How to Apply for an International Driving Permit?

There is a lot of reasons to travel abroad and in the process, we need some transportation that is comfortable, within budget, and also provides a seamless journey. Many people rent cars and bikes to reach their travel destination but traveling abroad using a card without a license is a crime and no one wants to spend in jail. In this article, we will provide you with the process for applying for International Driving Permit, the Documents required and the fees associated with it.

What is International Driving Permit?

International Driving Permit is a legal document that allows the document holder to drive the vehicle in the country you are applying for with your home country license. It is authorized by the United Nation to provide to the traveler who wants to plan travel for road trips etc. The International Driving Permit translates your license documents into a number of languages so authorities abroad are able to verify and understand your driving credentials. The IDP is valid for One year or till the license expires whichever is earlier after which you have to apply again since there is no renewal process of this document.

Eligibility for International Driving Permit

  • The applicant must be a citizen of India
  • The applicant must hold a valid driving license in India
  • The applicant must be intending to travel abroad and possess valid tickets and visas to the intended country

Documents Required for International Driving Permit?

The following are the document required for applying for International Driving Permit-

  • Form 4
  • Copy of valid driver’s license
  • Copy of passport and visa
  • Copy of air tickets
  • Medical certificate as mentioned in the application form
  • Application fee of Rs. 1000/-
  • 5 passport sized photographs
  • Certified proof of Indian citizenship
  • Copy of address proof
  • Copy of age proof

Apply for an International Driving Permit

The process of applying for the International Driving Permit is as follows-

  • Visit the Online Portal of the Sarthi Transport Authority and select the state you are applying from
  • Now select the nearest RTO office where you will be visiting for further process
  • Click on the “Apply Online” Tab and select the “Services on the Driving License”
  • Now a page open read it and simply click on the Proceed Button
  • A page will open up that provides Services on the Driving License
  • Fill the details with the respective details and click on the Proceed button
  • After clicking on the proceed button you will be presented with your license details, Confirm it
  • Now on the next step select on the Issue of International Driving Permit
  • On the next step, you will be asked other details like Passport Number, Visa Number, etc. that has to be filled and press confirm to continue
  • Now upload the document and pay the prescribed amount and take a printout of the receipt and the other documents
  • Visit the RTO Office with the above-mentioned documents and submit it
  • Your International Driving Permit will be provided within a few weeks

FAQ on International Driving Permit

Which Country Allows Using the International Driving Permit?

Almost every country that is part of the United Nations allows the traveler to use the IDP to drive the vehicle.

What is the Validity of the International Driving Permit?

The validity for the International Driving Permit is One year or when the driver’s license expires whichever is earlier. After that, you are required to apply for the IDP again.

Can I Renew my IDP?

No, under the Indian Laws you are not allowed to renew your International Driving Permit.

What are the other organizations that provide the International Driving License?

Apart from the RTO, you can also get the IDP from the Western Indian Automobile Association (WIAA).