How to Apply for an International Driving Licence

TeamAckoApr 10, 2024

Are you planning to travel abroad and need an International Driving Permit (IDP)? This article will provide all the information you need to apply for an International Driving Licence in India. We'll also cover what documents are required to obtain an IDP. So let's get started.

Contents

• What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)? 
• Documents Required for Applying for an International Driving Permit
• Eligibility Criteria for an International Driving Permit
• The Application Process for an International Driving Permit
• Renewal of Your International Driving Permit
• Countries requiring IDP for Indian drivers
• Countries allowing Indian Driving Licence
• Important Things to Remember Before Applying for an International Driving Permit
• Conclusion
• FAQs

What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)? 

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an officially recognised document you can obtain in your home country to supplement any valid Driver's Licence. It serves as a translation of your local licence into multiple languages, allowing you to drive in most foreign countries.

You will need an IDP if you are planning to travel outside of your home country and take advantage of the easy way to rent a car or drive in certain places. Your regular Driver's Licence is not always recognised in different countries, so having an IDP gives you the necessary documentation and peace of mind that you are driving legally.

Since IDPs have restrictions based on the issuing country, make sure to check requirements with local authorities before travelling abroad with a valid International Driving Permit.

Documents Required for Applying for an International Driving Permit

In order to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP), it is important to first gather the necessary documents. Applicants will need to provide the following documents.

• Proof of identity

• Proof of address

• Two passport-sized photographs 

• A valid Driver’s Licence

• Copies of passport

• Form 4A

• Form 1A

• Medical certificate

All the documents must be up-to-date, in original form, and in photocopy. When all the needed documents have been gathered, applicants can begin the procedure for obtaining an International Driving Permit.

Eligibility Criteria for an International Driving Permit

Below are the eligibility criteria the applicant must meet to get an International Driving Permit. 

• The applicant should be an Indian citizen who holds a valid Driving Licence. This licence must be issued by the relevant authorities in India and must be kept up-to-date at all times. Failure to maintain a valid licence can result in legal penalties or fines.

• Be at least 18 years old.

• Be a holder of a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months from the date of application.

• In addition to these requirements, the applicant should possess valid proof of address, such as a ration card, electricity bill, or telephone bill. Also, a fee is to be paid for the application and issuance of International Driving Permits.

It is important to remember that an International Driving Permit is only valid in countries that accept it, and not all countries accept it as a valid driving document. It is also essential to check with the authorities in each country regarding any other requirements for driving legally.

The Application Process for an International Driving Permit

Here’s the application process for an International Driving Permit.

• Once the applicant has satisfied all the eligibility criteria and has gathered all the essential documents as mentioned above, they can proceed with the application process for an International Driving Permit. The process can be completed online or at the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO).

• To apply online, applicants must visit the website of their respective Regional Transport Office and fill out an application form. The applicant must also upload copies of their Driver’s Licence and other documents required for the application process. Once the application is submitted, applicants will receive an acknowledgement number that can be used to track the status of their application.

• For those who opt to apply offline, they must visit the nearest Regional Transport Office(RTO) or Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) and fill out an application form. Once all documents have been submitted, applicants will receive a receipt number which can be used to track the status of their application. 

• The RTO/MVD will check all the documents and verify the information provided by the applicant before issuing them an International Driving Permit. The process usually takes a few hours, depending on the number of applications, and can take up to 5 days sometimes. 

• Once all the documents are verified, applicants will be asked to pay a fee of Rs. 1,000 for the permit. The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue and can be renewed for another year from the expiry date by paying an additional fee.

• The applicants will then be issued an International Driving Permit. 

Renewal of Your International Driving Permit

Here are details pertaining to IDP renewal.

• For offline renewal, you will have to visit the same zonal office along with your old IDP, a valid Indian licence and passport-sized photographs. 

• For online renewal, visit www.parivahan.gov.in, and upload all the required documents.

• You will also be asked to pay a nominal fee for the renewal of the permit.

