Do I need to be a AAA member to apply?

No, anyone with a valid U.S. driver’s license can apply.

Can I apply if I’m not an Alaska resident?

Yes, but you must apply in the state where your driver’s license was issued.

International Driving Permit in Alaska

Q: How long is the IDP valid?

An International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date of issue.

Getting an IDP at AAA Office in Alaska

AAA is one of two organizations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue International Driving Permits. In Alaska, the following AAA branch issues IDPs in person:

AAA Anchorage Branch
317 W 104th Ave Suite 400
Anchorage, AK 99515
Phone: (907) 344-4310
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Sat 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
IDP service available 📍 Get directions

💡 Heads up: AAA's IDP service varies by branch and changes over time. Green badges below were verified at the time of writing; phone the office before visiting to confirm same-day service. You can also check the official locator at aaa.com/office.

To apply, bring your valid Alaska driver's license, two passport-sized photos (2"x2"), the completed IDP application form, and the $20 fee. Most IDP-issuing branches complete the permit the same day.

Visit AAA IDP Page

Getting an IDP from AATA (by Mail)

The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the other federally authorized IDP issuer. AATA has no offices in Alaska, but accepts applications by mail from anywhere in the United States. Send your completed application to:

AATA – IDP Department
16300 SW Langer Drive, Suite 130
Sherwood, OR 97140

Include a copy of your valid Alaska driver's license (front and back), two passport photos, the completed application form (download from the AATA website), and a check or money order for the $20 fee. Processing and return mail usually take 2–3 weeks.

Visit AATA Website

Fastest Way to Get an IDP in Alaska

The quickest route is to walk into the Alaska AAA office marked "IDP service available" with all your documents. Same-day issuance is typical when the office has booklets in stock. Outside Anchorage, mail-in (through AAA or AATA) is usually faster than flying in. A nearby out-of-state AAA branch can also process your Alaska license — AAA is a federal program and any U.S. AAA branch may issue your IDP.

No AAA or AATA Nearby?

If no AAA branch is convenient and you cannot wait for AATA's mail processing, you may come across third-party "instant IDP" services online. These documents are not officially recognized by the U.S. Department of State and most foreign governments.

          ⚠️ Important: Unofficial IDPs may cause issues at border control, with rental car companies, or with local police. Use them only as a last resort and understand the risks.
        

If you must use an alternative service, research it thoroughly: verified reviews, transparent refund policy, and a real company address. The only officially recognized IDPs in the U.S. come from AAA or AATA.

Comparison of AAA vs AATA in Alaska

Feature	AAA	AATA
Application Method	In-person at Alaska branches marked "IDP available" or by mail	By mail only
Processing Time	Same day (in-person)	2–3 weeks
Fee	$20	$20

Cities in Alaska

Find the nearest AAA office (including offices just over the state line) for any Alaska city with population 5,000 or more:

Anchorage 289,600
Badger 19,482
Bethel 6,450
College 12,964
Eagle River 24,793
Elmendorf Air Force Base 6,621
Fairbanks 32,325
Gateway 5,552
Homer 5,515
Juneau 31,555
Kalifornsky 7,850
Kenai 7,661
Ketchikan 8,197
Knik-Fairview 14,923
Kodiak 6,253
Lakes 8,364
Meadow Lakes 7,570
Palmer 6,788
Sitka 8,863
Sterling 5,617
Tanaina 8,197
Wasilla 9,284

22 cities listed.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a AAA member to get an IDP in Alaska?

No. Any holder of a valid U.S. driver's license can apply at a AAA branch that issues IDPs — membership is not required.

Is an IDP valid in Alaska?

An IDP, paired with a valid foreign driver's license, lets visitors drive in Alaska for a limited period. Alaska residents must obtain a Alaska driver's license through their state DMV.

Which AAA office in Alaska issues IDPs?

Anchorage — see the addresses above (offices marked green). Call ahead to confirm IDP booklets are in stock the day you plan to visit.

How long is the IDP valid?

Exactly 1 year from the date of issue. You must carry it together with your original driver's license whenever you drive abroad.

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