Indian Driving License Valid Countries

Indian Driving License: Where Is It Valid and What You Need to Know

Written By
Divya Meena
Last Updated
Jan 27, 2025
Read
15 min

If you are planning an international trip, you have probably been advised to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP). While an IDP is often required for driving abroad, that’s only half true. This is because many countries allow you to drive simply by presenting a valid Indian driving license. Yes, you read that right! Some countries, like the USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore and more, accept an Indian driving license without needing an IDP.

In this blog, we have listed the top 10 countries where your Indian driving license is valid and detailed the specific traffic rules you need to know for each destination. Whether you’re travelling for leisure, work, or study, understanding these rules will save you time, money, and hassle. 

Countries Where Indian Driving License Is Valid: Quick List

  1. Singapore

  2. United States

  3. United Kingdom

  4. Canada

  5. Australia

  6. Oman

  7. Hong Kong

  8. Bhutan

  9. Germany

  10. South Africa

Indian Driving License Valid Countries: Validity, Car Rentals & Traffic Rules

Let us dive deeper into these countries' traffic rules and regulations so you can hit the road safely.

1. Singapore

Renting a Car in Singapore; Location: Upper Cross Street, Chinatown
Location: Upper Cross Street, Chinatown

Validity

An Indian driving license can be used to drive in Singapore for up to 12 months without an IDP. 

Note: Ensure your Indian driving license is valid for your intended stay in a foreign country. If not, renew it before visiting. 

Requirements for renting a car in Singapore

  • Age: You must be at least 18 years old.

  • Documents required: A valid Indian driving license, a valid passport, a Singapore visa (if applicable) and a credit card for deposits and payments.

  • Driving experience: Some rental companies may require a minimum of 1 year of driving experience. Hence, you must confirm this with the rental company you plan to choose. 

Singapore traffic rules and regulations to keep in mind

  • Drive on the left: In Singapore, vehicles drive on the left side of the road. 

  • Speed limits: The following speed limits are strictly enforced: Expressways: 80-90 km/h; Urban areas: 50 km/h; School Zones: 40 km/h; Silver Zones: 40 km/h where applicable. Check the posted speed limits to avoid penalties.

  • Traffic signs and road markings: Pay close attention to traffic signs, which are divided into categories such as mandatory, priority, prohibitory, warning, and informational. Avoid driving in bus lanes and give priority to buses when approaching the Bus Priority Boxes.

  • Seatbelts: Wearing seatbelts is mandatory for all passengers, including those seated in the rear.

  • Alcohol limit: The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.05%. Avoid drinking and driving to steer clear of heavy penalties.

  • Electronic Road Pricing (ERP): The ERP system charges vehicles entering congested areas during peak hours. Ensure your in-car unit is functional and loaded with a valid card.

  • Traffic Cameras: Singapore employs extensive use of traffic cameras to monitor speed, red-light violations, and illegal parking.

2. United States of America

Renting a car in the USA; Location: Bixby Creek Bridge, California
Location: Bixby Creek Bridge, California

Validity

In most US states, an Indian driving license is valid for up to one year for tourists. However, specific rules vary by state, which you can check on the respective State Department of Motor Vehicles

Recommended read: How to Apply for an International Driving Permit in India?

Requirements for renting a car in the USA

  • Age: Most car rental companies in the USA require renters to be at least 21 years old. However, drivers under 25 are often subject to an additional young driver surcharge.

  • Documents required: To rent a car in the USA, you will need a valid driver’s license. If you are a non-US resident, an international driver’s permit (IDP) may also be required, depending on the rental company. Additionally, you will need a national identity card (required by some rental companies) and a credit card/debit card for payment.

  • Driving experience: Most rental agencies require drivers to have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year prior to renting, and that too with an ‘acceptable driving record’ (e.g., a limited record of reckless driving or traffic rule violations). 

USA traffic rules and regulations to keep in mind

  • Drive on the right: All vehicles must drive on the right-hand side of the road.

  • Speed limits: Should be typically 30 mph unless otherwise posted. Speed limits for highways range from 55-75 mph, depending on the state and road type. Some rural interstates allow speeds up to 85 mph (e.g., Texas).

  • Seatbelts: Mandatory for all passengers, regardless of seating position.

