An International Driving Permit (IDP), also referred to as the International Driving License in India, is an essential document for those planning to drive legally overseas. It acts as an official translation of your Indian driving licence into multiple languages, making it easier for foreign authorities to verify your driving credentials. The IDP is recognised in many countries worldwide and is particularly useful in countries where English is not the primary language.
Eligibility For Obtaining International Driving Permit
According to the Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways (MoRTH), an International Driving Permit will be issued to an applicant who holds a valid Indian Licence and who is a resident of India. Here are the requirements explained in detail.
Age Requirements
To be eligible for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in India, you must meet the following age criteria:
- You must be at least 18 years old to apply for an IDP. This is a standard requirement across most countries to ensure that the applicant has sufficient driving experience and maturity to handle the complexities of driving in a foreign environment.
Valid Indian Driving Licence
Another crucial eligibility criterion is having a valid Indian driving licence. Here are the specifics:
- Full Driving Licence: You must hold a valid, full Indian driving licence. Learner’s licences are not accepted for the issuance of an IDP.
- Recent Renewal: If your driving licence is due for renewal, ensure it is renewed before applying for the IDP. An expired licence will not be considered valid for the application process.
- Licence Verification: The driving licence must be verified by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) to ensure its authenticity before the IDP is issued.
These criteria ensure that only qualified and experienced drivers are given the right to drive legally, internationally, maintaining safety and compliance with international driving standards.
Documents Required For Obtaining An International Driving Permit
- Valid Indian Driving Licence
A valid Indian driving licence is the most critical document required for applying for an International Driving Permit. Ensure your licence is up-to-date and valid throughout the period you plan to drive abroad.
2. Passport And Visa
You will need to provide:
- Valid Passport: A copy of your valid passport, including the photo and personal details page.
- Valid Visa: A copy of the visa for the country you intend to visit. This confirms your legal entry into the country where you will be using the IDP.
3. Application Form 4A
The Form 4A is the official application form for an IDP in India. You can obtain this form from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) or download it from the Parivahan Sewa website.
Form 4A Direct Download Link – Click Here.
Form 4A typically includes the following sections:
- Personal details of the applicant
- Details of the existing Indian driving licence
- Details of the country where the applicant intends to drive
- Declaration by the applicant
- Signature and photograph of the applicant
The details mentioned in Form 4A should exactly match the details mentioned in the Indian Driving Licence of the applicant.
4. Passport-Sized Photographs
Typically, you will need to provide two or more recent passport-sized photographs. These should meet the specifications set by the RTO, which usually include size, background colour, and clarity requirements.
5. Copy of Air Ticket (if required)
Some RTOs may require a copy of your air ticket to confirm your travel plans. This helps to verify the need for an IDP and ensures that it is being issued for legitimate travel purposes.
6. Medical Certificate Form 1A
One of the more important documents when applying for an IDP is a valid medical certificate, in the form of Form 1A. This form needs to be completed by a registered medical practitioner and ensures that the applicant is physically and mentally fit to drive.
Form 1A Download Link – Click Here.
By ensuring the accurate completion of Form 1A and a thorough medical examination, applicants can fulfil the necessary requirements for obtaining an International Driving Permit or other driving-related permits in India.
Filling this form is particularly necessary if there are any health-related conditions mentioned on the applicant’s driving licence.
How To Apply For The International Driving Permit (IDP)?
Online Application
- Visit the Parivahan Sewa Portal
- Go to Parivahan Sewa‘s official website.
- Navigate to the “Online Services” section and select “Driving Licence Related Services.”
- Select Your State
Choose your state from the dropdown menu to proceed to the state-specific transport department portal.
- Apply for an International Driving Permit
Click on the option “Apply for International Driving Permit” under the “Driving Licence Services” section.
- Fill the Application Form (Form 4A)
Complete Form 4A with accurate details. Ensure that all information matches your supporting documents. Details required include personal information, driving licence details, and travel details.
