skip to content
Blog

Understanding Driving Licence International: Everything You Should Know

Posted on by PVC CARD PRINTING
understanding driving licence international everything you should know
22
Mar

Introduction Planning to drive abroad during your international travel? Then you need an International Driving Permit (IDP), commonly referred to as an International Driving Licence (IDL). Issued in India by the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), an IDP translates your Indian driving licence into multiple languages and is accepted in over 150 countries.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you should know about applying for, using, and renewing an International Driving Licence.

What is an International Driving Licence (IDL)?

An International Driving Licence is an official document that allows you to drive a motor vehicle in a foreign country, provided you already have a valid Indian driving licence. It is usually valid for one year and must be carried along with your original Indian DL.

Benefits of Having an International Driving Licence

  • Legally drive cars or bikes in foreign countries.
  • Accepted in 150+ countries under the 1949 Geneva Convention.
  • Translated into multiple languages.
  • Required to rent a car in most countries.
  • Acts as an additional identity proof.

Eligibility Criteria for IDL

  • Must be an Indian citizen.
  • Must hold a valid permanent Indian driving licence.
  • Should be at least 18 years of age.

Documents Required to Apply for International Driving Licence

  • Valid Indian Driving Licence
  • Passport
  • Visa (if applicable)
  • Air ticket (proof of travel)
  • Passport-size photographs
  • IDL Application Form (Form 4A)

How to Apply for International Driving Licence in India

✅ Step 1: Visit the Sarathi Parivahan Portal

Go to: https://parivahan.gov.in/sarathiservice

✅ Step 2: Select Your State & Choose ‘Apply for IDP’

Choose the RTO jurisdiction and click on Apply for International Driving Permit.

✅ Step 3: Fill the Application Form

Enter all relevant details including travel destination, DL number, and passport details.

✅ Step 4: Upload the Required Documents

Upload scanned copies of:

  • Indian DL
  • Passport
  • Visa and Air Ticket
  • Photograph & Signature

✅ Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

The fee for IDP is generally around ₹1,000 to ₹1,500, depending on the state.

✅ Step 6: Visit RTO for Verification

Carry all originals and appear at the RTO for biometric and document verification.

Processing Time and Validity

  • Processing time: 3–5 working days
  • Validity: 1 year from the date of issue or until the passport/visa expires (whichever is earlier)

Countries Where Indian IDL is Valid

Some of the popular countries accepting Indian IDL include:

  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • Canada
  • Germany
  • Australia
  • France
  • South Africa
  • UAE

(Always check country-specific rules before driving abroad.)

Tips While Driving Abroad with IDL

  • Always carry your original Indian DL + IDP + passport.
  • Follow the local driving rules and speed limits.
  • Make sure your rental car is insured.
  • Never use IDP as a substitute for a visa or passport.

Get Your Driving Licence Printed on PVC

Planning to carry your licence abroad? Get your DL printed on PVC card for durability and wallet convenience: PVC Driving Licence Print

Other Useful PVC Card Printing Services

Conclusion An International Driving Licence makes your travel easier and gives you the freedom to explore by road in many countries. If you’re planning an international trip, don’t forget to apply for your IDL in advance and carry it with your other important documents. Drive safely, globally!

PVC CARD PRINTING