International Driving License

International Driving Permit in India: Requirements, Fees & Application Process

Written By
Divya Meena
Last Updated
Jan 22, 2025
Read
7 min

If you have ever wondered how people from India manage to drive in foreign countries, the answer lies in the International Driving Permit (IDP). An International Driving Permit (also known as an International Driving Licence) is a document containing the official translation of your Indian driving licence, allowing you to legally drive in foreign countries without further tests or applications. 

The IDP is recognised and is valid in over 150 countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia, the UK, and several countries across Europe, which are signatories or parties to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic signatories or the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. Since the IDP includes your details in multiple languages, it becomes easier for local authorities in foreign countries to verify your credentials, ensuring hassle-free driving abroad.

Whether you are planning a road trip through scenic landscapes in Switzerland or need to drive for work in the USA during your travels, obtaining an IDP is typically crucial. To simplify the process, in this blog, we have covered everything you need to know about getting an International Driving Permit in India, including both the online and offline process. 

Note: You might need a visa for your IDP, so make sure to apply for a visa through Atlys, providing a quick, secure and hassle-free visa application process.

International Driving Permit (IDP) in India: Quick Overview

What are the documents required to apply for an International Driving Permit in India?

To apply for an IDP in India, you need the following documents:

  • Copy of a valid driving license,

  • Valid Indian passport,

  • A recently taken passport-sized photograph,

  • Valid proof of visa (wherever applicable), 

  • Valid medical certificate in Form- 1A (wherever applicable), and 

  • Completely filled out Application Form- 4A.

What is the fee of applying for an International Driving Permit in India?

The International Driving Permit fee in India is approximately ₹1,000. However, this may vary slightly based on the state or the mode of application.

What is the validity of an International Driving Permit issued in India?

The IDP is generally valid for 1 year from the date of issue or until your Indian driving license expires, whichever is earlier.

How long does it take to process an International Driving Permit in India?

Once you submit your application, it generally takes up to a week to issue the IDP.

How to Apply for an International Driving Permit Online in India

Once you have gathered all the documents mentioned above, applying for an International Driving Permit (IDP) is an efficient and hassle-free online process. Here's a detailed breakdown of each step:

Step 1: Visit the official website

  • Open your web browser and go to the official Parivahan Sewa Portal, the authorised government platform for all transport-related services in India.

Applying for IDP online: Step 1

Step 2: Access the Driving License Services section

  • Navigate to the Online Services tab on the homepage. 

  • Under that, select the Driving License Related Services tab, and you will be redirected to a new page. 

Applying for IDP online: Step 2

Step 3: Select your state of residence

  • On the new page, choose your current state of residence. 

  • Then, select the option Apply for International Driving Permit (IDP) to start applying. 

Applying for IDP online: Step 3

Step 4: Review your driving license’s details

  • Upon clicking on the ‘Apply for IDP’ tab, read the information and instructions, and click on Proceed

  • Enter your driving license number, date of birth, and Captcha. 

  • After this, your driving license details will be fetched for you to review and submit. 

Applying for IDP online: Step 4

Step 5: Apply for IDP

  • After you confirm the details of your driving license, an OTP will be generated on your registered mobile number. Enter and submit the OTP.

  • Select Issue International Driving Permit from the list of services. 

  • Provide all the requested information related to your trip and the type of vehicle you plan to drive. 

Step 6: Upload the required documents

  • Scan and upload all the requested documents as per the portal's instructions, such as a valid Indian driving license, address proof, passport, etc. 

Step 7: Pay the IDP fee

  • The standard fee for an IDP application is around ₹1,000, though it may vary slightly depending on your state. Pay the fee securely online using a debit card, credit card, or internet banking.

Important Note: If an Indian citizen has been issued a driving licence within 3 months of their IDP application, they may be required to take a driving test once again when applying for the IDP. This means that you would need to visit your nearest RTO. 