- Upload Required Documents
Scan and upload the following documents:- Valid Indian driving licence
- Passport and visa
- Passport-sized photographs
- Copy of the air ticket (if required)
- Medical certificate (Form 1A)
Ensure that the scanned copies are clear and legible.
- Pay the Fee
- Pay the prescribed fee for the IDP application through the online payment gateway.
- The fee generally ranges from INR 1,000 to INR 1,500. Payment can be made via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI.
- Keep the payment receipt as proof of transaction.
- Issuance of IDP
Once the verification is complete, the IDP will be issued. The IDP is typically issued within 3 to 5 working days and can be collected from the RTO or delivered to your address, depending on the RTO’s policy.
Offline Application
Visit the RTO that issued your driving licence or the one nearest to your residence.
Filling and Submitting the Application Form
- Obtain Form 4A:
- Collect Form 4A and any other required forms from the RTO.
- Fill Out the Form:
- Complete the form with accurate details and attach the necessary documents.
- Submit the Form:
- Submit the filled-out form along with the required documents to the RTO officer.
Pay the application fee of INR 1,000 at the RTO’s designated counter. Keep the receipt as proof of payment.
The RTO will then verify your submitted documents. Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.
International Driving Permit (IDP) Application Fees
The fee for obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) in India can vary slightly depending on the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Generally, the fee ranges between INR 1,000 to INR 1,500. This fee covers the processing of your application and the issuance of the permit.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the typical costs involved:
- Application Fee: This is the primary fee charged for processing your IDP application. It typically ranges from INR 1,000 to INR 1,500.
- Service Charges: Some RTOs may levy additional service charges for handling the application. These charges can vary and are usually minimal.
- Medical Certificate Fee: If a medical certificate (Form 1A) is required, you may need to pay an additional fee to the certified medical practitioner. This fee can range from INR 200 to INR 500, depending on the practitioner and location.
Mode Of Fee Payment
- Online Payment:
- If you are applying online through the Parivahan Sewa portal, you can pay the fee via various online payment methods such as credit/debit cards, net banking, or UPI. Ensure you keep the payment receipt as proof of transaction.
- Offline Payment:
- For offline applications, the fee can be paid directly at the RTO. You can usually pay via cash or a demand draft. It’s important to collect the payment receipt from the RTO.
How Long Does An International Driving Permit (IDP) Take To Process?
The processing time for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in India typically ranges from 3 to 7 working days. This timeframe can vary based on several factors, including the efficiency of the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and the completeness of your application.
Here’s a typical timeline:
- Online Application:
- After submitting your online application and attending the document verification at the RTO, the IDP is usually issued within 3 to 5 working days.
- Offline Application:
- For offline applications, the processing time can be slightly longer, usually around 5 to 7 working days, depending on the RTO’s workload.
Factors Affecting Processing Time
Several factors can influence the processing time for your IDP application:
- Document Completeness:
- Ensure all required documents are submitted accurately and completely. Any missing or incorrect documents can delay the process.
- RTO Workload:
- The volume of applications being processed at the RTO can affect the speed of issuance. RTOs with higher workloads may take longer to process applications.
- Verification Process:
- The thoroughness of the document verification process can also impact the timeframe. Ensure your documents are authentic and up-to-date to avoid delays.
- Public Holidays:
- Processing times can be extended due to public holidays or weekends when RTOs are closed.
It is advisable to apply for your IDP well in advance of your planned travel date to accommodate any unforeseen delays.
Validity Of The International Driving Permit (IDP)
The International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in India is generally valid for one year from the date of issuance. This period is standard across most countries that recognise the IDP. It is important to note that the IDP is only valid if your Indian driving licence is valid. If your Indian driving licence expires before the IDP, the permit will also become invalid.
How To Renew Your International Driving Permit (IDP)?
