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IDP... a bit more planning needed in some areas

Please be aware that all physical AAA locations in WA state are closing permanently this summer.
-- Mike Beebe

If it's happening in Washington, it could be happening elsewhere

https://www.aaa.com/vacation/idpf.html
Apply by Mail
If you are not able to visit your nearest AAA branch office, your IDP can be obtained through the mail. Simply enclose the following and mail them to the AAA office nearest you (check locally for payment options):

Your completed IDP application form
Two original passport pictures each signed on the back
$20 USD permit fee***
A photocopy of both sides of your driver's license
If desired, include additional U.S. funds for expedited return mail service. See USPS.com (new tab) or Fedex.com (new tab) for rates.

Posted by
9229 posts

At one time I was told by people in the local office, that each states' AAA was owned & operated independently.

Posted by
1276 posts

We have dutifully re-upped our IDPs before every trip if we plan to or think we may want to drive, but it's so ridiculous that they expire after a year. We end up spending more on IDPs over 10 years than we do on passports!

Once you get the little folder with the translations, there is absolutely zero value-add provided by AAA. It's not like they can even confirm that a license is still valid. It's a total money grab.

That's all. Just venting. I know it's a small cost in the grand scheme, it's just another annoying thing to have to remember.

Posted by
9229 posts

AAA did not invent these things - the international community agreed to have such a thing decades ago. It's just that AAA agreed to be the US provider. I'm sure the UN will get around to catching up to the times, once they solve world peace.

Posted by
1276 posts

:-D
I bet the IDP scheme is a different department than world peace.