When Indian citizens plan to travel abroad, driving a vehicle in a foreign country often requires more than just an Indian driving licence. Many countries mandate an International Driving Permit India as an additional legal document. This permit acts as an officially recognised translation of an Indian driving licence and helps authorities abroad verify driving eligibility.
In recent years, the Indian government has simplified the process to apply for International Driving Permit India by offering an online facility through the official Parivahan portal. In this guide, we explain everything Indian travellers need to know about International Driving Permit India, including eligibility, documents, fees, validity, and the complete step-by-step application process.
What Is an International Driving Permit (IDP)
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an internationally accepted document that allows Indian licence holders to drive motor vehicles in foreign countries that recognise the permit. The International Driving Permit India is issued under international conventions and is valid only when carried along with a valid Indian driving licence.
The IDP does not replace the Indian licence. Instead, it serves as a supporting document that translates licence details into multiple languages for easy verification abroad.
Countries That Accept International Driving Permit from India
The International Driving Permit India is accepted in many countries that are signatories to international road traffic conventions. Commonly visited destinations where IDP is recognised include:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- Germany
- France
- Italy
- Canada
- Japan
- South Africa
- United Arab Emirates (as per local rules)
We always recommend checking the local driving regulations of the destination country before relying on International Driving Permit India.
Who Can Apply for International Driving Permit India
We can apply for International Driving Permit India if:
- We are Indian citizens
- We hold a valid permanent Indian driving licence
- Our driving licence is issued by an Indian RTO
- Our passport and visa are valid
Learner’s licence holders are not eligible to apply for International Driving Permit India.
Eligibility Criteria for International Driving Permit India
To apply for International Driving Permit India, the applicant must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Hold a valid Indian driving licence
- Have a valid passport
- Have a valid visa for the destination country
- Be medically fit to drive
Meeting these criteria is mandatory for approval of International Driving Permit India.
Documents Required for International Driving Permit India
Before starting the International Driving Permit India application, we should keep the following documents ready:
- Valid Indian Driving Licence
- Passport (front and back pages)
- Valid Visa
- Passport-size photograph
- Medical Certificate (Form 1A, if applicable)
- Address proof (if required)
Uploading clear and correct documents ensures smooth processing of International Driving Permit India.
Fees for International Driving Permit in India
The government fee for International Driving Permit India is generally around:
- ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 (may vary by state)
Additional service charges may apply if the application is submitted through facilitation centres. Fees must be paid online during the International Driving Permit India application process.
Validity of International Driving Permit India
The International Driving Permit India is usually valid for:
- 1 year from the date of issue
It cannot be renewed. After expiry, a fresh application must be submitted through the official portal.
Official Website to Apply International Driving Permit India
The only authorised portal to apply for International Driving Permit India online is:
- Parivahan Sewa – Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH)
ParivahanSewas Portal
🚗 Visit ParivahanSewas
Applicants should avoid unofficial websites while applying for International Driving Permit India.
How to Apply for International Driving Permit India Online – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Visit Parivahan Sewa Portal
Open the official Parivahan Sewa website using a browser.
Step 2: Select International Driving Permit Service
From the Driving Licence services section, choose International Driving Permit India.
Step 3: Enter Driving Licence Details
Enter:
- Driving licence number
- Date of birth
- Issuing RTO details
These details are validated against the national database.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Upload scanned copies of:
- Driving licence
- Passport
- Visa
- Photograph
- Medical certificate (if required)
Step 5: Pay Application Fee
Pay the International Driving Permit India fee online using:
- Debit card
- Credit card
- Net banking
- UPI
Step 6: Book Appointment (If Required)
Some RTOs may require a physical visit for verification. Book an appointment if prompted.
Offline Application Process (Brief Overview)
While online application is preferred, International Driving Permit India can also be applied offline by visiting the local RTO with all required documents. However, online application through Parivahan Sewa is faster and more transparent.
How to Track International Driving Permit Application Status
To track International Driving Permit India status:
- Visit Parivahan Sewa portal
- Enter application number
- View status such as “Under Processing”, “Approved”, or “Dispatched”
Regular tracking helps applicants stay informed.
Processing Time for International Driving Permit India
The usual processing time for International Driving Permit India is:
- 5 to 10 working days
Delays may occur if document verification or RTO approval takes longer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Licence Mismatch
Problem: Licence details not found
Solution: Ensure licence is linked in Parivahan database
Document Upload Issues
Problem: File size or format error
Solution: Upload clear PDF/JPEG files within size limits
Payment Failures
Problem: Amount deducted but status pending
Solution: Wait 24 hours or contact Parivahan support
Important Tips Before Applying for IDP
- Ensure driving licence is valid for at least one year
- Carry both IDP and Indian licence while driving abroad
- Check country-specific driving rules
- Apply for International Driving Permit India well before travel
These steps help avoid last-minute complications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is IDP mandatory?
Many countries require International Driving Permit India along with the Indian licence.
Can IDP be renewed?
No, International Driving Permit India cannot be renewed. A fresh application is required.
Is IDP valid without Indian licence?
No, IDP is valid only when carried with a valid Indian driving licence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, International Driving Permit India is an essential document for Indian citizens planning to drive abroad. With the online facility provided by Parivahan Sewa, applying for International Driving Permit India has become simpler, faster, and more transparent. By understanding eligibility, documents, fees, and the correct step-by-step process, travellers can ensure a smooth application experience. We strongly recommend applying only through the official portal to avoid delays, errors, or fraud while obtaining International Driving Permit India.