  • Child safety restraints: Children under 1 year and under 20 lbs. must be in a rear-facing car seat, and booster seats are required for children up to 8 years or 57 inches tall, depending on state regulations.

  • Right on red: Turning right at a red light is allowed unless explicitly prohibited by a sign. Yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic before turning.

  • Alcohol and drug impairment: A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is illegal for drivers over 21 years. For drivers under 21, many states enforce zero-tolerance laws.

  • Distracted driving: Texting while driving is banned in most states, and hands-free devices are mandatory in several states. Also, avoid eating, grooming, or interacting excessively with passengers while driving.

3. United Kingdom

Renting a car in the UK; Location: Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland, UK
Location: Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland, UK

Validity

An Indian driving license holder can drive for up to 12 months in the UK without needing an IDP.

Requirements for renting a car in the UK

  • Age: Most car rental companies in the UK require drivers to be at least 21 years old. To have access to all types of cars, a minimum age of 25 might be required by some rental companies. 

  • Documents required: To rent a car in the UK, you will need a valid Indian driver’s license and a credit or debit card in the renter’s name for payment and deposit purposes. Some companies may require proof of identity, such as a passport and, in some cases, a UK visa.

  • Driving experience: Rental agencies in the UK generally require drivers to have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year. 

UK traffic rules and regulations to keep in mind

  • Drive on the left: In the UK, all vehicles must drive on the left-hand side of the road. This also applies to pedestrians crossing roads, who should check traffic from the right first.

  • Roundabouts: Always give way to traffic approaching from the right unless otherwise indicated by road signs or markings.

  • Speed limits: Urban areas: 30 mph (48 km/h); single carriageways: 60 mph (96 km/h); dual carriageways and motorways: 70 mph (112 km/h). In Wales, certain residential areas have a reduced limit of 20 mph (32 km/h).

  • Seatbelts: Mandatory for all occupants, regardless of seating position. Each passenger must use a seatbelt or child restraint appropriate for their size or age.

  • Child safety seats: Required for children under 135 cm (4'5") or under 12 years old, whichever comes first.

  • Alcohol and drug limits: A limit of 80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, there is a stricter limit of 50 mg alcohol per 100 ml of blood. Moreover, driving under the influence of drugs (including certain prescription medications) is illegal and heavily penalised.

  • Mobile phone and device use: It is illegal to hold or use any device capable of sending/receiving data while driving, including phones or tablets. This applies even when stopped at traffic lights or in a queue. Devices can be used hands-free with Bluetooth, voice commands, or dashboard mounts, provided they do not obstruct your view.

4. Canada

Renting a car in Canada; Location: Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Location: Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

Validity

Indian driving licenses are generally valid for up to 60-90 days in most Canadian provinces.

Requirements for renting a car in Canada

  • Age: Most car rental companies in Canada require drivers to be at least 21 years old. 

  • Documents required: You need a valid driver’s license, original passport and a credit card in the renter's name. Some rental agencies may request additional identification, such as a valid Canadian visa.

  • Driving experience: Most rental agencies in Canada require drivers to have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year. 

Canada traffic rules and regulations to keep in mind

  • Drive on the right: In Canada, all vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. 

  • Speed limits: Urban areas: generally 30-50 km/h; highways: 80-100 km/h, with some tolerance for speeds up to 120 km/h on major highways. Also, the minimum highway speed is 60 km/h unless otherwise posted. 

  • Seatbelts: Mandatory for all vehicle occupants. Ensure proper child restraint systems for children based on their age, weight, and height.

  • Alcohol and drug limits: The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. However, many provinces enforce stricter limits (e.g., 0.05% in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario). Driving under the influence of drugs, including cannabis, is illegal. 

  • Road signage and turning rules: Turning right on a red light is permitted in most provinces except Montreal and locations with specific signage prohibiting it. A flashing green light means you have the right-of-way to make a left turn, unlike a steady green, which requires yielding to oncoming traffic.

  • Distracted driving: Using handheld mobile devices while driving is strictly prohibited and heavily penalised. Hands-free devices are allowed as long as they do not obstruct the driver’s view. Smoking while driving is still permitted, but it is discouraged, particularly when children are in the vehicle, as some provinces have proposed or enacted bans.

5. Australia

Renting a car in Australia; Kangaroo Ahead: Warning Sign in Australia
Kangaroo Ahead: Warning Sign in Australia

Validity

Indian licenses are valid for an indefinite period for temporary visitors in most Australian states and territories as long as they are valid (along with the visitor’s visa). 