It is important to note that renewal of an International Driving Permit is subject to certain rules and regulations depending on the country they are visiting. Therefore, it is essential that applicants check with their respective Regional Transport Office regarding renewal requirements prior to travelling abroad.

Countries requiring IDP for Indian drivers

The International Driving Permit issued in India is valid in almost 150 countries. Here’s a list of a few countries that will recognise an IDP issued by India.

• The United States of America

• United Kingdom

• Switzerland

• Sweden

• Spain

• South Africa

• Singapore

• Indonesia 

• Iran

• France

• Canada

• Bhutan

• Germany 

• Malaysia

• Italy

Countries allowing Indian Driving Licence

Indian citizens are fortunate enough to be able to drive in several countries around the world with their Indian Driving Licence. It includes the following countries.

• United States of America (USA)

• Malaysia

• Germany

• United Kingdom

• Australia

• Switzerland

• New Zealand

• Sweden

• Spain

• Hong Kong

• Canada

• Finland

• Bhutan

• South Africa 

• Singapore

In these countries, Indians can drive on their roads for up to one year using their Indian Driving Licence. So if you happen to be travelling abroad and need to get behind the wheel of a car, don't forget your Indian Driving Licence.

Important Things to Remember Before Applying for an International Driving Permit

Before applying for an International Driving Permit (IDP), there are a few important things to keep in mind.

• Firstly, you must be a valid Driving Licence holder in India to be eligible for an IDP.

• Secondly, you must have all the necessary documents with you when you apply for the permit, including a valid passport and copies of its pages.

• Furthermore, it is important to know when and where to apply for an International Driving Permit. You can apply for the permit either online or by visiting the branch, depending on your location. In some cases, you may also be required to visit your local RTO office to submit your application.

• It is also important to note that obtaining an International Driving Permit can take anywhere from 2 to 7 working days.

• Lastly, make sure to check the fees associated with getting an IDP as well as its validity period before applying for it. It is essential to keep in mind that an IDP needs to be renewed periodically, depending on its validity period.

Conclusion

Applying for an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) in India is a simple and straightforward process. It requires the submission of some essential documents and a duly filled application form. The IDP is issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and is valid for up to one year. The IDP allows Indians to drive in foreign countries in accordance with the laws of those countries.

FAQs

FAQs

How long does an International Driving Permit last?

The validity of an IDP varies depending on the country you are travelling to or from. Generally, it is valid for one year from the date of issue and can be renewed for another year from the expiry date by paying an additional fee.

Is it mandatory to have an International Driving Permit to drive in a foreign country?

It may vary, depending on where you are travelling. Some countries recognise foreign Driving Licences, while others require an International Driving Permit. It is always advisable to check the driving rules and regulations of the country you are planning to visit beforehand.

Is it possible to apply for an International Driving Permit online?

Yes, in some regions, applicants can apply for an International Driving Permit online through the website of their respective Regional Transport Office. However, in some regions, the application must be made in person at the Regional Transport Office or Motor Vehicle Department.

Can I drive any type of vehicle with an International Driving Permit?

No, an International Driving Permit only allows you to drive the same types of vehicles that you are authorised to drive in your home country. For example, if you are authorised to drive a car in your home country, you can only drive a car with an IDP in a foreign country.

Can I use an International Driving Permit in all countries?

No, an International Driving Permit is only valid in countries that have signed the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic or the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. It is always advisable to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are planning to visit regarding driving rules and regulations.

Can I renew my International Driving Permit if it has expired?

It depends on the country you are visiting. Some countries allow the renewal of an IDP after its expiry, while others require a fresh application. It is always advisable to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are planning to visit regarding driving rules and regulations.

Explore More:

• Car Insurance Claim without Driving Licence & RC: Loss of License or RC Add-on

• Car insurance tips for late-blooming drivers

• RTO Office: All about Regional Transport Offices in India

Disclaimer: The above content is for informational purposes only. It is recommended to take the help of an expert before making any related decision.

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