An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official document that allows an Indian driving licence holder to drive a motor vehicle in foreign countries. It is not a standalone licence. It works only when carried along with your original Indian Driving Licence (DL).
The IDP translates your driving details into multiple languages, making it easier for foreign traffic authorities to verify your licence. India issues IDP under the United Nations Convention on Road Traffic.
An IDP is commonly required for tourists, students, and temporary workers who plan to drive abroad. Countries like UAE, Germany, France, Australia, and Switzerland accept IDP issued by India.
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Use official government portals and apps for driving licence and vehicle related services.
This is an informational website. All buttons redirect to official government platforms.Important note: IDP cannot be renewed. After expiry, you must apply again from India.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for International Driving Permit Online
Not everyone can apply for an International Driving Permit. The applicant must meet strict eligibility rules set by the transport department.
Eligibility conditions:
- Must be an Indian citizen
- Must hold a valid Indian Driving Licence
- DL validity should be more than 1 year
- Applicant age should be 18 years or above
- Passport must be valid
If your driving licence is expired or under suspension, your IDP application will be rejected. Learner licence holders are not eligible.
If your DL was issued recently, ensure it is smart card based and updated in the national database. Nearly 95% of active DLs in India are now available online, which makes digital verification faster.
Applicants going abroad for studies, jobs, or tourism are all eligible, provided they meet the conditions.
Online Portal Used for International Driving Permit Application
In India, IDP applications are processed online through Parivahan Sewa, which is managed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
The portal offers:
- Online IDP application
- Appointment booking
- Fee payment
- Status tracking
Important portal facts:
- Available 24×7
- Covers all states and UTs
- Linked with RTO and passport databases
Even though the application starts online, a physical visit to RTO is mandatory for document verification and biometrics. This ensures identity verification and prevents misuse.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for International Driving Permit Online
Applying for an International Driving Permit online is simple if all documents are ready.
Steps:
- Visit Parivahan portal
- Select “Driving Licence Related Services”
- Enter DL number and date of birth
- Choose “Apply for International Driving Permit”
- Fill application form
- Upload required documents
- Pay fees online
- Book RTO appointment
After submission, you will receive an Application Reference Number. Processing time is usually 3–7 working days after RTO visit.
In metro cities, same-day processing is possible if documents are correct. In smaller towns, it may take up to 10 working days.
Documents Required for International Driving Permit Application
Uploading correct documents is very important. Incorrect or unclear documents are the main reason for delays.
Required documents:
- Valid Indian Driving Licence
- Passport (first and last page)
- Visa copy (if already issued)
- Air ticket (optional but recommended)
- Address proof
- Passport-size photo
- Medical Form 1A (mandatory)
Medical certificate must be issued by a registered MBBS doctor. It confirms that the applicant is medically fit to drive.
File size rules:
- Each document: Maximum 200 KB
- Format: PDF or JPG
Document mismatch causes nearly 30% of application rejections, so accuracy is very important.
Fees and Charges for International Driving Permit
The fee structure for IDP is fixed by the government and is the same across India.
Official fees:
- IDP application fee: ₹1,000
- Service charges: ₹200–₹300 (varies by state)
- Medical certificate cost: ₹100–₹300
Total average cost: ₹1,300 to ₹1,600
Payment must be made online through:
- UPI
- Debit card
- Credit card
- Net banking
No cash payment is accepted at RTO counters. Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is rejected.
Validity Period and Countries Where International Driving Permit Is Accepted
An International Driving Permit issued in India is valid for exactly 1 year from the date of issue.
Important points:
- Validity cannot exceed Indian DL validity
- Not extendable
- Fresh application needed after expiry
Countries accepting IDP include:
- USA
- UK
- Germany
- France
- Italy
- UAE
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Switzerland
More than 150 countries recognize IDP under UN conventions. However, some countries also require a local permit after a certain number of days.
Always check local driving laws before driving abroad.
How to Track IDP Application Status Online
Once applied, you can track the status online.
Tracking options:
- Application reference number
- Driving licence number
Common status updates:
- Application Submitted
- Pending at RTO
- Documents Verified
- IDP Approved
- IDP Issued
Most applications are approved within 5–7 days. If status remains pending for more than 15 days, you should contact the RTO.
SMS updates are sent to the registered mobile number at each stage.
Common Problems and How to Solve Them
Applicants often face issues while applying for IDP.
Common problems:
- Medical form missing
- DL details not updated
- Passport address mismatch
- RTO appointment delay
Solutions:
- Update DL details before applying
- Upload clear scanned documents
- Ensure passport and DL address match
- Visit RTO on booked slot only
Nearly 40% of delays occur due to medical certificate issues. Always use a registered doctor.
Important Legal Points and Final Tips
An IDP is valid only outside India. It cannot be used for driving in India.
Important reminders:
- Always carry original DL with IDP
- IDP does not replace local insurance
- Driving rules vary by country
- IDP misuse can lead to fines abroad
If your IDP expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it online. You must return to India and apply again.
Applying for an International Driving Permit online saves time and reduces paperwork. With proper documents and correct information, the process is smooth and fast