However, in the Northern Territory, a local license is required after three months unless an exemption is granted.

Requirements for renting a car in Australia

  • Age: Most car rental companies in Australia require drivers to be at least 21 to drive light vehicles; otherwise, the minimum age requirement is 25 for driving all types of cars. 

  • Documents required: A valid Indian driver’s license, identity proof and a credit card in the renter’s name are mandatory to rent a car in Australia.

  • Driving experience: Rental agencies in Australia typically require drivers to have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year. Additional experience may be necessary for renting high-performance or speciality vehicles.

Australia traffic rules and regulations to keep in mind

  • Drive on the left: In Australia, vehicles are driven on the left-hand side of the road. 

  • Speed limits: The default speed limit in urban areas is 50 km/h unless otherwise signposted. On highways, the limit typically ranges between 100–110 km/h. Speed limits must be strictly observed as police regularly enforce them using speed cameras, radar, and laser devices.

  • Seatbelts: Wearing seatbelts is mandatory for all occupants of a vehicle. Drivers are responsible for ensuring that all passengers comply with this rule. 

  • Alcohol limit: The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for full-license drivers is 0.05%. Driving under the influence of drugs, including certain prescription or over-the-counter medicines, is also illegal and severely penalised.

  • Mobile phones: Using a mobile phone while driving significantly increases the risk of crashes and is strictly prohibited. Hands-free or Bluetooth functionality is allowed for full-license holders only. 

  • Penalties for traffic offences: Severe penalties, including fines, demerit points, license suspension, and imprisonment, apply for traffic offences such as speeding, drunk driving, or using mobile phones unlawfully. Repeat offences attract harsher penalties.

Recommended read: If you are planning a road trip in Australia, make sure to thoroughly read The Driver’s Handbook by the Australian Department of Infrastructure and Transport. 

6. Oman

Renting a car in Oman; Location: Muscat, Oman
Location: Muscat, Oman

Validity

An Indian driving license can be used to drive a car in Oman for up to 3 months

Requirements for renting a car in Oman

  • Age: To rent a car in Oman, drivers must be at least 21 years old. Some rental companies may require drivers to be 23 or older, depending on their policies and the type of vehicle. 

  • Documents required: Renters need a valid driving license, a copy of their original passport, an Oman tourist visa, and a credit card in the renter’s name for payment. 

  • Driving experience: Most car rental companies in Oman require drivers to have held a valid driving license for at least one year. 

Oman traffic rules and regulations to keep in mind

  • Driving side: In Oman, vehicles drive on the right side of the road. 

  • Speed limits: Oman enforces specific speed limits in urban areas: 40-80 km/h; rural areas: 90 km/h; highways: Up to 120 km/h. Speed cameras, both fixed and mobile, monitor these limits strictly.

  • Seatbelt: It is mandatory for all occupants of the vehicle to wear seatbelts. Children under 10 years old must sit in the rear seats, while children under 4 must be provided with car seats. 

  • Drunk driving: Oman enforces a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol while driving. A BAC level above 0% is considered illegal and can result in jail time (up to one year) and a fine of OMR 200.

  • Mobile phone usage: Using mobile phones while driving is strictly prohibited unless done through hands-free devices. 

  • Turn signals and traffic lights: Turn signals must be used well in advance of making a turn. Traffic lights must always be adhered to, and drivers should be mindful of red-light violations.

  • Overtaking: Overtaking is permitted only on the left side, and overtaking on yellow lines or islands is strictly prohibited. Heavy vehicles have additional restrictions on overtaking.

7. Hong Kong

Renting a car in Hong Kong; Location: Cross-Harbour Tunnel, Hong Kong
Location: Cross-Harbour Tunnel, Hong Kong

Validity

An Indian driving license can be used to drive in Hong Kong for up to 12 months without needing an IDP. However, an IDP is recommended for ease of verification.

Requirements for renting a car in Hong Kong

  • Age: Minimum age is 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 25.

  • Documents required: A valid Indian driving license, original passport, Hong Kong visa (varies by rental companies), and a credit card in the renter’s name.

  • Driving experience: Rental companies generally require a minimum of 1-2 years of driving experience.

