I've been reading all the posts about getting an IDP (we're driving into Austria and I'm leaning towards being safe rather than sorry).

Does anyone know how long it takes to get it back if you mail in the application versus take it into an office? I have a NY driver's license and think the MN AAA office will give me a hard time about getting an IDP on an out of state license. (yes, yes. I should get a MN license but have only lived here a few months and you have to take a test here, so I'm putting it off).

Am I going to be out of luck, and have to get my MN license to get an IDP? I really hate the DMV....

Hi NY,

You can get your IDP through the mail:
See www.aaasouth.com/travel_drivers.asp#idp

Why should they care about the state in which your license was issued? It is basically a money maker for them..give them a call if you are worried. It took me about 5 minutes to get one in person.

If the IDP was issued by the DMV you'd be out of luck. But it isn't. AAA will only want to see a valid stateside license.

But if it worries you - apply by mail . . . .

Basically it's only a translation of any license. It doesn't matter what state. If you go to the office, it's just minutes and you walk out. They shouldn't care what state it's from.

Actually, it's not much of a moneymaker at $10 a pop considering salaries and overhead. They might even lose money on it--but they hope to sign you up for membership or get you to buy something else while you are ther.

Oh, and if you don't bring your own passport size photos, they probably make a profit on the photos they will take for you.