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AAA International Driving Permits (IDP)

Driving Overseas?

You’ll want an IDP — only available from AAA.  Apply online!

toy cars over idp, next to european passport

What’s a AAA International Driving Permit? 

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a booklet that contains your name, photo and driver information translated into 10 languages, and is accepted in 150 countries. It’s the primary permit needed to drive legally abroad, except in certain South American countries, where an Inter-American Driving Permit (IADP) may be required. The application process is the same for both, and AAA is the only organization authorized by the U.S. State Department to issue them.

Things to Know Before You Apply Online

  • Online applications must be sent in 2+ weeks prior to your travels.
  • Have your driver’s license handy.
  • The cost is $20 per IDP, a $10 photo fee, plus a shipping fee. 
  • Two separate charges will occur: one for the IDP, one later for shipping. 
  • Expect five business days for processing, plus chosen shipping time. 


Need your IDP faster than our online order turn-around? See FAQ below.

Already applied? Check the status of your IDP. 

Watch How it’s Done!

Watch this quick video to see how simple it is to get your IDP online with AAA Washington.

MORE FROM AAA

IDP FAQ

What’s the easiest way to get an IDP? 

The easiest way is to apply online in advance. It’s designed to be quick, secure, and done entirely from home. No appointments, no waiting in line, and no extra stops before your trip. If you have any questions along the way, our IDP specialists are available at IDP@AAAWA.com and typically respond quickly with personalized support. Please note that our Travel Advisors are not able to assist with IDP inquiries or applications. 


Is there an option to mail in my application? 

No, we do not accept mail in IDP applications.  


How does the online application process for an IDP work? 
  1. Click “Start Application.”

  2. You will be redirected to a GovWorks site to fill out the online application. 

  3. Fill out payment information and submit payment for the IDP/passport photos. 

  4. Take a digital passport photo of yourself, plus photos of the front and back of your driver’s license, and upload them to your application. 

  5. Digitally sign the application and submit.

  6. Once submitted, you will choose a shipping method and pay for shipping. 

  7. Wait 6 – 14+ days for delivery to your home. 

How long does it take to get an IDP? 

We recommend applying at least 2+ weeks before departure to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

• Processing: ~5 business days

• Shipping: depends on the option you select

Applying early online helps you avoid last-minute stress and ensures you’re fully prepared before your trip.


What if I need an IDP in less than 2 weeks? 

AAA Washington offers same-day IDP services at two Travel Services Kiosk locations:

Bellevue –  AAA Washington Headquarters
3605 132nd Ave SE, Bellevue WA (Please park in surface lot)
M – F: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
SAT: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Vancouver
1111 Main Street, Suite #401, Vancouver WA
M – F: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Holiday Closures
Our IDP kiosks are closed on the following holidays:
• New Year’s Day
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Presidents’ Day
• Memorial Day
• Juneteenth
• Independence Day Observed (Friday, July 3)
• Independence Day (July 4)
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Day After Thanksgiving
• December 24th (early closure at 2pm)
• Christmas Day
• December 31st (early closure at 2pm)

If a holiday closure falls on a weekday, kiosks will reopen the next scheduled business day during regular operating hours. We recommend planning ahead during holiday weeks, as demand may be higher before closures.

You must bring a valid driver’s license. To save time, you may print and fill out this form before arrival. 
 

How much does an IDP cost?

For the easiest experience, many travelers choose to apply online from home — your digital passport photo is included as part of the application process and the cost is $20 per IDP, a $10 photo fee, plus a shipping fee. In-person applications are available if IDP is needed in less than 2 weeks and cost $20 USD for the permit. Two passport photos are required which can be conveniently taken at our location for $30 (plus tax).
 

What materials will I need to gather to apply online? 

During the application process, you will need a smartphone with a camera, for taking the digital passport style photos and taking photos of your IDs. You will also need your driver’s license
 

Where do I get the AAA International Driving Permit online application form?

The AAA International Driver's Permit Application can be found at aaa-idp.com. You can easily apply online!

Is an IDP really necessary? 

In some countries, an IDP is required to legally drive; check the local laws in the country you are visiting here. Even in countries that do not require one, an IDP can still be very useful if you are stopped by local authorities or involved in a crash. Car rental companies in certain countries may also require you to have an IDP.
 

What if I have a non-Washington or Idaho driver’s license? 

No problem! If you apply online, we'll route your application to the state that issued your license, and a AAA club there will process it and ship your IDP to your home. If you apply in person at a AAA Washington Travel Services Kiosk, you may present any valid driver’s license, including one issued outside Washington or Idaho.
 

How far in advance can I order a AAA International Driving Permit? 

An IDP cannot be issued more than 6 months in advance of your travels. 
 

For how long will my IDP be valid?

An IDP is valid for one year, beginning on the date it was issued. 
 

What if I am travelling to South America? 

An IDP is valid in all South American countries except for Brazil and Uruguay. An Inter-American Driving Permit (IADP) must be issued for these two countries. The same application process is used.
 

Do I need an IDP to drive in Canada and Mexico? 

No, your US driver’s license is accepted in Canada and Mexico.