How to Apply for an International Driving License – Step-by-Step Process

One fine day, Rohan wanted to rent a car, but then he got to know that he did not have an International driving licence. He immediately called his father and told him that he “Papa muje International Driving License chahiye aap please help krdo”.

His father was not sure. He was confused and said on his own, “Ab mai kya kru?”

Overwhelmed and unsure, Mr Arora decided to visit his old friend, Sukhi, who had recently helped his niece with the same process and explained that Rohan, his son, had just messaged from the UK asking his father to help him apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) from India. Rohan had a valid Indian driving licence but needed an IDP to rent a car abroad.

To help people like Mr Arora, who frequently believe that every work beyond India is complex, Mr Sukhi will guide readers through the application procedure for an international driving permit in this blog.

What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

"Arora ji, relax karo!" Sukhi said, offering him a cup of tea. "Sabse pehle IDP hota kya hai yeh samajh lo."

He continued, “The International Driving Permit is an official document that translates your Indian driving licence into several foreign languages. It’s recognised in over 150 countries, and it lets Indian citizens drive legally while travelling abroad—on a short-term or tourist basis.”

Example:
 

Rohan is going to London for a 6-month internship. He plans weekend road trips, so an IDP allows him to legally rent and drive a car there.

Eligibility Kya Honi Chahiye? (Who Can Apply)

"Yeh koi bhi nahi banwa sakta, Arora ji," Sukhi explained. "Eligibility bhi hoti hai."

• To apply for an IDP, the candidate must be at least 18 years old.
• Possess a genuine Indian driving licence (not a learner's permit).
• Hold a valid Indian passport and a visa for the intended country.

For example, if Neha has a valid driver's license and is visiting Canada on a student visa, she can apply for an IDP. Licence, and is travelling to Canada on a student visa, she is eligible to apply for an IDP.

Kaise Karein Apply? Step-by-Step Process

“Process simple hai, bas documents taiyaar rakhne hote hain,” Sukhi explained while taking out his phone to show Arora the official website.

Option 1: Apply Offline (at your local RTO)

1. Visit your local Regional Transport Office (RTO)
2. Fill out Form 4A (Application for IDP)
3. Submit the documents (mentioned in the next step)
4. Pay the application cost(approx. ₹1,000)
5. Collect the IDP (often within 4–5 working days)

Option 2: Apply Online (via the Parivahan website)

1. Go to: https://parivahan.gov.in/
2. Choose ‘Driving Licence Related Services’
3. Choose your state
4. Click on ‘Apply for an International Driving Permit’
5. Fill out the form and upload the documents
6. Pay the money and schedule an appointment
7. Visit the RTO for document verification

Example:
 

Mr Sharma applied through the Parivahan portal and visited the RTO just once for verification purpose. He got his IDP within 3 days.

Yeh Rahe Required Documents (Keep These Ready)

“Documents kaafi basic hain, but sab sahi hone chahiye warna rejection ho sakta hai,” Sukhi told.

List of Documents:

• Valid Indian driver's licence
• Valid Indian passports
• Visa for the destination country
• 5 passport-sized photographs
• Air ticket
• Completed Form 4A
• Medical certificate (Form 1A signed by a licensed medical practitioner)

Example:
 

Rohan's cousin Priya forgot her medical certificate while applying for an IDP for her journey to Australia. It caused a week-long delay in her process.

Conclusion 

 A few days later, Rohan messaged his father from London.

"Thanks, Papa!  I got my IDP couriered. I booked a car for my weekend trip to Scotland!"

Mr. Arora smiled brightly and wrote Sukhi a thank-you message: "Aap na hote toh main confuse hi reh jaata!"

So, my readers, whether it's your child, spouse, or friend planning a trip abroad, obtaining an International Driving Permit isn't as difficult as it seems. Simply follow the steps, have all necessary documents accessible, and select the way that works best for you.

Whether you're planning a road trip through Europe, a trip to Canada, or a long-awaited internship in the United States, an IDP can help you drive freely and legally abroad.

FAQs

What if my Indian driving licence has expired?

You cannot apply for an IDP unless your Indian driver's licence is valid. Renew it first, and then apply.

Can I drive in the United States if I have an Indian IDP?

Yes, but only for a certain time (usually up to a year or until your visa expires). In addition to the IDP, you must possess your original Indian driving licence.

If I am already abroad, can I still apply for IDP?

Previously, this was not allowed, but according to an update from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), NRIs can now apply through Indian embassies/consulates or by appointing someone in India to apply on their behalf at the RTO.

How soon should I apply before travelling?

At least 1-2 weeks in advance, so you can verify and collect.

Is IDP renewable?

No. IDP isn't renewable. When it expires (after one year), you must apply again from start with updated documentation.

Is IDP mandatory in all countries?

Not always. Some nations allow travellers to drive with only their home country's licence (in English), however, IDP is strongly advised for convenience, legality, and insurance reasons.

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