What is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translation of your domestic Australian drivers licence photo card in nine (9) languages that assists a user to drive in a foreign country. Permits are recognised in 98% of countries around the world – driving abroad without one could be illegal and they are valid for 12 months from date of issue.

The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) is the only authorised distributor of IDPs for Australian driver licence holders. The motoring club in your state/territory will process your IDP on behalf of the AAA as their sales agent.

Do I need an IDP?

Check if the destination you’re travelling to requires an International Driving Permit
Check countries

How can I get my IDP?

1

Prepare documents

Prepare supporting documents to complete your application.

Make sure all of your photos meet the quality requirements explained in what you’ll need to apply.

2

Complete online form

Complete and submit the online application form.

If you need an IDP within the next 2 business days, you can visit a retail branch where it can be issued immediately.

3

Choose delivery or in-store pickup

Delivery

Once approved, your IDP will be delivered within 3 business days for metro areas. Please allow longer for public holidays and regional or international deliveries. You will receive a confirmation email with tracking details.

In-store pickupLimited availability - WA onlyOur in-store pickup service currently has a limited number of pickup locations as we roll it out across Australia.

Once approved, your IDP will be ready for collection within 2 business days from your selected branch.

Start your application

Tell us which state or territory you currently reside in. If you are currently overseas, select the state your driver’s licence was issue in.

What you'll need to apply

Recent photo

A recent photo of yourself with a plain white background.

Clear scan of driver licence

A clear and readable scan of the front and back of your photo card licence. We can’t accept temporary or digital licences. You’ll need to wait until you get your photo card licence before you can apply.

Credit card payment

IDPs are AUD $51 (plus postage). You can pay by Visa or Mastercard.

Acceptable
Acceptable
Acceptable
Acceptable
No glasses
No glasses
Hair obscuring face
Hair obscuring face
Background not plain
Background not plain
Insufficient contrast
Insufficient contrast

Photo requirements

  • Recent passport size photo
  • Hair cannot cover face
  • Glasses are not allowed
  • Plain white background
  • Clear, good quality image. No watermarks.

Check the Australian Passport Office requirements.

Licence photo requirements

To complete your application, you’ll need to provide a scan or photo of the both sides of your Australian photo card driver licence. Each image must be a clear and readable scan or photo of the front and back of the licence.

Frequently asked questions

Q
Why do I need an International Driver's Permit or licence?
Q
How long is an IDP valid for?
Q
Can I apply for an IDP while I'm travelling overseas?
Q
How long does it take to process or receive my IDP?
If you still have questions, you can learn more about International Driving Permits on the Australian Automobile Association’s website.

The only authorised permit for Australians driving overseas

The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) is the only authorised distributor for International Driving Permits in Australia.
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