How to Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) from India
If you want to drive in another country, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP). It works like a copy of your Indian driving licence that’s accepted in many other countries.
The IDP is given by the RTO and is valid in over 150 countries. In this guide, you’ll learn who can apply, what documents you need, how much it costs, and how to apply step by step.
IDP vs IDL – What’s the Difference?
Many people get confused between IDP and IDL, but here’s the truth:
There is no official document called “International Driving Licence” (IDL). It’s just a commonly used term, but the correct and legal document is called an International Driving Permit (IDP).
🛂 International Driving Permit (IDP)
✅ Official Document: Yes
📄 Meaning: It’s a translation of your Indian driving licence
🏢 Issued By: RTO (India)
🌍 Use: Legally drive or rent vehicles in over 150 countries
🛑 International Driving Licence (IDL)
❌ Official Document: No
📄 Meaning: It’s just a common/informal term people use
🏢 Issued By: Not officially issued as a separate licence
🌍 Use: Same as IDP, but not a legal term
Why Do You Need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
If you’re planning to drive in another country, an IDP is usually required. Here’s why:
✅ Translates your Indian licence into different languages for easy understanding by foreign authorities
✅ Required in many countries to rent or legally drive a car
✅ Works as a supporting document — not a replacement, but an add-on to your Indian driving licence
✅ Helps you avoid fines or legal issues while driving abroad
Note: You must carry your original Indian driving licence along with the IDP.
Validity of International Driving Permit (IDP)
✓ The IDP issued in India is valid for 1 year from the date of issue.
✓ It cannot be renewed — you need to apply again if it expires.
✓ The IDP is valid only in countries that recognize it under the 1949 Geneva Convention (over 150 countries).
✅ Who is Eligible for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in India?
To apply for an IDP in India, you must meet the following conditions:
- ✅ You must be at least 18 years old
- ✅ You must have a valid Indian driving licence (not expired)
- ✅ Your licence must be for the same vehicle type you plan to drive abroad
- ✅ You must be an Indian citizen or hold valid Indian residential documents
- ✅ You should apply within 3 months of your travel date (recommended)
Note: You cannot apply for an IDP if your Indian licence is suspended, expired, or under verification
📄 Documents Required for International Driving Permit (IDP)
When applying for an IDP, keep these documents ready:
- ✅ Valid Indian Driving Licence (original + photocopy)
- ✅ Passport (original + photocopy)
- ✅ Valid Visa for the country you’re visiting (where applicable)
- ✅ Airline Ticket / Travel Proof (upcoming travel within 3 months)
- ✅ Passport-Size Photographs (usually 2 recent photos)
- ✅ Application Form 4A (IDP application form, available at RTO or online)
- ✅ Medical Certificate (Form 1A) signed by a registered medical practitioner
- ✅ Self-attested copies of all the above documents
Tip: Some RTOs may ask for additional documents, so it’s good to check with your local RTO before applying.
📝 How to Apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in India
✅ Step 1: Visit Your Nearest RTO
Go to the RTO where your Indian driving licence was issued or is currently registered.
✅ Step 2: Collect or Download Form 4A
Get Form 4A (application for IDP) from the RTO or download it from the Parivahan website.
✅ Step 3: Fill and Submit the Form
Fill out the form with your travel and licence details. Attach the required documents:
- Copy of driving licence
- Passport
- Visa
- Airline ticket
- Medical certificate (Form 1A)
- Passport-size photos
✅ Step 4: Pay the IDP Fee
Pay the application fee (usually ₹1,000). The amount may vary slightly by RTO.
✅ Step 5: Verification and Approval
RTO officials will verify your documents and check your licence details. No driving test is required.
✅ Step 6: Receive Your IDP
Once approved, your IDP will be issued—either the same day or within 3–5 working days, depending on the RTO.
Note: Some states also offer online application through parivahan.gov.in, but document submission is still required at the RTO in most cases.
💰 International Driving Permit (IDP) Fee & Payment Method
✅ IDP Fee in India
The official fee for applying for an International Driving Permit is:
₹1,000 (as per the latest RTO rules)
Some RTOs may charge a small additional service fee for form printing or handling.
✅ How to Pay the Fee
You can pay the IDP fee through:
- 💳 At the RTO Counter – Pay by cash, card, or UPI (depends on the RTO)
- 🌐 Online (in some states) – After filling Form 4A on parivahan.gov.in, you may get a payment link
- 🧾 Don’t forget to keep the receipt as proof of payment
Tip: Some RTOs require you to submit the payment receipt along with your documents. Always double-check with your local office.
Countries that not accept the IDP
| No. | Country | Flag |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | 🇨🇳 |
| 2 | Japan | 🇯🇵 |
| 3 | South Korea | 🇰🇷 |
| 4 | Taiwan | 🇹🇼 |
| 5 | Brazil | 🇧🇷 |
| 6 | Uruguay | 🇺🇾 |
| 7 | Saudi Arabia | 🇸🇦 |
| 8 | United Arab Emirates (UAE) | 🇦🇪 |
| 9 | Malaysia | 🇲🇾 |
| 10 | Germany | 🇩🇪 |
| 11 | France | 🇫🇷 |
| 12 | Italy | 🇮🇹 |
| 13 | Spain | 🇪🇸 |
| 14 | Australia | 🇦🇺 |
| 15 | New Zealand | 🇳🇿 |
Can I Apply for an IDP from Abroad?
No, currently you cannot apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) from outside India.
To apply for an IDP, you must:
Be physically present in India
Visit your local RTO (or apply online and then visit the RTO for document verification)
Submit required documents including your Indian driving licence, passport, visa, and travel proof
🔁 Update: In 2021, the Government of India announced plans to allow Indians abroad to apply for IDP through Indian embassies or consulates, but it’s still not fully implemented everywhere. Always check with the nearest Indian embassy for the latest update.