In our modern globalized world, driving abroad is becoming more popular, whether for work, study, or leisure. An International Driving License (IDL), commonly known as an International Driving Permit (IDP), is a crucial document that permits Indian citizens to drive vehicles in foreign countries. While many countries officially accept Indian-issued driving licenses, others need an International Driving License (IDL) for this purpose.
In countries where an Indian driving license is valid, some car rentals or local authorities may still demand an International Driving Permit. Hence, it is better to have an IDL before going on an international trip so that you do not face any legal or logistical challenges.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything related to the International Driving License in India, its advantages, necessary documents, application process, and essential tips to make the process smoother.
What is an International Driving License?
An International Driving License is a government-endorsed document that allows you, an Indian national, to operate vehicles in foreign nations. It acts as a translation of your home country’s license in several different languages, helping foreign authorities understand your credentials.
Endorsed by the United Nations Geneva Convention on Road Traffic (1949) — which India is a signatory — the IDL is valid in over 150 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, Italy and Japan.
Please note that the IDL is not a separate driving license. While driving abroad, you need to bring your original Indian driving license along with your IDL.
Advantages of an International Driving Permit
Benefits of having an International Driving License while travelling Abroad
- Legal authorization to drive in countries requiring an international driving license. For countries that do accept Indian licenses, IDL will protect you from any disputes or confusion with local authorities.
- In some countries abroad, car rental businesses will not let you rent a vehicle without an IDP. Without this document, you cannot rent travel services, which can be very inconvenient while traveling.
- An IDL is globally acknowledged evidence of driving competence and assures overseas licensing authorities that you have a valid driving license in your home country. The document can also serve as emergency identification.
Eligibility Conditions To Get An International Driving License In India
The applicant must be an Indian citizen and have a valid Indian driving license. An IDL can only be applied for by an applicant who is 18 years old or above.
A passport with a visa for the country you plan to visit is required. You are eligible to apply for an IDL only through the Regional Transport Office (RTO) that issued your original driving license or the Parivahan Sewa portal.
Documents Needed to Get an International Driving License
To apply for an International Driving License, you must submit some important documents.
- The four main documents are: completed Form 4A. In addition to this, a valid Indian driving license is to be submitted in original and photocopy.
- You are required to submit a valid passport and visa demonstrating your travel plans. You also need to submit a copy of your plane ticket or travel itinerary to prove that you will leave the country.
- Four to five passport-sized photographs taken within the last six months are required to submit the application.
- You are also required to obtain a medical certificate (Form 1A) to attest your fitness to drive, obtained from a registered medical practitioner. You also need to provide proof of address, such as Aadhaar card, voter ID, and PAN card.
- Lastly, you also have to submit a fee receipt for the payment of the application fee.
How to Apply for an International Driving License in India?
You can apply for an International Driving License through two ways:
- Through the RTO in Offline Mode
- Applying through the Parivahan website
RTO Station – Offline Application Process
- If you decide to apply for an International Driving License offline then you need the nearest RTO to your locations.
- You are required to gather Form 4A from the RTO first. This is the International Driving Permit application form. We need to complete the required information such as personal data, driving licence integrate and travel destination.
- Then, you file your paperwork. These are: valid Indian driving license, passport, visa, air ticket, and address proof. Instead, you need to take originals and photocopies of all documents.
- Then you need to attend a medical examination after submission of documents. A Form 1A will be issued by a registered medical practitioner, which certifies that you are physically and mentally fit to drive overseas.
- Then you will have to pay the application fee which is from ₹1,000 to ₹1,500, depending on the state. Please save your proof of payment because this will be the basis for your application.
- After document verification by RTO you will receive your International Driving License in 3 to 7 working The IDL will notify you when it is ready for collection.
Application Process to Be Done Online Via Pari Vahan Portal
- To make this process more user-friendly, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) provides an online application facility through the Pari Vahan Sewa portal.
- Go to the official website: https://parivahan.gov.in
- In the next window, select the option ‘Driving License Related Services. ‘ Select your state in the drop-down and follow up on the application.
- Next, click on “Apply Online” and select the “Services on Driving License” option. From this section, you can start the process of getting an International Driving Permit.
- You will be required to provide details including your personal information, driving license number and travel destination. Upload scanned copies of your documents: driving license, passport, visa and passport size photos.
- Once you have uploaded the documents, you need to submit online payment of ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 depending on your state. You will get a payment receipt and a reference number.
- In certain states, you must schedule an appointment at the RTO to complete biometric verification and submit your documents. Select one slot available to you & go visit RTO.
- You will then be notified by SMS once your application is processed and your International Driving License is issued. Visit the Parivahan portal to download the digital copy.
The International Driving License Validity
The International Driving License issued in India is valid for one year from the date of issue.
The IDL cannot be renewed once it expires. You would need to reapply using the same process.
In case your IDL is lost or damaged, take a new application for a fresh permit along with the same set of documents and pay the fee again.
International Countries that Recognize Indian Driving International License
An international driving license in India is accepted in all 150+ countries listed below:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
- Germany
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Japan
- United Arab Emirates
It is said that international driving license/ International Driving Permit is acceptable in most of the countries but before you go make sure you check whether the country you are travelling to accept it.
Things to Avoid When You Apply
- One mistake to avoid when applying for an International Driving License
- Make sure you submit all relevant and true documents. Your application may be turned down if any documents are missing or incorrect.
- And double-check the visa requirements of the country you’re visiting: Some countries have their own IDP regulations.
- It is also important that you apply well before your date of travel to make sure you are not in a rush.
International Driving License Cost in India
- An International Driving License can be obtained in India for multiple charges.
- The fee varies by state and is ₹1,000 to ₹1,500.
- The fee for medical certificates issued by a private practitioner is between ₹200 to ₹500.
- You might also end up spending on document photocopies, passport photos, printing, etc., bringing the total cost to around ₹1,500 to ₹2,500.
Conclusion
First, getting an International Driving License in India is not difficult if you know the right process and have all the paperwork in place. The process generally takes 3 to 7 days, whether you apply via the RTO or the Parivahan portal.
This is a great advantage when it comes to driving abroad, as having an IDL allows you to drive in foreign countries without causing huge troubles, rent a vehicle, and roam in a foreign location without the fuss. It is advisable to get your International Driving License at least a few weeks before your scheduled travel date so that there are no delays or issues at the last minute.
