U.S. travelers planning to get behind the wheel while overseas have a convenient new option for obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Previously, you had to apply either in person or by mail.
Now you can apply for the document online.
Accepted by scores of countries around the world, an IDP—sometimes referred to as an international driver's license—simply translates the information on your state-issued license into 10 different languages.
Some countries require foreigners to have an IDP in order to drive there or to rent a car.
In the U.S., AAA is the "official organization authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs," according to the government's info page. You don't have to be a AAA member to apply.
How to Apply for an International Driving Permit Online
There are three ways to apply for an IDP: in person at a AAA branch, by sending in a printed application through the mail, or via the newest option—online.
To go the latter route, visit aaa-idp.com and complete the online form. Make sure you steer clear of scam sites falsely claiming to have government authorization.
To apply online, you'll need a smartphone equipped with a camera in order to submit a digital passport-style photo as well as images of the front and back of your current, state-issued driver's license.
You'll have to pay a fee of $20 for the permit, plus $10 for photo processing, for a total of $30. There might be a shipping cost as well.
Within 5 business days, you should receive your IDP in the mail. Only physical copies are available—don't expect a digital version.
There's no driving test required. An IDP doesn't replace the regular driver's license you use in the U.S.—in fact, you'll need to bring along that license, too, if you plan to operate a car in another country.
How to Know if You Need an IDP
Many international travelers say enforcement of IDP requirements is spotty, but partly because an IDP can serve as an official translation of your license, drivers without the document could be denied access to rental cars or even fined if pulled over by police in places where an IDP is supposed to be mandatory.
To find out what your destination requires of drivers, the U.S. government recommends going to the State Department's travel website and searching for the country you'll be visiting. On that country's info page, scroll to the "travel and transportation" section for the lowdown on licenses.
Even if no officials ever ask for your IDP during your trip, it's smart to stay on the safe side.
For more info on International Driving Permits, including instructions on applying in person or by mail (now known as the long way), go to AAA.com.