AAA International Driving Permit Renewal: Your Options

Looking for AAA international driving permit renewal? Here is what many travellers don’t realise: an International Driving Permit (IDP) can’t be extended, by AAA or anyone else. When yours expires, you apply for a new one. This guide covers your options, including what to do if you’re short on time or already abroad.

Can AAA renew an international driving permit?

Not as an extension. An IDP issued in the United States is valid for one year from the date of issue and can’t be topped up. To renew an AAA international driving permit, you complete a new application, just as you did the first time.

In the United States, AAA and AATA are the two organisations authorised by the U.S. State Department to issue IDPs to holders of a U.S. driving licence. You don’t need to be a AAA member to apply.

Option 1: apply for a new IDP through AAA

AAA accepts applications in branch, by mail and online through its IDP website. You’ll typically need:

• a completed application form;
• your valid U.S. driving licence;
• passport-style photos, or a digital photo if you apply online;
• the application fee.

The permit is a printed booklet that is mailed to you unless you collect it in branch. Check AAA’s website for current fees, processing times and the branches that issue permits.

Option 2: apply through AATA

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the other U.S. issuer. Check its website for how to apply and current processing times, and allow time for the post.

Option 3: get a new IDP online with International DL

If your AAA permit has expired and you need a new one quickly, or you’re already outside the U.S., our IDP Renewal service works entirely online:

• upload your expired permit (we accept expired permits from any issuer), your licence, a photo and your signature;
• pay securely with Stripe or PayPal;
• a member of our team reviews your documents before anything is issued;
• your new IDP is emailed to you as a PDF that you can keep on your phone and print.

To be clear about what you get: International DL is a private company, not a government agency, and it is not affiliated with AAA or AATA. You receive a new IDP from International DL, which is a certified translation of your driving licence, valid for one year from approval with optional extra years. Acceptance depends on each country’s rules and on your rental company, so check before you travel. If your destination or rental company specifically asks for an IDP issued by AAA or AATA, use one of those.

Which option is right for you?

• You’re at home with time to spare and want a printed booklet: apply through AAA or AATA.
• You’re short on time or already abroad: an online renewal that arrives by email saves waiting for the post.
• Your U.S. licence has expired: renew it with your state first. No IDP can be issued from an expired licence.

Whichever you choose, always carry your U.S. driving licence with your IDP. The permit translates your licence; it doesn’t replace it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my AAA international driving permit online?

You can’t extend it, but you can apply for a new one. AAA takes applications online through its IDP website, and our IDP Renewal service issues a new IDP from International DL online.

Can I still use my expired AAA IDP?

No. Once its end date has passed, the permit is no longer valid. Get a new one before you drive abroad.

Will International DL renew my AAA permit?

No. We don’t extend or reissue AAA permits. We use your expired permit to check your details and issue a new IDP from International DL.

Do I need to be a AAA member to get an IDP from AAA?

No. AAA issues IDPs to members and non-members.

How long is a new IDP valid?

An IDP issued by AAA or AATA is valid for one year. A new IDP from International DL is valid for one year from approval, with optional extra years, and never beyond your licence expiry.