An International Driving Permit (IDP) allows you to legally drive in foreign countries by translating your existing driver’s license into multiple languages. Foreign nationals in the Philippines can apply for an IDP to ensure hassle-free driving when traveling abroad. Understanding the application process and requirements can help you secure one more efficiently.
In this guide, you can learn more about everything you need to know about getting an IDP in the Philippines, including the benefits, procedures, fees, and additional information for dual citizens and permanent residents in the country.

What is an IDP (International Driving Permit) License?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) serves as an official translation of your Philippine driver’s license, making it easier for foreign authorities to recognize your driving qualifications. It translates your license information into ten different languages, ensuring smooth driving experiences in different countries.
Having an IDP along with your Philippine driver’s license (PDL) is not mandatory in all nations, but it can be highly beneficial in many places. After all, it also simplifies interactions with local traffic authorities and may be a requirement in some countries for legal driving.

Benefits
Having an IDP comes with numerous benefits to the holder, including but not limited to:
- The ability to bridge language barriers when driving locally and internationally.
- Traffic authorities can easily verify your driving credentials.
- Seamless driving experience without legal complications.
- Offers added confidence and security while driving in any country where IDP is acceptable.
Requirements
Some of the requirements in applying for an IDP may vary depending if it is a new application or a renewal, and also upon the residence/citizenship status of the foreign national.
Here’s a complete list of requirements for your reference:
General Requirements
For New Applicants
- Original and photocopy of a valid Philippine driver’s license (must be valid for at least one year).
- Two pieces of 2″x2″ colored ID photos with a white background.
- Processing fee: Php 4,200.
For Renewal
- The same requirements as new applicants apply for IDP renewal.
Note: Both Paper-type/Original Receipt from LTO and card-type Driver’s Licenses are both accepted.
Additional Requirements for Special Cases
Dual Citizens
- Original passport and
- Photocopies of passport pages showing your last arrival in the Philippines.
Permanent Residents
- Original passport and
- Alien Certificate Registration (ACR).
Application via Representative
- A letter of authorization signed by the applicant and
- Government-issued ID of the representative.
Note: In case the original driver’s license is unavailable, an LTO certification and the original Official Receipt must be provided.
Application Procedures
Online, via the AAP Website
Step 1. Visit the AAP Website
Go to the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) website (https://www.aap.org.ph/).
Step 2. Navigate to the Services Tab
Click on the menu, then choose the “Services” tab, and select “International Driving Permit.”
Step 3. Choose the Application Type
Depending on your preference, select from different PIDP packages (Annual, Two-Year, or Three-Year). Each package offers varying levels of emergency roadside assistance and insurance coverage. There’s also options that include AAP membership for those who are interested.
Please see the list below for information on the different IDP and Membership Packages
- Annual (PIDP) – Php 4,200: Register up to 2 vehicles. Includes 4 emergency roadside assistance services or 100-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
- Two Years (PIDP) – Php 8,100: Register up to 2 vehicles. Includes 8 emergency roadside assistance services or 200-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
- Three Years (PIDP) – Php 9,200: Register up to 2 vehicles. Includes 12 emergency roadside assistance services or 300-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
- Annual Fee (Regular) – Php 2,500: Register up to 2 vehicles. Includes 4 emergency roadside assistance services or 100-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
- Three Year Fee (Regular) – Php 5,900: Register up to 2 vehicles. Includes 12 emergency roadside assistance services or 300-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
- Annual Fee (Associate) – Php 2,000: Register up to 1 vehicle. Includes 3 emergency roadside assistance services or 60-km tow distance. Free P200,000 personal accident insurance.
- Three Year Fee (Associate) – Php 4,500: Register up to 1 vehicle. Includes 9 emergency roadside assistance services or 180-km tow distance. Free P200,000 personal accident insurance.
- Annual Fee (Membership Lite) – Php 900: Register 1 vehicle. Includes 2 non-towing interventions (flat tire change, battery boosting, fuel provision, minor repairs). Free P200,000 personal accident insurance.
- Annual Fee (Elite) – Php 5,000: Register up to 5 vehicles. Includes 8 emergency roadside assistance services or 200-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
- Three Year Fee (Elite) – Php 10,000: Register up to 5 vehicles. Includes 24 emergency roadside assistance services or 600-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
- Annual Fee (Motorcycle Package 1) – Php 600: Register 1 motorcycle (200cc and below). Includes a free AAP-Caltex SavePlus Discount Card.
Note: Some of these options come with free emergency roadside and towing services can be availed of only after 7 days from the date of activation of membership.
Step 4. Fill Out the Application Form
Complete the form with personal details, license information, and vehicle data.
Step 5. Submit and Pay Online
After submitting, choose a payment method and pay the total amount. You will receive an email confirmation after successful payment.
Walk-in (to an AAP Branch or their partner agencies)
Step 1. Make a Personal Visit to the Office
Visit the AAP office or any of their partners or AAP-accredited travel agencies.
Step 2. State your business
Let the staff know that you are coming in to apply for an IDP.
Step 3. Choose the Application Type:
Depending on your preference, select from different PIDP packages (Annual, Two-Year, or Three-Year). Each package offers varying levels of emergency roadside assistance and insurance coverage.
Step 4. Fill Out the Application Form:
Complete the form with personal details, license information, and vehicle data.
Step 5. Submit and Pay
After submitting, choose a payment method and pay the total amount.
