The International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is a globally recognised travel document issued under the authority of the United Nations. It serves as an official translation of your domestic driver’s license, making it easier for authorities in foreign countries to verify your driving credentials.An Indian citizen planning to travel abroad and drive a car or motorbike in a foreign country can obtain an International Driving Licence or International Driving Permit from the local RTO office. International Driving License is a translated copy of the original driver’s Licence that is issued by State transport licensing authority in India. In all states of India, International Driving License is issued by the concerned RTO office or Motor Vehicle Department. With an international driver’s Licence, an Indian can rent/drive vehicles when they are visiting a foreign country.
What is an International Driving License (IDL) or International Driving Permit (IDP)?
The International Driving License (IDL), officially recognised as the International Driving Permit (IDP), is a globally accepted document issued to individuals travelling abroad. Authorised by the United Nations, it serves as proof that the holder has a valid driving license in their home country. One of its key features is that it provides a translation of the license details into multiple languages, making it easier for foreign authorities to verify and understand the credentials.
This permit allows individuals to legally drive the vehicle categories mentioned in their IDP while in a foreign country. In addition to containing essential details such as the holder’s name, photograph, and driver information, the IDP also acts as a recognised form of identification in over 150 countries when presented alongside a valid national driver’s license and passport.
Documents Required for International Driving Permit
- Valid Driver’s License (original and photocopies)
- Valid Passport (original and photocopies)
- Valid Visa (if applicable, and photocopies)
- Air Ticket Copy (required for travel verification)
- Medical Certificate (Form 1A, issued by a registered medical practitioner)
- IDP Application Form (Form 4A), completed and submitted
- Recent Passport-size photographs (four copies)
- Prescribed fees (receipt of applicable charges)
How to Apply for an International Driving License in India?
Step 1: Go to https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan//en and begin the application process.
Step 2: Click on ‘Driving License Related Services’ under the ‘Online Services’ section and choose your state.
Step 3: Select ‘Apply for International Driving Permit (IDP),’ enter your driving license number, date of birth, and captcha, then agree to the terms and proceed.
Step 4: Provide the necessary documents, including your photo and signature, as per the portal’s guidelines.
Step 5: Complete the application by paying the required fee. The IDP is typically issued within four to five days after submission.
FAQs
Advantages of International Driving License?
- It certifies you to drive a vehicle in a foreign country – the IDP is accepted as proof of your driving capability and the document confirms you have a valid driver’s license in your home country.
- The IDP is useful if your original driver’s license is not in the language of your destination country. This facilitates the verification of your information by authorities in those countries.
- It can be used as a proof of identity document in the local language.
- No additional driving tests – With an IDP, you would not be required to take any additional driving tests in the countries you are visiting.
- Wide acceptance – The IDP is recognised in over 150 nations that have signed on to the agreement. Certain non-signatory nations recognise the IDP as a valid document within their borders.
- Certain countries will not allow you to rent a car unless you have an IDP.
- Insurance companies require an IDP to cover drivers of vehicles being driven abroad.
Which countries accept the IDP/IDL?
There are a number of countries that accept the IDP/IDL and allow travellers to rent and drive cars. A comprehensive list is available on the regional transport authority website and on the official websites of a country’s transport authority.