International Driving Licence - All You Need to Know
Updated On Nov 04, 2023
Driving abroad can really be a thrilling experience that allows you to discover a new country and culture at your own pace. Whether you are travelling for work, pleasure or studies, the ability to drive overseas gives you freedom and adaptability.
However, one must obtain an International Driving Licence (IDL) or International Driver's Permit (IDP) in order to drive legally. This is particularly crucial for Indian citizens who plan to drive overseas.
An International Driving Permit (IDP): What is it?
A globally recognised document known as an International Driving Permit (IDP) enables you to lawfully drive a motor vehicle in another country. It acts as an official translation of your Indian local driving licence into several languages, making sure it is recognised and accepted in a number of different countries throughout the globe.
Legal Requirement: In many overseas countries, Indian people who want to drive must have an IDP. In addition to assisting you in avoiding penalties and other legal issues, it guarantees that you adhere to the destination's legal driving standards.
Global Recognition: The IDP is a commonly used form of identification for drivers worldwide, with recognition in more than 150 countries.
Translation: The IDP assists in removing any language hurdles that may occur when driving in a nation where English is not the primary language. It has been translated into other languages.
Short-Term Use: It's crucial to remember that the Indian Driving Permit (IDP) is only meant to be used temporarily. Its validity period is usually one year from the date of issuance or until the expiration of the licence, whichever comes first.
IDPs are complementary to local licences; they don't take the place of them. Rather, it serves as an addendum that you have to provide your original driver's licence if foreign authorities ask for it.
Having an IDP makes travelling abroad easier and gives you confidence and peace of mind when navigating strange and new roads.
Documents needed to apply for an International driver's licence
In order to receive an International Driving Permit (IDP), you must provide certain documentation attesting to your identity, place of residence, and driving eligibility. The following are the necessary files required when you’re applying for an international driving licence:
Application Form: Form 4A, the IDP application form, must be completed. It can be obtained online at the official Parivahan website or at the local RTO.
Valid Driver's Licence: A copy of your current Indian driver's licence, issued by the regional traffic office in your area.
Provide a utility bill, an Aadhaar card, or any other legitimate proof of residency as proof of address.
Passport: Copy of your passport, which attests to your identity and legal status.
Valid visa: A valid visa for the nation you plan to visit
Air Tickets: Verification of your travel plans, such as validated airline tickets that show the dates you want to go.
Pictures: Current passport-sized pictures.
When applying in person, it is best to have both the original and photocopies of these documents with you in case the RTO needs to compare the originals with the copies.
IDP Eligibility: What’s the Criteria for an International Driver's Licence?
The following qualifying requirements must be met by applicants in order to be eligible for an international driving permit:
Age: The candidate must be at least eighteen years old.
Valid Driver's Licence: Candidates must hold a current driver's licence that was granted by an Indian RTO. The licence must be valid for a minimum of one year from the date the IDP application was submitted.
Residency: The candidate needs to be an Indian citizen.
Visa Status: In order to utilise an international driving permit in a country, you must be in possession of a valid visa for that nation.
Travel Tickets: Having valid travel tickets for the dates that correspond to the IDPs planned use.
No Pending driving Violations: The applicant should not be the subject of any pending legal actions or unresolved driving infractions.
The International Driving Permit Application Process
Getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) is a fairly simple process if all of your paperwork is in order. The steps in the application process are listed below:
Prepare Documents: Compile all of the necessary records that were listed in the preceding section.
Complete the application: Fill out the application for an IDP, Form 4A. This form can be downloaded from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways' official website or obtained through your neighbourhood Regional Transport Office (RTO).
Visit the RTO: Go to the RTO where your driver's licence was issued, together with the required paperwork and your completed application. Online appointments and submissions may be accepted by certain RTOs.
Submission and Validation: Send in your application and the supporting paperwork. The originals and the supplied copies will be verified by the RTO.
Fee Payment: The IDP application fee, which is determined by the RTO, must be paid.
Get IDP: Following approval and verification, your IDP will be mailed to the address you provided when you registered, or you might need to pick it up in person at the RTO.
Renewing Your International Driver's Licence
Indian international drivers licences are typically good for a year from the date of issuance or until the expiration of your driver's licence, whichever comes first. For IDPs, India does not yet have a renewal procedure in place. You would need to reapply using the same application process if your current IDP expired.
Nonetheless, there are a few crucial things to think about:
If you live overseas and your IDP expires, you may have to return to India in order to reapply because the application process necessitates the verification of original documentation.
When making travel plans, always make sure your IDP's expiration date is checked to make sure it will still be valid for the whole time you're overseas.
Prior to departing, it is advisable to ascertain the driving licence requirements of your destination country, as different nations may have different regulations regarding IDPs.
Countries requiring Indian drivers to get IDP
In certain countries, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is a required document for Indian drivers who intend to drive on foreign roads. In order to drive lawfully on their roads, you must present the IDP as a recognised form of identification in these nations. Here is a generic list, however since regulations might change, it's important to confirm exact requirements:
European nations: An IDP is required in the majority of European nations, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and others.
North American Countries: Foreign drivers must have an IDP in order to drive in the US and Canada.
Asian countries: South Korea, Thailand, Japan, and other countries require an IDP for drivers who are Indian.
Australia and New Zealand: In addition to a valid Indian driver's licence, both nations demand an IDP.
Gulf Countries: Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates require an IDP in order to drive.
Make sure you double-check this information with the relevant embassies or consulates, and see if there have been any updates or modifications to the driving laws in these nations.