Step 8: Receive your IDP

  • After submission and verification, your IDP application will be processed.

  • Once approved, the IDP will be dispatched to your registered address via postal services.

How to Apply for an International Driving Permit Offline in India

Alternatively, if you prefer to apply for an IDP offline in India, here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Visit your local RTO

Visit the RTO where your driving license was issued. Make sure to carry all the required documents, such as the original driving license, passport, and photograph. 

Step 2: Collect Form- 4A

At the RTO, ask for Form 4A, the official application form for an IDP. Alternatively, you can download Form 4A from the official Parivahan website and fill it out in advance. This can save time during your visit.

Step 3: Submit the application 

Submit your completed application form along with all attached documents and photographs. RTO officials will verify your application and documents. 

Step 4: Pay the application fee

Proceed to the fee payment counter at the RTO and pay the required fee, which is typically around ₹1,000. Keep the payment receipt as proof of your transaction. This will be helpful in case of any follow-up or discrepancies.

Step 5: Approval and issuance

Once approved, the IDP will be issued. You can either collect the IDP in person from the RTO or have it mailed to your registered address, depending on the RTO's process.

Conclusion

By now, you are well-equipped with all the necessary steps to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in India. Whether you opt for the convenience of the online process or prefer visiting your local RTO, obtaining an IDP is a simple and straightforward task.

However, when applying, make sure to double-check all your documents for accuracy and validity. Any discrepancies in your driving license, passport, or visa can cause delays in processing. Once you receive your IDP, keep it safely, along with your Indian driving license at all times when travelling abroad. Moreover, it’s equally important to familiarise yourself with the traffic rules and regulations of your destination country, as these may differ significantly from those in India.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as a regular driving license?

No, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is different from a regular driving license. 

The IDP acts as an official translation of your Indian driving license, allowing you to drive in multiple countries that recognise it legally. A regular driving license, on the other hand, is only valid within India and cannot be used for driving abroad without an IDP in most cases.

Is an International Driving Permit valid everywhere?

No, an IDP is only valid in countries signatories to the 1949 Geneva Convention or the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. Before travelling, you must check the official website of your destination country to confirm if it accepts IDP. 

Is an Indian driving license valid internationally?

An Indian driving license is valid in some countries for short-term driving, but many nations require an International Driving Permit for legal and convenient driving. Always check the specific requirements of your destination country before travelling.

Who is eligible for an IDP?

To be eligible for IDP, you must:

  • Be an Indian citizen, 

  • Be at least 18 years old, 

  • Hold a valid Indian driving license, and

  • Meet any additional requirements outlined by your local RTO.

What is the minimum age to apply for an IDP in India?

You must be at least 18 years old to apply for an IDP in India. This aligns with the minimum legal age for obtaining a driving license in the country.

Can I renew my IDP?

While an IDP is typically valid for one year, once it expires, you can apply for a reissue rather than a renewal. This means submitting a fresh application and providing updated documents through official government portals or designated consular services where applicants are living abroad. 

You must check specific guidelines and procedures in your region to ensure compliance.

What should I do if my IDP is lost or stolen?

If your International Driving Permit (IDP) is lost or stolen, promptly report the incident to the local authorities and obtain a police report, especially if you are abroad. Then, contact the agency or authority that issued your IDP to apply for a re-issue. This typically involves submitting a new application along with the required documents.

Note: While waiting for your replacement IDP, ensure you carry your national driving license and a copy of the police report with you. These documents can serve as interim proof of your driving eligibility and help in case of any inspections or legal requirements.

Can I get an IDP issued with a temporary or interim driving license?

No, an IDP cannot be issued based on a temporary or interim driving license. You need to have a permanent, valid Indian driving license to apply for an IDP.

What happens if my Indian driving license expires while my IDP is still valid?

If your Indian driving license expires, your IDP automatically becomes invalid, even if it has remaining validity. Always renew your driving license before travelling abroad.