Some of the available AAP payment options include:
- Online Payment
- Cash Payment
- Credit Card
- Banco De Oro (BDO)
- Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
- GCash
- Cebuana Lhuillier Branches Nationwide
- Check Payment
- Collector’s Pick-Up
- Paymaya
- Squidpay
Processing Time
The processing time for an IDP is relatively fast, but it is advisable to apply well before your travel date to avoid delays. Some countries may have specific requirements for driving permits, so it’s important to check with the embassy of your destination country.
Validity of the IDP
The IDP’s validity depends on the duration of your Philippine driver’s license. If your license is valid for more than a year, the IDP will be valid for one year from the date of issuance. However, if your license is valid for less than a year, the IDP will expire on the same date as your license. Renewing your IDP online is possible as long as your license remains valid.
Fees
The fees for the IDP may vary depending on the type and inclusions and if you wish to become an AAP member or not. Here are some options and their equivalent fees.
- Annual IDP: Php 4,200.
- Two-Year IDP: Php 8,100.
- Three-Year IDP: Php 9,200.
Where to Apply
Foreign nationals can apply for an IDP at the following locations:
1. Automobile Association Philippines (AAP)
The AAP has various branches nationwide where you can submit your application. These branches are located in cities like Makati, Cebu, Davao, and more. You can find a complete list of branches and contact details on the AAP website.
- List of AAP Branches
- Head Office
- Alabang
- Robinsons Cebu
- SM City Davao
- Makati
- Robinsons Starmills
- Lipa Batangas
- Ayala Fairview Terraces
- Ayala Feliz
- Ayala Marquee
- Ayala Market Market
- Robinsons La Union
- Robinsons Manila
- Southwoods
- Ayala Abreeza
- SM Calamba
- SM Sta Rosa
- Robinsons Dasmariñas
- SM Baliwag
- Ayala Manila Bay
2. AAP-Accredited Travel Agencies
The AAP also partnered with travel agencies for more convenient access to the IDP application in some parts of the country. Some of their partner agencies are as follows:
- LGCT Travel and Tours
Office Address: Unit #2 GF Hotel Rosemarie, 525 EDSA, Pasay City
Contact Number:(02) 8-785-1114 / (02) 8-775-3926 +63 917 319 1406 / +63 933 867 3046
carmentan.lgct@gmail.com
- Hello PH Travel Agency
Office Address: Unit 202 CRM N. Escario corner Molave Street, Kamputhaw, Cebu City
+63 945 299 1005 / +63 956 901 1003 / +63 999 157 7419 / +63 922 421 7576 (02) 233-4060
info@hello.ph
- DLS Travel and Tours
Office Address: Sandawa Road, Matina, Davao City
(082) 298-0021 / (082) 296-9583
dlstravelandtours@yahoo.com
- LHOYS Travel & Tours
Office Address: Main: Ground Flr., TLI Bldg., Kap. S. Luz St., Brgy. 4, Lipa City, Batangas
Branches: Level 2 Main Mall, Lipa Robinsons Place Lipa Fiesta World Mall, Marawoy
(043) 752-0609 / (043) 774-2382 +63 928 322 1987 / +63 956 726 5166
Where Can the PIDP be Used?
Here is the list of countries where the PIDP is accepted:
- Albania
- Algeria
- Andorra
- Argentina
- Australia
- Austria
- Bangladesh
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Bolivia
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Brazil **
- Bulgaria
- Canada **
- Chile
- Colombia
- Costa Rica **
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- Egypt **
- El Salvador **
- Estonia
- Finland **
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Ghana
- Greece
- Hong Kong
- Hungary
- Iceland
- India
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Iraq
- Ireland
- Israel
- Italy
- Jamaica
- Japan
- Jordan
- Kenya
- Korea (South)
- Kuwait
- Latvia
- Lebanon
- Libya
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malaysia
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua **
- Nigeria
- North Macedonia
- Norway
- Oman **
- Pakistan
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Poland **
- Portugal **
- Qatar **
- Romania **
- Russia
- Saudi Arabia
- Serbia
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Africa
- Spain
- Sri Lanka
- Sudan
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Syria
- Tanzania
- Thailand
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tunisia
- Turkey
- Uganda
- Ukraine
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
- Uruguay
- Venezuela
- Vietnam
- Yemen
- Zimbabwe
**Please note that limited validity restrictions apply to IDPs in these countries. Only (30 days, 90 days, 180 days, or as specified) even if the IDP is valid for longer. Validity restrictions also apply in Bahrain, Brunei, Gambia, Kiribati, Lesotho, Macao, Nepal, and Samoa.
Important Reminders
For your reference, here are some reminders regarding the application and use of IDP:
- While an IDP helps with driving abroad, it does not replace a driver’s license and/or a car insurance.
- Make sure you also have temporary car insurance regardless of the country you plan to visit.
- For use in countries other than the Philippines, always verify the driving requirements of your destination country, as some may need more documentation than just the IDP.
Video: How to Get an International Driving Permit from AAP in the Philippines
For a visul guide on how to get your IDP from AAP in Quezon City, please check out this video from Gentheexplorer:
Summary
Getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) in the Philippines is quite an easy process for foreign nationals. Whether you are a new applicant or renewing, having the right documents and following the proper procedures will make the process easy. With the IDP, you can drive confidently not only in the Philippines but also in numerous other countries while complying with local regulations. Just make sure to always check the requirements of your destination country first to ensure a smooth driving experience.