International Driving License India: Easy Guide

Posted on: Sep 24, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

International Driving License India: Easy Guide

It can be fun and helpful to drive in a different country. If you have a legal international driving permit, you can avoid stress on your trip, whether you're driving across Europe or just getting to work in the Middle East.

If you take the proper steps, getting your International Driving License in India won't be hard. If you want to know how to get a permit, what papers you need, how much it costs, and even how to renew it or get a new one if you lose it, this guide has it all.

Let's look at some simple methods for obtaining your international driving permit.

What is an International Driving Licence?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is the official name for an International Driving Licence. You can drive your own private car in foreign countries that have signed the 1949 Geneva Convention. It makes it easier for foreign officials to check your qualifications by translating your Indian driver's license into multiple languages.

What you need to know is:

1. Local transport authorities issue the IDP in your home country.

2. It is valid only when accompanied by your original driving licence.

3. It is not a standalone proof of identity or driving eligibility.

Why is it Important to get an International Driving License in India?

If you get an International Driving License India, you can legally drive in more than 150 other countries. Renting a car or getting through crossing checks can be hard without it.

Some important perks are:

1. Hassle-Free Car Rentals

Most international car rental companies require an IDP.

2. Legal Protection

In case of an accident, having an IDP avoids legal complications.

3. Travel Insurance Benefits

Some international travel insurance plans cover driving-related incidents only if you have an IDP.

In addition, if you want to drive a lot while you're travelling, you should finish the application process early.

How do you apply for an International Driving License in India?

Offline and online are the two main ways to do it. Both are simple to do and won't take long if you have your papers ready.

• Offline Mode:

1. Visit your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO).

2. Fill in Form 4A (application for International Driving Permit).

3. Submit the form with required documents and pay the fee.

4. Attend a brief verification and get the receipt.

5. Your IDP will usually be issued within 3-4 working days.

• Online Mode:

1. Visit the Parivahan Sewa portal.

2. Navigate to 'Apply for International Driving Permit'.

3. Enter your existing licence number and date of birth.

4. Fill in Form 4A digitally and upload scanned documents.

5. Pay the fee via an online payment gateway.

6. Schedule an appointment for document verification at your RTO.

7. Receive your IDP by post or collect it in person.

Note: Our guide on How to Apply for an International Driving Licence in India will help you through each step. It gives you clear steps on how to speed up and improve your application.

Documents Required to Get an International Driving Licence in India

Here's the checklist of documents you'll need:

1. Valid domestic driving license

2. Passport-size photographs (usually 2 copies)

3. Valid passport with visa

4. Proof of residence (Aadhaar, utility bill, etc.)

5. Medical certificate (Form 1A signed by a registered doctor)

6. Application Form 4A

7. Copy of air ticket or travel itinerary

8. Self-attested copies of all documents

Ensure that all photocopies are self-attested. The originals must be presented at the RTO for verification.

Fees for an International Driving License in India

The IDP registration fee is between ₹1,000 and ₹1,500, but it changes a bit from state to state. For your ease of use, here's a breakdown:

1. Fee to apply: ₹1,000 to ₹1,200

2. Medical certificate: about ₹200

3. Service fees for other miscellaneous services: ₹100 to ₹200

Note: You can pay in cash (if you're offline) or with a UPI or debit card (if you are online).

International Driving License Validity in India

An International Driving License India is valid for a period of one year from the date issued. You can't directly renew it after it expires. You need to apply for a new IDP using the exact steps you used for the first one.

Some important points:

1. One year is the only time it's valid.

2. It's only good as long as your local driver's license is still current.

3. There may be extra rules about IDP legality in some countries, so always check before you go.

How to Renew the International Driving License?

Follow these steps if your IDP expires or if you need to reapply for any reason.

Step 1: Submit the Miscellaneous Application Form

Go to your RTO and fill out various forms to get a new IDP. You can also start this process online through the Parivahan Sewa site. Here are the requirements:

1. Old IDP copy

2. Updated visa or travel plan

3. Valid driving licence

4. Passport-size photos

Step 2: Apply for a Fresh International Driving Permit

You'll have to apply for a new IDP as soon as your papers are checked because they can't be renewed. The first entry method is similar to this one.

Fee: The standard IDP fee is still in effect.

Note: If you are outside of India and your IDP runs out, Indian offices and consulates may be able to help you. However, remember that the process may be different in each country.

What if I Lose my IDP During the Trip?

Losing your IDP while travelling can be stressful, but it's not impossible. Do these things:

1. Report the loss of the IDP to the police in the area where it happened and keep a copy of the report as proof.

2. For help, go to the Indian embassy or consulate that is closest to you. They might give you a temporary license or help you apply again.

3. Don't drive without a proper licence. You could get in trouble with the law in the host country.

4. You must return to India and apply at your local RTO to get a new IDP. You can only do this in your home country.

5. Carry digital copies of your IDP and international driver's license to speed up the process of reapplying and show that you are eligible if you need to while you are travelling.

A helpful tip is to ensure your international travel insurance covers lost documents. It can help you get the costs of reissuing back or give you temporary options.

Conclusion

It's easier than you think to obtain an International Driving License in India. You can get your pass in a few days if you have all the proper paperwork and know how the process works. An IDP makes sure you follow the rules and gives you peace of mind, whether you're planning a road trip across Europe or taking a car for work in another country.

Also, always carry your driver's license and information about your travel insurance with you when you go on vacation. If you need them, these can save you time and money.

FAQs

1. Can I drive for business in another country with my IDP?

Not at all. The IDP only works for domestic, non-business cars. Depending on the host country's rules, commercial driving requires a different kind of license.

2. Does IDP work in every country?

IDP works in more than 150 places. But in countries that aren't part of the Geneva Convention, you might need a different pass or license to drive. Check before you go anywhere.

3. Do I need travel insurance to get an IDP?

Even though it's not required, getting international travel insurance is a good idea, mainly since some plans cover accidents that happen while driving and lost documents.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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