
