International driving permit from India
By Ganesh ·
How to get an International Driving Permit in India: who can apply, documents, the online Parivahan Sarathi steps, fee and validity, which countries need one, and scooter rules abroad.
The short answer: an International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translation of your Indian driving licence, recognised in most countries, that lets you drive or rent a car abroad. You apply at your Regional Transport Office (RTO), starting online on the Parivahan Sarathi portal, with your valid Indian licence, passport, visa (where needed), air ticket and photos. The fee is around ₹1,000, it is often issued the same day or within a few days, and it is valid for up to one year. Always carry your original Indian licence along with it.
Fees, documents and country rules below are approximate. Check with your RTO and the country you're visiting.
What an IDP is (and isn't)
An IDP is a booklet that translates your licence into several languages in a standard format agreed under the international road traffic conventions. It is not a licence on its own: it is valid only with your original Indian driving licence, and only for the vehicle classes on that licence. If you only have a car licence, you can't use an IDP to ride a scooter abroad.
Who can apply
- Indian citizens with a valid permanent driving licence (not a learner's licence).
- You must apply in India, at the RTO that issued your licence or the one for your current address.
- You need a valid passport, and, for many RTOs, a visa and ticket showing travel plans.
Documents you'll typically need
- Original and a copy of your valid driving licence.
- Passport (copy of the first and last pages) and a valid visa where applicable.
- Air ticket or travel itinerary.
- Passport-size photographs.
- Address proof, and a medical certificate (Form 1A) where your RTO requires it.
- The application form (Form 4A), generated online.
How to apply, step by step
- Go to the Ministry of Road Transport's official portal, sarathi.parivahan.gov.in, choose your state, and select Apply for International Driving Permit under licence services.
- Enter your licence number and date of birth, check the details, and fill in the passport, visa and travel information.
- Upload documents and photos, and pay the fee online (around ₹1,000).
- Book a slot if your RTO asks you to visit, and take the originals for verification.
- Collect the IDP. Many RTOs issue it the same day or within a few working days; some post it.
Apply at least two to three weeks before you fly, in case your RTO takes longer.
Validity
The IDP is valid for up to one year from the date of issue, or until your Indian licence expires, whichever comes first. Many countries also limit how long a visitor may drive on a foreign licence and IDP (often three months to a year).
Where you need one
- Usually required, or strongly advised: most of Europe, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia (Bali), Vietnam, South Korea, the UAE and many others, and car-rental companies often ask for one even where the law doesn't.
- English-language Indian licence often accepted for short visits: the UK, the US (rules vary by state), Australia, New Zealand and some others, but an IDP avoids trouble with rental desks and police.
- Not enough: a few countries, such as mainland China, don't accept an IDP; you'd need a local licence or a driver.
Rules change; check the official road-transport or tourism site of the country you're visiting and your rental company's terms.
Scooters and motorbikes abroad
To ride a scooter in Bali, Thailand or Vietnam legally, your Indian licence must include a motorcycle class (MCWG), and so will your IDP. Without it, you risk fines, and your travel insurance may refuse a claim after an accident. Always wear a helmet.
Practical tips
- Carry your Indian licence, IDP and passport whenever you drive.
- Book a rental car with full insurance (zero excess) and inspect the car with photos before driving off.
- Learn local rules: many countries drive on the right, have strict speed cameras, and require children's car seats.
- Add the car hire to your Sancharees trip as a booking so the pick-up time, address and confirmation number sit on that day's timeline.
FAQ
Can I apply for an IDP online?
You start the application online on the Parivahan Sarathi portal; most RTOs then need a short visit to verify documents.
How much does an IDP cost in India?
Around ₹1,000 in government fees; some states add a small service charge.
Can I get an IDP while abroad?
Generally no. Apply in India before you travel.
Is an Indian driving licence valid in the US or UK?
For short visits, an English-language Indian licence is often accepted, but rules vary. An IDP is still recommended.
Photo: Mumbai-Pune Expressway 1 by Nikhil.kawale, CC BY-SA 3.0 (Wikimedia Commons)
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