Nations that accept Indian driver's licence
Additionally, for a limited time, visitors or tourists from India are permitted to drive in the following countries with their valid Indian driver's licence:
South Africa: The use of a genuine Indian driver's licence with English writing is permitted in South Africa.
New Zealand: Allows drivers holding a valid Indian driver's licence to drive for up to a year in English.
Singapore: Indian drivers have a maximum of twelve months to utilise their current licences.
Hong Kong: For short-term visits, Indian driver's licences are accepted.
Switzerland: Permits driving for a maximum of one year with a valid Indian driving licence.
Australia: It's important to confirm each state's unique restrictions as certain states allow the use of Indian driving licences.
Note: It's important to realise that driving laws, including those pertaining to the acceptance of international driver's licences and IDPs, can change not only from one nation to the next, but occasionally even within a single nation's states or regions. Prior to departing, make sure you are aware of the most recent driving laws in your intended location to avoid any unforeseen legal issues or hassles.
Key Differences Between IDL and Local Licences
| Feature | Local Driving Licence | International Driving Licence |
| Geographical Limitations | Valid only within the geographical boundaries of India. | Valid in over 150 countries around the world. |
| Application Process |
1. Obtain a Learner’s Licence. 2. Pass the driving test. 3. Submit the application with required documents to the RTO. |
1. Must possess a valid Local Driving Licence. 2. Complete Form 4A and submit it with necessary documents and fees. |
| Validity Period |
- 20 years from issue date or until the holder turns 50 for private vehicles. - 3 years for commercial vehicles. |
Valid for one year from the date of issue or until the Local Licence expires, whichever comes first. |
| Eligibility Criteria |
- Applicants must be 18 years or older. - Must pass the written and practical driving tests. |
- Must have a valid Local Driving Licence. - Passport and visa are required. |
| Cost |
Fees vary by state and type of vehicle but are generally low. |
The fee for obtaining an International Driving Licence is uniform but may be slightly higher than that of a Local Licence. |
Important Points to Consider Before Submitting an International Driver's Licence Application
To guarantee a seamless application procedure, take into account some crucial factors before to beginning the International Driving Permit (IDP) application process:
Validity of Local Driver's Licence: When you apply for an IDP, your Indian Driver's Licence must still be valid for at least a year.
Early Application: Submit your IDP application well in advance of the dates you intend to travel. You can avoid last-minute worry by having your IDP ready ahead of time, as the processing time can vary.
Verification: Verify your documents to make sure they are correct, current, and in order. Any inconsistencies may cause your application to be rejected or be delayed.
Legal Standing: Before submitting an application for an IDP, settle any outstanding traffic fines or other driving-related legal matters.
Country-Specific Rules: As driving laws differ from nation to nation, learn about and acquaint yourself with the driving norms and standards of the place you intend to use the IDP.
Renewal Awareness: Recall that IDPs cannot be renewed in the same way as regular licences; upon expiration, you will need to reapply.
Local RTO Application: The RTO where you obtained your local driving licence is where you must apply for the IDP.
Final Thoughts
Whether travelling overseas for business, pleasure, or education, Indian nationals who intend to drive must first obtain an international driving permit. This licence serves as a bridge, allowing you to drive legally and easily over foreign roadways when you leave India.
Recall that the IDP is not a substitute for your Indian Driving Licence; rather, it should be used in combination with it. It's a tool that verifies and interprets your current driver's licence, making sure you're accepted and allowed to drive in many different nations throughout the world.
Be sure to carefully collect and confirm all necessary paperwork before applying, as well as familiarise yourself with the requirements for eligibility. It is equally important that you familiarise yourself with the IDP criteria and driving laws of your target country. These preliminary actions will definitely clear the path for a simple application procedure and, in the end, a risk-free and delightful experience of driving abroad.
The world's roads are yours to explore after you have your international driving permit, providing you with a priceless chance to learn about and take in the diverse range of cultures, landscapes, and people from the distinct viewpoint of the driver's seat.
FAQs
Q: What is the estimated duration required to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in India?
A: Once the application is filed and accepted, the processing time may vary, but typically, it takes one to three weeks to receive your IDP.
Q: I have an Indian driving licence; may I use it in India instead of my international driving permit?
A: No, the IDP isn't valid for driving in India; it's only meant to be used for driving abroad.
Q: While travelling overseas, what should I do if my IDP is stolen or lost?
A: You should notify the local police right away if your IDP is lost or stolen, and you should get help from the closest Indian consulate or embassy.
Q: Is there a minimum age to submit an IDP application?
A: Yes, in order to be eligible for an IDP, candidates must be at least eighteen years old.
Q: Can I apply online for an IDP?
A: It is possible to complete a portion of the application procedure online, but you will still need to visit the RTO to have the original paperwork verified.
Q: If IDP expires while I'm still overseas, is it possible for me to renew it online?
IDPs cannot be renewed, sorry. You are going to have to reapply, which usually means going to the RTO in India.
Q: Is the IDP accepted everywhere?
A: Although the IDP is accepted in more than 150 nations, it's a good idea to confirm the driving laws in the particular nation you intend to travel.
What is the price of obtaining an IDP in India?
A: The cost of acquiring an IDP varies, but it's usually rather reasonable. To find out the most recent and correct fee schedule, contact your local RTO.
Q: Can I use my IDP to drive any kind of car?
A: The kinds of cars you are allowed to drive will be categorised by the IDP. The categories shown on your Indian driver's licence will determine this.
Q: What happens if I drive in a foreign nation when I need an IDP but don't have one?
A: Failure to obtain the necessary IDP while driving may result in fines, legal action, or the cancellation of your travel insurance. Always confirm that you are following the driving regulations of the nation you are visiting.