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International Driving Permit Requirements for American Samoa: Complete 2025 Guide

Quick Answer: Yes, You Need an International Driving Permit for American Samoa

Foreign visitors to American Samoa must have both a valid driver’s license from their home country and an International Driving Permit (International Driving Permit) to drive legally. This dual-document rule applies to all non-American Samoa license holders, including U.S. mainland residents.

Key Requirements at a Glance

• ✅ Valid home country driver’s license (original)
• ✅ International Driving Permit (official booklet format)
• ✅ Both documents required together — neither works alone
• ✅ 30-day driving privilege for visitors
• ✅ Local temporary permit required after 30 days (via OMV)
  

📌 Important: Even U.S. citizens with state-issued licenses must carry an International Driving Permit in American Samoa. Licensing rules are set under Title 22, Chapter 02 of American Samoa law.

What Is an International Driving Permit (International Driving Permit)?

An International Driving Permit is not a license itself but a multilingual translation booklet of your existing driver’s license. It’s recognized globally under international road traffic treaties.

Key Features:

• Booklet format, not digital
• Contains your photo and driver information
• Translates details into multiple languages
• Valid in over 150 countries
• Must always be carried with your original license
  

Legal Framework:

• 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic (widely recognized)
• 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic (updated rules)

American Samoa requires the 1949 International Driving Permit format and does not issue recognition under Vienna Convention standards.

American Samoa vs. Independent Samoa

Travelers often confuse these two destinations. Here’s how they differ:

Driving Rules Based on Stay Duration

Visitors (Under 30 Days)

• Age: Minimum 18
• Documents: Home license + International Driving Permit + passport + entry stamp
• Rentals: Age 25+, 1+ year license, insurance + credit card required

Extended Stays (Over 30 Days)

• Apply for a local temporary permit from the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) in Pago Pago.
• Requirements: License, International Driving Permit, passport, form, and $20–$40 fee.
• Phone: (684) 699-9199 / (684) 699-9188

How to Get a Legitimate International Driving Permit

For U.S. Residents

• AAA (American Automobile Association) – officially authorized since 1952
• AATA (American Automobile Touring Alliance) – alternate provider
  

Requirements:

• Valid U.S. license
• Two passport photos (2x2)
• Application form
• $20 fee
• Validity: 1 year
  

For International Travelers

• Fast, 8-minute processing with us - International Driver’s Association
• Must apply in home country before departure
• International Driving Permit must match the country of license issue

American Samoa Driving Laws

Road Safety Notes:

• No tolls, but rural roads often unpaved
• Poor lighting at night, frequent flooding
• Drive slower than posted during rain
• Avoid stream crossings if roadbed not visible

Law Enforcement and Penalties

Police regularly check documents at:

• DUI checkpoints
• Rental car stops
• Airport entry verification
• Accident investigations
  

Non-Compliance Penalties:

• $100–$500 fines
• Vehicle impoundment
• Driving ban until compliant

Pre-Travel Driving Checklist

✅ Documents:

• Valid driver’s license
• International Driving Permit
• Passport (6+ months validity)
• Rental car booking with insurance
• Credit card for deposits
  

✅ Preparation Timeline:

• 60 Days: Check license expiration
• 45 Days: Apply for International Driving Permit
• 30 Days: Book car
• 14 Days: Confirm paperwork
• 7 Days: Review local traffic rules
• Day of Travel: Carry all documents
  

✅ Emergency Contacts:

• Police: 911
• OMV: (684) 699-9199
• U.S. Consular: +1-684-633-4279
• Medical: LBJ Tropical Medical Center (684) 633-1222

Conclusion

Driving in American Samoa is straightforward if you prepare correctly. Always carry both your home country license and an International Driving Permit, and remember that after 30 days you’ll need a local OMV permit. By planning ahead, you’ll avoid fines, impoundments, and insurance issues — and instead enjoy exploring Tutuila and the Manuʻa Islands safely and legally.