Roberta Aguirre
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a legal requirement to drive in many countries and is a valuable form of identification. It translates your identifying information into different languages, allowing you to communicate with foreign authorities. In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) is the official organization authorized to issue IDPs. You can obtain an IDP in person at your nearest AAA branch or by mail. Unfortunately, there is no information suggesting that you can obtain an IDP at the airport. It is recommended to plan ahead and obtain your IDP before your trip.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is an IDP? | An International Driving Permit (IDP), also known as an international driver's license, translates your identifying information into different languages. |
| Who issues IDPs? | The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the official organization authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs. |
| Where can I use an IDP? | An IDP is a valid form of identification in over 150 countries worldwide. |
| What does an IDP contain? | It contains your name, photo, and driver information, and translates that information into 10 languages. |
| When should I apply for an IDP? | IDPs may not be issued more than six months in advance of the desired effective date. |
| How can I apply for an IDP? | You can apply for an IDP online, in person at your local AAA branch, or by mail. |
| What documents do I need for an IDP? | You will need a valid U.S. driver's license and two original passport photos. |
| How much does an IDP cost? | The permit fee is typically $20, but additional fees may apply depending on the application method and processing time. |
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What You'll Learn
Where can I get an international driving permit?
International Driving Permits (IDPs) are issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA), the organisation authorised by the US Department of State to do so. IDPs can be obtained in person at a AAA branch office or by mail. To apply in person, you will need to bring the following to your local AAA branch: a completed IDP application form, two original passport photos, and a valid US driver's license. If you are unable to visit a AAA branch, you can mail the above documents to the nearest AAA office, along with a self-addressed pre-paid postal envelope and, if desired, additional funds for expedited return mail service.
An IDP is a valuable form of identification in over 150 countries worldwide, containing your name, photo, and driver information, and translating that information into 10 languages. Many countries require an IDP to drive legally, and fines for driving without one can be costly. It is important to check the requirements of your destination country before travelling.
It should be noted that an IDP is not a driver's license and does not replace the need for a valid, state-issued driver's license when driving abroad. An IDP accompanying a US driver’s license can only be issued in the USA, and the permit may not be issued more than six months in advance of the desired effective date.
In the case of US citizens driving in Canada or Mexico, a US driver's license is sufficient and an IDP is not required. However, for US citizens driving in other countries, it is necessary to carry an IDP along with a US driver's license.
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What documents do I need to apply for an international driving permit?
An International Driving Permit (IDP), also known as an international driver's license, is a valuable form of identification recognised in over 150 countries worldwide. It translates your identification information into 10 languages and allows you to drive in a foreign country.
If you are a US citizen, the American Automobile Association (AAA) is the official organisation authorised by the US Department of State to issue IDPs. You can apply for an IDP online, in person, or by mail through AAA. Here are the documents you will need to apply for an International Driving Permit:
- A completed application form: Download and fill out the IDP application form before submitting it to your nearest AAA branch office.
- Passport pictures: You will need to provide two original passport pictures. These are also available at AAA branch offices.
- A valid US driver's license: Ensure you have a valid US driver's license. Note that some states may have specific requirements for active-duty military personnel. Check with your state's DMV for more information.
- Photocopy of your driver's license: In addition to presenting your original license, you may need to provide a photocopy of both sides of your driver's license.
- Payment: There is typically a fee associated with obtaining an IDP. The cost may vary depending on the AAA branch, and some may only accept cash payments.
It is important to note that you cannot obtain an IDP at the airport, and the processing time can take up to a few weeks. Therefore, it is recommended to plan ahead and apply for your IDP before your travel date. Additionally, remember to carry your IDP and your US driver's license when driving abroad, as both are required in most countries.
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How far in advance can I get an international driving permit?
International Driving Permits (IDPs) are valid forms of identification recognised in over 150 countries worldwide. The document translates your identifying information into ten different languages. An IDP is not a replacement for a driver's license, and you must carry it along with your valid driver's license.
If you are a US citizen, you can obtain an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA). IDPs may not be issued more than six months in advance of the desired effective date. The application process can be done online, in person, or by mail. If you need an IDP in less than seven business days, you must apply in person at your nearest AAA branch office. The application requirements include two original passport pictures, a valid US driver's license, and a $20 permit fee.
It is important to note that IDP requirements vary depending on the country you are visiting. While a US driver's license is valid in Canada and Mexico, other countries may require an IDP for foreign drivers. Be sure to check the requirements of your destination country before your trip.
Additionally, if you are a citizen of another country and are living permanently in the US, you may be eligible to apply for a US driver's license from the state where you reside. Contact your state department of motor vehicles to understand the ID requirements and the application process for a license.
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How much does an international driving permit cost?
The cost of an International Driving Permit (IDP) depends on the method of application and the branch that you apply through. IDPs can be applied for online, in person, or by mail through the American Automobile Association (AAA).
The AAA Northeast branch charges a $20 permit fee, which can be paid in cash only. If you include a self-addressed pre-paid postal return envelope, you do not need to pay the $5 return mailing fee, making the total cost $25.
The AAA branch office also offers the option to include a fee for expedited return delivery through USPS or FedEx.
It is important to note that IDPs may not be issued more than six months in advance of the desired effective date.
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Do I need an international driving permit for my destination country?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a legal requirement to drive in many countries. It is a valuable form of identification, containing your name, photo, and driver information, and is printed in multiple languages. Most countries highly recommend an IDP, even if it is not mandatory, as it can help you communicate with foreign authorities if needed.
To determine if you need an IDP for your destination country, it is essential to research the specific requirements of that country. You can do this by checking the Department of State's website or contacting your country's embassy in the destination country. Additionally, some countries may have agreements or conventions that influence IDP requirements, such as the 1949 Convention or the Inter-American Driving Permit Convention.
If you are a U.S. citizen, you can obtain an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA) by applying online, in person, or by mail. The process typically involves submitting an application, providing passport photos, and presenting a valid U.S. driver's license. It is important to plan ahead, as IDPs cannot be issued more than six months in advance of the desired effective date, and processing times can vary.
Remember that an IDP is not a replacement for a valid driver's license. When driving in a foreign country, you will need to carry both your IDP and your state-issued driver's license. The specific rules and requirements may vary depending on the country you are visiting, so it is always best to check before your trip.
To summarise, the need for an International Driving Permit depends on your destination country's requirements. It is essential to research and plan ahead to ensure you have the necessary documentation before travelling.
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Frequently asked questions
An IDP is a document that translates your identifying information into different languages and is accepted in over 150 countries. It is not a driver's license but a valid form of identification.
IDPs are issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) in the U.S. You can apply for an IDP online, in person at a AAA branch, or by mail.
You will need a valid U.S. driver's license, two original passport photos, and a completed application form. There is also a fee for the permit, which varies by branch.
No, IDPs are not issued at airports. You must apply for an IDP in advance of your trip, and they cannot be issued more than six months before your desired effective date.
