International Driving Permit Application Guide for Indians

Planning to drive abroad? An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translation of your Indian driving licence into multiple languages, recognized under the Geneva Convention 1949 and Vienna Convention 1968. India issues IDPs through regional RTOs, and the permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. It does not replace your Indian DL — you must carry both while driving overseas.

What Is an International Driving Permit?

An IDP is essentially a booklet that translates your driving licence into several international languages. It is recognized by over 150 countries as a valid supplement to your national licence. The IDP itself is not a standalone licence — it must always be presented alongside your original Indian driving licence.

India issues IDPs under the Geneva Convention 1949. Some countries follow the Vienna Convention 1968 instead, and a few recognize both. Before traveling, confirm which convention your destination country follows and whether they accept Indian-issued IDPs.

Eligibility and Requirements

Any Indian citizen holding a valid permanent driving licence can apply for an IDP. Learner's licences are not eligible. Your DL must be valid for at least the duration of your intended stay abroad. The IDP is issued for the same vehicle categories as your existing DL.

• Must hold a valid Indian permanent driving licence
• DL should not expire during the intended travel period
• Indian passport required as proof of identity
• Visa or travel ticket to the destination country
• Applicant must apply at the RTO that issued their DL

Countries That Accept Indian IDP

Most countries in Europe, North America, Australia, and Southeast Asia accept the Indian IDP. Notable exceptions include China and Brazil, which require separate local procedures. In the United States, an IDP is accepted in all states as a supplementary document, but some car rental companies may have their own policies.

• USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand
• Most European Union countries
• UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and other Gulf nations
• Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan
• South Africa, Kenya, and many African nations

Validity and Limitations

The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue or until your Indian DL expires, whichever comes first. It cannot be renewed — you must apply afresh each time. Some countries also have residency-based restrictions: if you stay longer than a certain period (often 3-6 months), you may need to obtain a local driving licence.

Documents Required

• Valid Indian DL — Original permanent driving licence (not LL)
• Indian Passport — Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining
• Visa Copy — Approved visa for the destination country (or travel booking)
• Passport-Size Photos — 3-4 recent photographs (some RTOs require 5)
• Application Form — Form for IDP available at the RTO or downloaded from Parivahan
• Medical Certificate — Form 1A from a registered medical practitioner

IDP Fee Structure

How to Apply for IDP

1. Gather Documents: Collect your DL, passport, visa copy, photos, and medical certificate.
2. Visit Your RTO: Go to the RTO that issued your driving licence. IDP applications are currently offline in most states.
3. Submit Application: Fill the IDP application form and submit with all documents and photographs.
4. Pay the Fee: Pay ₹1,000 at the RTO counter or through the designated payment method.
5. Collect the IDP: The IDP booklet is typically issued within 3-7 working days. Some RTOs issue it on the same day.

Important Tips

• Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your travel date to avoid delays
• Carry both your IDP and original Indian DL when driving abroad
• Check if your destination country accepts the Indian IDP before applying
• The IDP alone is not valid — it is always used alongside your national DL
• For long stays abroad, look into converting to a local licence in that country

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

An International Driving Permit is a simple, affordable document that makes driving abroad hassle-free. Apply early, ensure your Indian DL is valid, and always carry both documents together when driving in another country.