International Driving Permit India: How to Apply Online

What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official document that allows you to drive in foreign countries. It is essentially a translation of your Indian driving licence into multiple international languages and is recognized in over 150 countries that are signatories to the Geneva Convention on Road Traffic (1949) and the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic (1968).

The IDP is issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in India and is valid for 1 year from the date of issue. It is not a standalone licence — you must always carry your original Indian DL along with the IDP while driving abroad.

Who is Eligible for an IDP?

• Must hold a valid Indian driving licence (not expired, not suspended)
• Must be 18 years or older
• DL must be valid for the vehicle class you intend to drive abroad
• Your Indian DL must have a remaining validity of at least 1 year at the time of IDP application (recommended)
• Indian citizens and residents with a valid Indian DL

Note: If your DL is expiring soon, renew it first before applying for an IDP.

Countries Where Indian IDP is Accepted

The Indian IDP is accepted in countries that are part of the Geneva or Vienna conventions, including:

• Europe: UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, and most EU countries
• Americas: USA, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina
• Asia-Pacific: Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore
• Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait
• Africa: South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Egypt

Important: Some countries may require additional local permits or have specific rules. Always check the driving laws of your destination country before travelling. Countries like China and some others do not accept the IDP — you'll need a local licence.

Documents Required for IDP Application

• Valid Indian Driving Licence (original + photocopy)
• Passport (original + photocopy — first and last page)
• Valid Visa or travel documents for the destination country (if available)
• Passport-size photographs (4-6 copies, white background, as per passport specifications)
• Address proof (Aadhaar card, passport, utility bill)
• Medical Certificate in Form 1-A (from a registered medical practitioner)
• Self-declaration in Form 1
• Application in Form 4-A (available on the Sarathi portal)

Step-by-Step Process: Apply for IDP Online

1. Visit sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
2. Select your state from the dropdown
3. Click "DL Services" → "Issue of International Driving Permit"
4. Enter your DL number and date of birth
5. Your DL details will be displayed — verify them
6. Fill in Form 4-A (IDP application form) with your travel details
7. Enter the countries you plan to visit (as required by some states)
8. Upload documents (passport copy, photos, medical certificate)
9. Pay the fee online (₹1,000 approximately)
10. Book an RTO appointment
11. Visit the RTO on the appointment date with all original documents
12. The IDP will be issued — some RTOs issue it on the same day, others dispatch it via Speed Post

Fees for International Driving Permit

Note: Fees may vary slightly by state. The IDP fee was revised to approximately ₹1,000 as per the Motor Vehicles Act. Check the Sarathi portal for your state's exact fee.

IDP Validity and Renewal

• Validity: 1 year from the date of issue
• Renewal: You cannot renew an IDP — you must apply for a new IDP each time
• Extension: Not possible; apply afresh if your IDP expires while abroad
• The IDP is invalid if your Indian DL expires — ensure your DL remains valid throughout your travel period

Processing Time

Tip: Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your travel date to account for processing time and any unexpected delays.

Important Tips

1. Apply early — don't wait until the last minute; some RTOs take up to 2 weeks to issue the IDP
2. Carry both documents — always carry your original Indian DL along with the IDP when driving abroad
3. Check destination rules — some countries accept IDP for only 3-6 months; you may need a local licence for longer stays
4. IDP is not a visa — it does not grant you entry into any country; you still need a valid visa and passport
5. Vehicle class matters — your IDP will be valid only for the vehicle classes mentioned in your Indian DL

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for an IDP online without visiting the RTO?

The application is submitted online through the Sarathi portal, but you typically need to visit the RTO for document verification and IDP collection. Some RTOs may dispatch it via post.

How long is the International Driving Permit valid?

The IDP is valid for 1 year from the date of issue. It cannot be renewed — you must apply for a new one each time.

Can I drive in the USA with an Indian IDP?

Yes, the USA accepts the Indian IDP. However, rules vary by state — most US states accept an IDP for up to 1 year. For longer stays, you may need to obtain a local US driving licence.

Is the IDP valid without my Indian driving licence?

No, the IDP is not valid on its own. You must always carry your original Indian driving licence along with the IDP when driving in a foreign country.

Can I get an IDP for a two-wheeler?

Yes, if your Indian DL includes the motorcycle/two-wheeler class (MC 50CC, MC EX50CC, or LMV with MCWG), your IDP will cover two-wheelers as well.

What if I need the IDP urgently for travel next week?

Visit your RTO in person and explain the urgency. Some RTOs offer expedited processing — they may issue the IDP on the same day or within 1-2 days. Carry all original documents and the printed online application.

Disclaimer: CitizenNest is an independent informational platform and is not affiliated with the Government of India, Ministry of Road Transport, or any RTO. Information is compiled from official government sources for educational purposes. Always verify details on parivahan.gov.in before proceeding.