The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends obtaining an international driver's license, recognized in more than 175 countries, even if you don't plan to drive when you travel. The International Driving Permit translates your country's license into 10 languages and provides you with an identification form recognized by the authorities. In more than 40 countries, an international driving permit is required to rent a car.
Steps
Step 1. Check your license to be sure it will be valid for at least 6 months after the international driving permit is issued
If not, renew your license online or at your local driving school. Most governments validate driving licenses for a few years. The international driving license will not be issued for 6 months after you need it.
You must be at least 18 years old to obtain the PIG (International Driving Permit)
Step 2. In the United States it is possible to apply through two agencies:
the National Automobile Club or the American Automobile Association. When you apply, to pay for the PIG, you can provide your credit card information. Be careful to add shipping and handling costs.
If you live in a country outside the United States, International Driving Permits are usually available through your country's DMV
Step 3. Apply for an International Driving Permit at the American Automobile Association office nearest to your home
Bring your driver's license and two original passport-sized photos with you. Bring money or an alternative payment method with you, even if the price is usually relatively low.
You can also submit your application by e-mail. You will need to send the application, double-sided photocopies of the driving license and two original and signed passport-sized photos. Find the application and email address on the AAA website
Advice
An actual international driving permit is a multi-page booklet, 10x15 cm large and with a gray cover. It includes a page showing the keeper's name, place and date of birth, and residential address. This information is repeated in 9 other languages on separate pages
Warnings
- The United Nations does not issue international driving licenses. If you have obtained a document passed off as an international driving permit issued by the United Nations, you do not have a valid and legal permit.
- The US Department of State website specifies that the National Automobile Club and the American Automobile Association are the only ones to offer international driving permits in the United States. Do not pay other organizations to obtain such a permit as it may not be valid. Offers like this are usually scams, and the documents may not be legal to drive in other countries.
