How to Apply for International Driving Permit (IDP) in India

Planning to drive abroad? You'll most likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP) — a document that translates your Indian driving licence into multiple languages so foreign authorities can understand it. Here's everything you need to know about getting one.

Already have a driving licence? If not, first check our guide on how to apply for a driving licence. If your licence has expired, see how to renew your driving licence.

What is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) — sometimes called an International Driving Licence — is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) that allows you to drive in foreign countries. It is essentially a translation of your Indian driving licence into several international languages as per the Geneva and Vienna conventions.

Important: An IDP is not a standalone licence. You must always carry your original Indian driving licence along with the IDP when driving abroad.

Who Needs an IDP?

You need an International Driving Permit if you are:

• An Indian driving licence holder planning to drive in a foreign country
• Going abroad for work, tourism, or studies and want to rent or drive a car
• Relocating temporarily to another country and need to drive before getting a local licence

You do not need an IDP if:

• You are only travelling as a passenger
• The country you're visiting has a bilateral agreement with India that accepts Indian driving licences directly (very few countries)
• You already hold a valid driving licence issued by that country

IDP Validity & Countries

Countries Where IDP is Accepted

The IDP is accepted in most countries that are signatories to the Geneva or Vienna conventions. This includes:

• North America: USA, Canada
• Europe: UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, and most EU countries
• Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain
• Asia-Pacific: Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia
• Africa: South Africa, Kenya, and many others

Tip: Always check the specific driving rules of your destination country before travelling. Some countries may require additional documents or have specific rules for IDP holders.

Documents Required

Keep these documents ready before applying:

Mandatory Documents

1. Valid Indian Driving Licence (original + photocopy)
2. Valid Passport (original + photocopy of first and last page)
3. Valid Visa of the country you're visiting (photocopy)
4. Passport-size photographs — 4 to 6 recent colour photos (as per RTO requirement)
5. Address proof — Aadhaar card, utility bill, or bank statement
6. Application form (Form 4-A) — available at RTO or downloadable from Parivahan

Additional Documents (may be required at some RTOs)

• Air ticket or travel itinerary (proof of travel)
• Medical certificate (Form 1-A) — required for certain vehicle categories or if your DL doesn't have one
• Age proof — if not mentioned on your driving licence

How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)

You can start your IDP application on the Sarathi Parivahan portal:

Step 1: Visit the Sarathi Portal

Go to sarathi.parivahan.gov.in and select your state.

Step 2: Select "International Driving Permit"

From the services menu, choose "IDP (International Driving Permit)" or "Apply for IDP".

Step 3: Enter Your Driving Licence Number

Enter your existing DL number and date of birth. The system will fetch your details.

Step 4: Fill the Application Form

Fill in:

• Passport details
• Visa details
• Countries you plan to visit
• Travel dates

Step 5: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of:

• Passport (front and last page)
• Visa copy
• Passport-size photo
• Address proof

Step 6: Pay the Fee Online

Pay the IDP fee of approximately ₹1,000 via net banking, debit/credit card, or UPI.

Step 7: Book RTO Appointment

After payment, book a slot at your nearest RTO. You will need to visit the RTO in person to collect the IDP.

Step 8: Visit the RTO

On your appointment date, carry all original documents for verification. After verification, your IDP will be issued.

How to Apply at RTO (Offline)

If you prefer to apply directly at the RTO:

1. Visit your nearest RTO during working hours
2. Collect Form 4-A (Application for International Driving Permit) from the counter or download it from the Parivahan website
3. Fill the form completely and attach passport-size photographs
4. Submit the form along with photocopies of all required documents
5. Pay the fee at the RTO counter (₹1,000 approximately)
6. Document verification — the RTO officer will verify your original documents
7. Collect your IDP — usually issued on the same day or within 2-3 working days

Pro tip: Reach the RTO early in the morning to avoid long queues. Carry extra photocopies of all documents.

Fees

Fees may vary slightly by state. Payment can be made online or at the RTO counter.

Processing Time

Most RTOs issue the IDP on the same day if all documents are in order and you apply in person.

IDP vs Foreign Country Driving Licence

Bottom line: If you're visiting a country for a short time (tourism, short work trip), an IDP is sufficient. For long-term stays, you should eventually get a local driving licence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Carrying IDP without your Indian DL — The IDP is not valid on its own. Always carry both.
2. Applying with an expired driving licence — Your DL must be valid. Renew it first if needed.
3. Not checking destination country rules — Some countries have specific requirements beyond just the IDP.
4. Wrong vehicle category — Make sure your IDP covers the vehicle type you plan to drive abroad.
5. Applying too late — Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your travel date to be safe.
6. Not carrying passport-size photos — RTOs often need extra photos. Carry 6 to be safe.
7. Assuming IDP works everywhere — A few countries don't recognise IDP and require their own licence or permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I apply for IDP without a passport?

No. A valid passport is mandatory since the IDP is for international use. You need passport details on the application.

Q2: Is the IDP valid for all types of vehicles?

The IDP is valid for the same vehicle categories mentioned in your Indian driving licence. If your DL is for LMV (Light Motor Vehicle), your IDP will also be for LMV only.

Q3: Can I apply for IDP from any RTO in India?

You should apply from the RTO that issued your driving licence or the RTO under whose jurisdiction your current address falls.

Q4: Is a medical certificate mandatory for IDP?

A medical certificate (Form 1-A) is required for transport vehicle categories. For private/LMV categories, it is generally not needed, but some RTOs may ask for it. Check with your RTO.

Q5: Can I drive in India using an IDP issued by another country?

Yes, foreign nationals with an IDP issued by their home country can drive in India for up to 1 year. They must also carry their original foreign driving licence.

Q6: What if my IDP expires while I'm abroad?

You cannot renew an IDP from abroad. You'll need to return to India and apply for a fresh IDP, or get a local driving licence in that country.

Q7: Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International Driving Licence?

Yes, both terms refer to the same document. The official term used in India is "International Driving Permit."

The IDP is a simple document to get if you have your paperwork ready. Start your application early, keep all original documents handy, and you'll have your permit in no time. Safe travels and happy driving abroad!