Getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) or International Driving License in India

International driving license is also referred to as IDP [International Driving Permit]. Obtaining IDP has now become a hassle-free process in India. IDP is issued by the licensing authority of a country to enable their citizens to drive while visiting other countries. The validity of this permit is for one year. A person who wishes to drive in another country is required to apply for an international driving license, which acts as a driving permit in that particular country.

In India, IDP is issued from various Zonal offices. Regional Transport Office (RTO) is the designated government office that deals with issuing of driving license in India, which is valid for one year from the date of issue. One can get his/ her International driving license from the RTO from which Indian driving license was issued. There are many benefits of obtaining an International Driving License. A person must hold a valid driving license as well as an Indian passport to get an International Driving License.

Applying for International Driving License in India

International driving license issued by Indian RTOs is valid for all the countries in the world. Applying for an international driving license is now a convenient process. A person has to visit the nearest RTO with required documents and also needs required to submit an application form.  Apart from RTOs applicant can apply for IDP or International Driver’s License from WIAA – Western India Automobile Association as well. The license would be handed over to the person post processing of the application, which usually takes 3-4 days.

Documents Required for International Driving License (IDP)

Applicants should fulfill the criteria as mentioned below:

• Should be above 18 years of age.
• Should possess a valid Driving license.
• Submit official form issued by the concerned authority and 3 passport-sized photographs.

Applicants from India have to submit the documents as mentioned below:

• Form 4A
• Form 1A
• Copy of valid driver’s license
• Copy of passport and visa
• Copy of air tickets
• Medical certificate
• Application fee of Rs. 500
• Three passport sized photographs.

International Driving License issued in India – Validity

International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in India by the RTO is valid for 1 year from the date of issue. IDP is only valid when provided along with the actual Indian license. A new application is required to be submitted to get IDP issued in India. Without a valid International Driver’s license, a person cannot drive in a country outside of India.