International Driver License Cost

Typical costs:

• The U.S. Department of State[2] recommends ordering an International Driving Permit from one of two authorized retailers: the American Automobile Association (AAA)[3] or the National Auto Club (NAC)[4] .
• The International Driving Permit costs $15 from either the AAA or the NAC. Add $3 for first class shipping when ordering from NAC.

• To order, the traveler should complete the application form in person or by mail. When applying by mail, applicants should photocopy both sides of a valid driver's license.
• The International Driving Permit will arrive in 10 to15 business days from the date an application is received.
• The traveler's name and photo should be included on the ID card, along with driver information translated into 10 languages.
• The IDP card from AAA or the NAC is valid for one year from date issued, and the traveler must keep his or her original driver's license up to date.
• The IDP is not a replacement for the original license; both should always be carried when driving abroad.

• For expedited shipping (one day) in the U.S., add $30. For expedited international shipping, add $75 and allow five to seven days.
• To obtain an IDP, the traveler must include original copies of two passport-size photos. The cost of two passport photos is about $15.

• To avoid paying expedited shipping fees, order an International Driving Permit from AAA[5] up to six months in advance of desired travel date. When ordering early, make sure your current U.S. license will still be valid for a period of six months past the date an IDP is given.

• An International Driving Permit is required by major car rental companies. For travelers to U.S. border countries, the NAC[6] says an IDP is required when driving more than 50 miles into Canada or 300 miles into Mexico.
• Though not required unless renting a car and driving in a foreign country, an IDP can help any traveler communicate with foreign authorities, and is therefore useful even for travelers who do not plan to drive.
• Online retailers sell the IDP, valid for one to 10 years, for $30-$75. Use caution when ordering from these companies. Some online IDP retailers are commission-based travel agencies.
• The U.S. State Department has tips on driving abroad[7] .

1.  www.aaa.com/vacation/idpapplc.html?association=undefined&clb_id=undefined&secure=N
2.  travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1179.html
3.  www.aaa.com/vacation/idpf.html
4.  www.thenac.com/idp_faqs.htm
5.  www.aaa.com/vacation/idpf.html
6.  www.thenac.com/idp_faqs.htm
7.  travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1179.html

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