Hong Kong traffic rules and regulations to keep in mind

  • Drive on the left: Vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road in Hong Kong. Always remain in your lane unless overtaking, turning right, or passing stationary vehicles.

  • Speed limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h; major roads and highways: 70–100 km/h. Always adhere to posted limits, as speeding violations are strictly penalised.

  • Seatbelts: Wearing seatbelts is mandatory for all passengers, including those seated in the rear. Drivers are responsible for ensuring compliance.

  • Alcohol limit: The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.05%. A zero-tolerance policy applies to novice or professional drivers.

  • Mobile phone usage: Using handheld mobile devices while driving is illegal. Hands-free devices are permissible, but drivers must keep conversations brief and maintain full attention on the road.

  • Traffic signals and lane discipline: Strict adherence to traffic lights and lane markings is required. Avoid driving in Bus-only lanes. Look out for marked "Bus Lane" signs. 

  • Use of horns: Only use the horn as a warning. Horn use is prohibited in "Silent Zones" (e.g., near hospitals).

  • Headlamp flashing: Flashing headlamps should only be used to indicate your presence, similar to horn use.

8. Bhutan

Renting a car in Bhutan; Location: Thimphu, Bhutan
Location: Thimphu, Bhutan

Validity

Indian driving licenses are valid in Bhutan.

Note: Renting a car in Bhutan as a foreigner is prohibited unless accompanied by a Bhutanese-licensed driver. The alternative is to bring your own car from India into Bhutan, for which you will need the necessary permits and documentation.

Requirements for taking a car from India to Bhutan

  • Required documents: You will need to carry a valid Indian driver’s license, insurance papers, PUC certificate, Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) and authorization letter (if the vehicle is not owned by you), along with the Butan Entry Permit

  • Charges & guide: You will be charged Nu. 4,500 per car per day (approximately ₹4,500). Also, having a licensed Bhutanese guide at all times is also mandatory (additional charge).

  • Vehicle condition: The vehicle must be roadworthy and meet Bhutan’s transport authority standards.

Bhutan traffic rules and regulations to keep in mind

  • Drive on the left: Bhutan follows left-hand driving. 

  • Speed limits: Urban areas: 20–30 km/h; highways: 50 km/h. Speed limits are strictly enforced, and roads often have clear English signages.

  • Seatbelts: Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.

  • Alcohol limit: The BAC limit is 0.08%, but it’s best to avoid drinking altogether while driving. Drunk driving is heavily penalised.

  • Overtaking: Avoid overtaking on narrow or winding roads unless absolutely safe. Many roads are steep and have limited visibility.

  • Traffic signals: There are no traffic lights in Bhutan. Traffic cops on podiums regulate traffic in towns like Thimphu. 

  • Roundabouts: Roundabouts are present mostly in towns and are easy to navigate. Always yield to vehicles already in the roundabout.

  • Mobile phone usage: Using handheld mobile devices while driving is prohibited. Hands-free devices are allowed but must not distract the driver.

  • Driving at night: Night driving is not recommended due to poor lighting, potential fog, and landslide risks. Roads are often isolated, and encountering other vehicles is rare, which can feel spooky.

9. Germany

Renting a car in Germany; Location: German Highway
Location: German Highway

Validity

An Indian driving license is valid in Germany for up to 6 months without requiring an IDP. After six months, a local German license may be necessary.

Requirements for renting a car in Germany

  • Age: The minimum age for car rental is 21, but some rental agencies may require drivers to be 25 for premium vehicles.

  • Documents required: A valid Indian driving license, passport, and a credit card in the renter’s name.

  • Driving experience: Drivers must have held a valid license for at least 1 year.

Germany traffic rules and regulations to keep in mind

  • Drive on the right: Vehicles in Germany drive on the right-hand side of the road.

  • Speed limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h; rural roads: 100 km/h.

  • Seatbelts: Mandatory for all passengers, including those in the rear. Child seats are compulsory for children under 12 or shorter than 150 cm unless exempt (e.g., no space for a third child seat or use of special belts for disabled children).

  • Alcohol limit: Novice drivers (less than 2 years experience or under 21): 0.0 mg/ml BAC. Standard drivers: 0.5 mg/ml BAC (penalties escalate above 1.1 mg/ml, treated as a crime). Professional drivers: 0.0 mg/ml BAC.

