International Driving License India: How to Apply & List of Valid Countries

Planning to hit the road abroad? Driving lawfully in another country requires more than just your Indian driving licence, whether your route of travel is across the US or through scenic highways in Europe. That’s where the International Driving Permit (IDP) comes in, a legal document that extends your driving privileges abroad. Many nations reject a domestic licence by itself, particularly if it isn’t written in their native language. From leasing a car in Australia to driving throughout the United Kingdom, this paperwork ensures hassle-free mobility while complying with foreign road rules.

The application process for international driving license India, eligibility requirements, and accepted countries may vary slightly. That’s why this guide covers everything you need to know about applying for an International Driving Permit in India, including the necessary paperwork and where it is accepted, so you’re road-trip ready without any stress.

What is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit, or IDP, is an internationally accepted document that translates your existing licence into various languages and allows you to drive in over 150 countries. Issued under the Geneva Convention of 1949, the IDP works as a legal companion to your Indian driving licence and is a must-have for tourists and business travellers alike. The IDP includes your full name, picture, licence number, address, and a summary of the vehicle types you are approved to run.

When renting cars, dealing with local traffic inspections, or collecting insurance in case of an accident, this paperwork is particularly useful. The RTO issues the IDP for India, which is valid for one year from the date of issue. If you require it again after expiration, you will need to apply for a new one; current regulations do not allow renewals.

Who is Eligible for an International Driving Permit in India?

You have to satisfy a few basic qualifying requirements before applying for an IDP in India. Above all, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a current Indian driving licence; learner’s licences are not recognised for IDP applications.

You also have to be an Indian citizen or resident with official address documentation. Furthermore, your Indian driving licence must be valid and clean. At the time of application, there shouldn’t be any severe traffic offence cases against you or disqualifications.

Since the IDP is mostly intended for people going overseas for tourism, employment, or school, having a genuine travel intention and documentation will be crucial. Meeting these requirements ensures accurate processing at your local RTO and a valid IDP that is accepted in over 150 countries.

Documents Required for an International Driving Permit

Applying for an IDP in India successfully requires you to submit a collection of documents confirming your identification, driving eligibility, and travel intent. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Valid driver’s licence.
• Valid passport.
• Valid visa documents.
• Air tickets.
• Medical certificate (Form 1A) verified by a registered medical practitioner.
• Recent passport-sized photographs.
• Payment receipt of the application.

How to apply for an IDP in India?

It is best to apply well in advance of your travel dates, as high volumes of applications can extend processing times. Please remember that incomplete submissions cause unnecessary delays, so re-check thoroughly before proceeding with the application.

International Driving Permit Online Application

The online application process is easy: 

• Visit the official Parivahan Sewa portal.
• Click on “Online Services”.
• Choose “Driving Licence Related Services.”
• Select your state from the list, and you will be redirected to the Parivahan Sarathi portal.
• Click “Apply for International Driving Permit”.
• Enter details like driving licence number, date of birth, and the Captcha while filling out Form 4A. Once you’re done, review the terms and conditions and proceed.
• Upload scanned copies of the necessary documents (DL, passport, visa, photographs, Form 1A, and Form 4A).
• Pay the necessary fees to complete the process and keep the payment receipt for your records.
• Once submitted, you can track the status of your application online.
• After successful verification, the IDP is typically dispatched within 3 to 5 working days. You can get it mailed to your registered address or collect it from the local Regional Transport Office (RTO).

International Driving Permit Offline Application

You can opt for the offline method as well:

• Go to your local RTO.
• Request for Form 4A and fill it out.
• Attach the required documents and passport-sized photographs.
• Double-check to ensure all information entered is accurate, and then submit the form.
• Pay the application fees.
• The RTO official will verify your documents and may conduct a short interaction or verification process.
• Wait for the verification process to be completed, and then collect the International Driving Permit from the RTO. It usually takes 3 to 7 days for the application to be processed.

How to check the status of your International Driving Permit application?

You can keep tabs on the status of your application with these steps:

• Go to the Parivahan Sewa website.
• Choose “Online Services” and then “Driving licence Related Services”.
• Select the state.
• Click “Application Status” in the top right-hand corner of the page.
• Enter the application number (mentioned on the payment slip), date of birth, and the Captcha code.

The present status of your application will be displayed on the screen.

Fees and Validity of the IDP

Depending on the state and method of application, an International Driving Permit in India usually costs between Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 1,500. This fee covers the costs of processing, issuance, and verification.

The IDP is valid for one year from the date it is issued. You will need to reapply for a new IDP once it expires, using the same process and with updated documentation. Renewal is not automatic, so prepare in advance if you plan to travel again.

Countries That Accept an International Driving Permit from India

Over 150 countries accept India’s IDP, with the majority being signatories to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic.  Here are some countries that fully accept IDP:

• USA
• UK
• Switzerland
• Sweden
• Spain
• South Africa
• Singapore
• New Zealand 
• Malaysia
• Hong Kong 
• Finland
• Canada 
• Bhutan 
• Australia 
• Germany

Note: Japan, China, and South Korea do not accept the Indian IDP. For these countries, you’ll need to apply for a local driving permit or a translated licence through their embassy.

Why should you obtain an International Driving Permit?

There are numerous reasons to get an IDP, which are:

• The International Driving Permit allows you to drive legally in over 150 countries, ensuring you meet the international driving requirements. Thus, you are protected from legal complications and penalties in foreign jurisdictions.
• Renting a vehicle becomes easier if you have an International Driving Permit, as it serves as a form of identification. 
• An IDP is a must in some countries if you wish to make insurance claims in case of accidents or emergencies. Thus, it provides financial security while driving abroad.
• Since this document also serves as proof of identity, it can be used for checking in at hotels, local travel, and other purposes.

Summary:

The International Driving Permit is a globally recognised document that allows Indian citizens to drive in over 150 countries while travelling abroad legally. Valid for one year from the date of issue, it is the official translation of your Indian driving licence. Applying for an IDP requires you to be at least 18 years of age, have a valid Indian driving licence, documentation including Form 4A, passport copies, a visa, and a medical certificate.

You can complete the IDP application either online through the Parivahan Sewa site or offline by visiting your local RTO. The process is simple. Depending on the state, application costs fall from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 1,500. Once approved, the IDP can be used in countries that are part of the Geneva Convention, including the USA, UK, UAE, Australia, and Germany.

Having an International Driving Permit guarantees compliance with local rules, helps you avoid large penalties, and streamlines the verification process abroad. To be always well-prepared, always review the particular country’s criteria before your travel.

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