How to get International Driving Permit in India: Easy guide

If you are planning to drive on your next international trip, your Indian driving licence alone will not be enough. Most countries require travellers to carry an International Driving Permit, commonly known as an IDP.

This document works as an official translation of your Indian licence and is recognised in over 150 countries under United Nations conventions. It includes your photograph, personal details and the category of vehicles you are allowed to drive.The good news is that getting an IDP in India is now a fairly simple process. You can apply either online through the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ Parivahan portal or by visiting your local Regional Transport Office.Before applying, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. You must be an Indian citizen. You should hold a valid Indian driving licence. The minimum age is 18 years. A valid passport is mandatory.There are a few documents you need to keep ready. Form 4A, which is the IDP application form, can be downloaded from the Parivahan website. You will also need Form 1A, which is a medical certificate signed by a registered medical practitioner.

Carry copies of your valid Indian driving licence, passport and visa. Keep three to four recent passport-size photographs. Some RTOs may also ask for a copy of your air ticket for verification.If you choose the online route, visit the official Parivahan Sarathi portal. Select the state where your driving licence was originally issued. Under the Driving Licence menu, click on “Apply for International Driving Permit (IDP)”.

Enter your driving licence number and date of birth. Upload scanned copies of the required documents and photographs. The standard fee is Rs 1,000, along with any applicable RTO service charges.Payments can be made digitally. UPI, debit card, credit card or net banking are accepted. In some cases, Aadhaar authentication may be required. You might also need to visit the RTO for biometric verification or to show original documents.

How to obtain IDP in India: Easy steps

-Check eligibility (valid Indian DL, passport, 18+ years).-Fill Form 4A and gather required documents.-Apply online via Parivahan portal or visit your RTO.-Upload documents and pay Rs 1,000 fee.-Complete verification (if required).-Receive IDP in 3–7 working days and carry it with your original DL abroad.

Prefer doing it offline? You can visit the RTO within whose jurisdiction you reside. Submit Form 4A along with physical copies of all required documents.

Pay the prescribed fee at the counter. Some offices may have a brief interaction to check your awareness of international road signs.Once your application is submitted and verified, the IDP is usually dispatched to your registered address within three to seven working days. The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue and cannot be renewed. Remember this. The IDP does not replace your Indian driving licence. You must carry your original Indian licence along with the permit and your passport when driving abroad.