Washington
WashingtonHow to get an International Driving Permit in Washington
In short
Yes, in any country that requires an IDP for foreign drivers — your Washington license alone is not enough there. The IDP is a translation of your Washington license, carried together with it. Washington drivers pair the IDP with their Washington license; across the Pacific, that pairing is non-negotiable.
Sea-Tac's Asia network makes Japan and Thailand the signature trips for Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane travelers — and both countries require an IDP alongside a US license. AAA branch coverage in Washington varies between the Puget Sound area and the east side and has been shrinking; the booklet is issued against your Washington license fully online. The IDP itself is the multilingual translation of your existing license, issued in the official UN-convention format and carried alongside it.
Last reviewed June 2026
Washington drivers — common questions
01
Do Washington license holders need an International Driving Permit?
Yes, in any country that requires an IDP for foreign drivers — your Washington license alone is not enough there. The IDP is a translation of your Washington license, carried together with it. Washington drivers pair the IDP with their Washington license; across the Pacific, that pairing is non-negotiable.
02
Can I get an IDP in Washington without going to AAA?
Yes — the whole application is online. Enter your Washington license details, pay, and your digital IDP booklet is emailed to you in as fast as 8 minutes. No appointment and no branch visit.
03
Which convention covers Washington licenses abroad?
Washington licenses are issued in the United States, which is party to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic — so your IDP is issued in the 1949 format recognized in most countries worldwide.
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