If your IDP expires and you need to continue driving internationally, you must apply for a new permit. Here’s process to renew your International Driving Permit (IDP):
- Visit https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/
- Select concerned state
- Click on “Services on Drivers License(Renewal)” from the “Driving License” menu
- Fill up the application form
- Click on the “Next Button” to proceed
- If required, obtain a new medical certificate (Form 1A) from a certified medical practitioner.
- Pay the renewal fee, which is generally the same as the initial application fee, ranging from INR 1,000 to INR 1,500.
- Visit RTO on the scheduled date, with original documents & Fee Slip. The processing time for renewal is similar to the initial application, usually taking 3 to 7 working days.
Imagine you obtained your IDP in January 2023, valid until January 2024, but your Indian driving licence expires in December 2023. You would need to renew your Indian driving licence first, and then apply for a new IDP to ensure continuous validity.
Countries Accepting International Driving Permit (IDP)
The International Driving Permit (IDP) is recognised in many countries worldwide. Here are some of the key countries where you can use your IDP issued in India detailed in this infograpic:
Benefits Of Having An International Driving Permit (IDP)
Having an International Driving Permit comes with several benefits. One of the main benefits of having an IDP is the act that it acts as an Identity proof in many countries. Here are the other benefits of having an IDP:
- Legality: Ensures that you are driving legally in foreign countries.
- Convenience: Helps overcome language barriers by providing your driving credentials in various languages.
- Insurance: Many car rental companies and insurance providers require an IDP for coverage.
- Peace of Mind: Provides an additional form of identification that can be helpful in case of emergencies.
For instance, if you plan to travel across Europe, having an IDP will save you from potential legal issues and streamline the process of renting a vehicle. Countries like Italy, Spain, and Germany highly recommend or require an IDP for foreign drivers.
Tips For Using Your International Driving Permit (IDP) Outside India
Carrying Essential Documents
When travelling abroad with an International Driving Permit (IDP), it’s crucial to carry the following documents at all times:
- IDP: Always keep your IDP with you while driving.
- Indian Driving Licence: The IDP is only valid when accompanied by your valid Indian driving licence.
- Passport and Visa: Keep a copy of your passport and visa in case you need to provide additional identification.
Understanding Local Traffic Laws
Different countries have unique traffic laws and regulations. Here are some general tips to help you navigate:
- Research Local Laws: Before travelling, research the driving laws of the country you are visiting. This includes speed limits, seat belt requirements, and mobile phone usage.
- Road Signs: Familiarise yourself with the local road signs and what they indicate. Many countries have signs that differ significantly from those in India.
- Driving Etiquette: Understand the local driving etiquette. For example, in some countries, it is common practice to allow pedestrians to have the right of way at all times.
Emergency Contact Information
In case of emergencies, having the right contact information is crucial:
- Local Emergency Numbers: Know the local emergency contact numbers for police, ambulance, and roadside assistance. For example, the emergency number in most European countries is 112, while in the USA, it is 911.
- Embassy Contact Information: Keep the contact details of the Indian embassy or consulate in the country you are visiting. They can assist if you encounter legal or bureaucratic issues.
FAQs on International Driving Permit (IDP)
The International Driving Permit can only be issued to an applicant who holds a valid Indian Licence and who is a resident of India. Citizens can apply for the IDP both Offline and Online by visiting the relevant RTO or Parivahan website.
The cost of obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) in India generally ranges from INR 1,000 to INR 1,500.
The International Driving Permit (IDP) is a legal document while the International Driving Licence (IDP) is not.
The International Driving Permit takes around a week to be processed and issued in India.
No, the IDP is not valid for driving in the country or jurisdiction where it was issued. It can be used in only a few foreign countries.
USA does accept IDP but the same varies state to state as per the local laws.
No, he can’t. However, with an International Driving Permit (IDP) from a country that is a signatory to the 1949 Geneva Convention, he can drive the specified vehicle category in India until the IDP expires.
The IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue or until the domestic license expires, whichever comes first.
No, an IDP in India can only be issued to a Citizen of India.