  • Mobile phone usage: Handheld mobile phones while driving are prohibited. Hands-free devices are allowed, but use must not distract the driver.

  • Autobahn rules: Always maintain lane discipline. Overtake only from the left. Emergency lanes are reserved strictly for emergencies unless expressly permitted by signage.

  • Safety equipment: Carrying a first aid kit, warning triangle, and reflective vest is mandatory for all vehicles. 

  • Horn use: Use only to warn of danger, not as a rebuke.

10. South Africa

Renting a car in South Africa
Wild Animals Ahead: Caution Signal in South Africa

Validity

An Indian driving license is valid in South Africa for up to 3 months, along with a "certificate of validity" issued by the Indian High Commission in South Africa.

Requirements for renting a car in South Africa

  • Age: The minimum age for car rental is 18. Drivers under 25 may incur an additional fee.

  • Documents required: A valid Indian driving license, passport, and a credit card in the renter’s name. Indians also need a certificate of validity, which can be obtained by filling in the form titled "Driving License Application Form", along with submitting a copy of your passport and a copy of the original driving license at the Indian High Commission in South Africa. 

  • Driving experience: Rental companies often require a minimum of 1 year of driving experience.

South Africa traffic rules and regulations to keep in mind

  • Drive on the left: Vehicles in South Africa must be driven on the left-hand side of the road. Overtaking should always be done on the right.

  • Speed limits: Urban areas: 60 km/h; secondary roads: 100 km/h; highways (freeways): 120 km/h.

  • Seatbelts: Mandatory for all passengers, including rear-seat occupants. Children under 3 must be in a child restraint system. Children over 3 and shorter than 1.5 meters must use appropriate restraints.

  • Alcohol limit: The BAC limit for standard drivers is 0.05%, and for novice drivers, it is 0.02%. Drunk driving is heavily penalised and often results in fines, imprisonment, or license suspension.

  • Mobile phone usage: Using handheld mobile phones while driving is prohibited. Hands-free systems are allowed but should not distract the driver.

  • Wildlife caution: Exercise caution on rural and game reserve roads as wild animals may cross unexpectedly. Always reduce speed near game reserves or animal crossing signs.

  • Traffic lights and road signs: Traffic lights, often referred to as “robots” in South Africa, must be obeyed strictly. Pedestrians have the right of way at zebra crossings. Drivers must yield to them.

  • Emergency lane use: Emergency lanes are strictly reserved for breakdowns or emergencies unless permitted by road signs.

  • Driving at night: Night driving is generally safe but should be avoided in rural areas due to poor lighting and potential hazards like wildlife. Use reflective warning triangles and ensure headlights are functioning correctly.

Conclusion

You now have the list of top 10 Indian tourist destinations where you can rent and drive a car using a valid Indian driver’s license. However, as you must have noticed, having a driver’s license is not enough! You also need to ensure that it has been issued at least a year prior, reflecting your 1-year experience as a 4-wheeler driver. Also, make sure to carry all necessary documents at all times and follow local rules to avoid penalties and ensure safety. 

Whether it's the disciplined roads of Singapore or the rugged terrains of Oman or Bhutan, you are now equipped to explore with confidence. Remember, responsible driving and preparation are key to making your trip stress-free and memorable.

Is an Indian driving license valid worldwide?

No, only some countries allow driving with an Indian license alone. Others require both an Indian driving license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Can I rent a car with an Indian license?

Yes, in countries like the USA, the UK, Canada, and Australia, you can easily rent a car with an Indian driving license, but additional documents (like proof of identity) may be required.

Are there age restrictions for renting cars abroad?

Most countries require renters to be at least 21 years old, and additional ‘young driver’s fees’ may apply for drivers under 25 in many countries.

Are there special requirements for Indians driving in Bhutan?

Indian citizens cannot rent cars in Bhutan without a Bhutanese driver. However, you can bring your own vehicle from India with the necessary permits.

Can I use my Indian license in the USA?

Yes, Indians can use their driving license in the USA for up to one year in most states, but specific rules vary by state.

Can I drive in Australia with an Indian license?

Yes, with an Indian driving license, you can drive in Australia indefinitely as a temporary visitor in most states, provided your license remains valid.

Can I use my Indian license in South Africa?

Yes, Indians can use an Indian driving license for up to three months in South Africa, but you’ll also need a "certificate of validity" from the Indian High Commission.