How to get an International Driving Permit in the Philippines: The Motorist guide

How to Apply for an International Driving Permit in 2026

Step 1: Prepare the Requirements

Gather your original documents, including your valid LTO Professional or Non-Professional Driver’s License, your original Philippine passport, and two recent 2x2 colored ID photos with a white background. Make sure your local license is not expiring within the next 12 months.

Step 2: Visit an AAP Office or Apply Online

Proceed to the nearest AAP branch or utilize their official online portal. Submitting your application online allows you to upload digital copies of your requirements and opt for nationwide courier delivery, saving you a physical trip to their main office.

Step 3: Pay the AAP Fees

Settle the mandatory application fees via GCash, bank transfer, or over-the-counter payments. Because an IDP is issued exclusively to AAP members, first-time applicants must pay the standard 1-year AAP membership fee alongside the actual IDP processing fee.

Step 4: Receive Your IDP Booklet

Wait for the physical release of your multi-language booklet. If you applied in person at the main AAP office in Quezon City, the IDP can be processed and released in under two hours. Online applications delivered via courier typically arrive in 3 to 5 working days.

EXPERT TIP
Always verify if your destination country requires the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP or the 1968 Vienna Convention IDP. The Philippines issues the 1968 Vienna format, which is accepted in most countries, but strictly verifying with your rental car agency beforehand prevents travel disasters.

COMMON MISTAKE
Never leave your physical LTO driver's license at home. An International Driving Permit is essentially just a verified translation booklet; foreign police and rental agencies will instantly reject it if you cannot present your original Philippine license alongside it.

Securing your International Driving Permit through the AAP is a fast and highly organized process. By ensuring your local license is fully valid and preparing your exact fees, you can confidently drive and explore international roads on your next trip abroad.

FAQS

Q1: Where can I get an International Driving Permit in the Philippines?
You can only get an IDP through the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), either online or at their physical branches.

Q2: Can I get an IDP directly from an LTO branch?
No, the LTO does not issue IDPs; they have exclusively authorized the AAP to handle all international permit processing.

Q3: How much is the International Driving Permit in the Philippines?
For first-time applicants, the total cost is around ₱4,180, which covers both the mandatory 1-year AAP membership and the IDP fee.

Q4: How long is the IDP valid for?
An International Driving Permit is strictly valid for exactly one year from the date of issuance.

Q5: Can I use an IDP to drive in Japan?
Japan strictly requires the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP format. Since the Philippines only issues the 1968 Vienna format, you generally cannot drive in Japan using a PH-issued IDP.

Q6: Can I apply for an IDP if my LTO license is expiring soon?
No, the AAP requires your Philippine driver's license to be valid for at least one more year to process the application.

Q7: Can a foreigner apply for an IDP in the Philippines?
Foreigners must apply for an IDP in their home country. If they hold a valid LTO-converted license, they can apply, but only for countries other than their home nation.

Q8: Can a representative claim my IDP?
Yes, a representative can claim it by presenting a signed authorization letter and the original valid IDs of the applicant.

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