How to Get an International Driver’s License in the Philippines

One of the best ways to travel in Europe is by driving around. You could rent a car or buy a camper van and tour Europe at your pace. However, you’ll need an International Driver’s License or Permit to be allowed to drive abroad. Check out our guide on how to get an international driver’s license in the Philippines for your Europe Trip!

If you are from or in the Philippines, you don’t need to go to the Land Transportation Office and take another driving exam. The organization that handles the issuance of the license or permit is the Automobile Association Philippines. Learn more through our article.

What you need to get an International Driver’s License in the Philippines

• Original and photocopy of valid Philippine Driver’s License – you can get this from the LTO
• 2 pcs 2×2 colored ID with white background
• Regular AAP Membership
• Fee of Php 4,144 (1-year) or Php 9,184 (3 year) – inclusive of VAT

Additional requirements for OFWs

• Valid OFW ID
• An official receipt from POEA with OWWA Membership Fee
• They are entitled to a 20% discount on AAP Membership

Additional requirements for Foreign Nationals

• Original passport
• Photocopy of pages showing latest arrival in the Philippines
• Alien Certificate Registration (for permanent resident)

Applying through a representative

• Authorization letter
• Valid ID of representative

How to Apply for an AAP Membership

A requirement of getting an International Driver’s License or Permit is a membership in the Automobile Association Philippines. The AAP is an affiliate of Federation Internationale del’ Automobile. This will give you benefits in other countries like roadside service, personal accident insurance, and much more.

Requirements on How To be an AAP Member

• Must be 18 years old and above
• AAP Membership Application form
• 2×2 colored picture with white background
• LTO Driver’s License (with OR)
• Copy of your CR (Certificate of Registration)
• Copy of your OR (Official Receipt)
• Regular Membership Fee (VAT Inclusive)
  • 1-year Php 2,464 (Individual); Php 4,144 (PIDP)
  • 3-year Php 5,824 (Individual); Php 9,184 (PIDP)

Step by Step Guide on Applying as an AAP Member online

STEP 1: Scan the documents required like OR, CR, and your picture.

STEP 2: Go to this link.

STEP 3: Fill-up the necessary information and don’t leave anything blank. Put “N/A” of not applicable.

STEP 4: Upload your scanned documents.

STEP 5: Choose where you want your documents to be processed.

STEP 6: Take note of the reference number for your payment. And pay through the following:

Credit Card

Click the icon on the billing summary, including bank charge and transaction fee. Click Confirm to proceed with the payment.

BDO Bills Payment:

1. Company name – Automobile Association Philippines
2. Institution code – # 0136
3. Subscriber’s acct number – Reference #
4. Subscriber’s account name – your full name

BPI

AAP BPI Account Number: 0401-0050-05

Gcash

Bank Transfer to BPI Account Number: 0401-0050-05
or AAP BDO Account Number: 0015-500-592-95

Cebuana Lhuillier

Fill out the Pera Padala Form
Sender’s Name: Your Name
Receiver’s Name: AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION OF THE PHILIPPINES INC.
Transaction Type: Collection
Amount: (Amount To Be Paid)
Reference No.: The Reference Number indicated

STEP 7: Inform AAP of your payment through [email protected] and process; you can process your driver’s license.

Step by Step Guide in Getting an International Driving Permit or International Driver’s License Online

STEP 1: Gather your documents and scan them.

STEP 2: Go to this link. Do not leave anything blank; if you can’t answer, put “N/A.”

STEP 3: Submit online.

STEP 4: Pay the fee. You can follow the steps above on payment. Don’t forget to e-mail them after you pay.

• 1-year Php 4,144 (VAT inclusive)
• 3-year Php 9,184 (VAT inclusive)

STEP 5: Wait for your International Driver’s License or Philippine International Driving Permit. Claim it when it’s available.

Where you can apply for an AAP License

Quezon City Office
1-hour processing
AAP Tower 683 Aurora Boulevard, Quezon City 1112
Monday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday : 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday : 8:00 AM – 12:00 NN

Makati Office
2 to 3 working days
Unit 102 G/F Metrostar Building
1001 Metropolitan Avenue corner Kakarong Street
Makati City 1203
Monday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday : 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday : 8:00 AM – 12:00 NN

Alabang Office
2 to 3 working days
Mall Entrance, G/F Alabang Town Center
Brgy. Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa City
Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Lipa Office
2 to 3 working days
Amethyst Bldg, 2nd Flr
JP. Laurel Highway Brgy. Tambo
Lipa, Batangas
Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday : 8:00 AM – 12:00 NN

Pampanga Office
2 to 3 working days
Level 2, 21110 Robinsons Starmills
City of San Fernando, Pampanga
Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Cebu Office
4 to 5 working days
105 CRM Bldg., Escario cor. Molave Sts.
Cebu City

Davao Office
4 to 5 working days
Room 314, 3rd Floor
SM City Davao, Ecoland
Davao City

FAQs on the International Driving Permit or International Driver’s License

1. Do I still need a driver’s license even if I have an International Driving Permit?

Yes, the IDP is not a substitute for your license. It’s just a document that certifies the validity of your driver’s license from your home country to other countries.

2. Why do I need AAP Membership when I only need a Driving Permit?

Getting an IDP is an exclusive benefit of an AAP member and not the general public. You can also get emergency assistance from other affiliates of the AAP when you are abroad.

3. Can I drive in Europe?

Yes, you can drive in Europe if you have a valid Driver’s License and International drivers Permit.

4. I only have a student permit, can I use it for my application?

No, you need to have a Professional or Non-professional driver’s license.

5. When will my International Driver’s License Expire?

It depends on how many years you have chosen or together with your driver’s license, whichever is shorter. As an example, you have a 1-year IDP from January 2020, but your driver’s license is only up to October 2020, then your IDP expires in October.

6. Can I renew even when I am abroad?

Yes, you can do it online or get a representative to process it for you.

Getting an International Driver’s License is very handy, especially if you are up for a Eurotrip. With an IDP and an AAP membership, you could also have benefits and help abroad in case of emergencies. Many car rental shops require this, too. Though it’s pricey, it will genuinely be a worth-it investment! Happy Travels!

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About the Writer

Hey, I’m Lyza! I once was a person who just imagined going to places “one day” but decided to pursue my dreams. My first travel abroad was in Japan, solo, last 2018, and fell in love with the journey since. I aim to visit 10 countries before turning 30 and 2 new places in the Philippines every year. Besides traveling, I love organizing trips, taking pictures, reading, and making new friends. Follow my adventures through my Instagram.​