Planning to drive a car or rent a bike abroad? You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP)—a legal document that allows Indian citizens to drive vehicles in foreign countries that recognize the Geneva Convention of 1949. As of July 2025, India has updated its IDP application process, making it simpler, faster, and now completely digital in many states.
This guide explains how to apply, the documents required, new changes in 2025, and the validity of your international driving permit.
What Is an International Driving Licence (IDP)?
The International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official translation of your Indian driving licence into multiple languages. It allows you to legally drive a personal vehicle in over 130 countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many countries in Europe and the Middle East.
The IDP is not a standalone licence—it must always be carried along with your valid Indian driving licence while driving abroad.
New Changes in IDP Application Process – 2025 Update
India’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) introduced several improvements in July 2025 to make the application process more efficient:
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Online Application via Parivahan and state RTO websites
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Passport Not Mandatory for GCC countries if you hold valid visa and air ticket
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One-Day Processing in most metro cities
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Digital Tracking of application and delivery
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Validity Extended to 1 year (previously 6 months in some states)
Several RTOs now offer doorstep delivery through India Post, and some states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Delhi allow completely paperless processing for Aadhar-verified users.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for IDP in India
Follow these updated steps to apply for an international driving licence in 2025:
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Visit Parivahan Sewa Website
Go to https://parivahan.gov.in and select “Apply for International Driving Permit.” -
Select Your State
Choose your state of residence to be redirected to the appropriate RTO portal. -
Fill the Online Application (Form 4A)
Complete the application form with personal details, travel country, and licence number. -
Upload Documents
Submit scanned copies of:-
Valid Indian Driving Licence
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Passport (or visa & air ticket)
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Address proof (Aadhar, utility bill)
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Recent passport-size photograph
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Medical Certificate (Form 1A for applicants over 50)
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Pay the Fee
The application fee is ₹1,000 in most states. You can pay online using UPI, net banking, or card. -
Book an Appointment (if required)
In some RTOs, physical verification or biometrics may still be required. -
Track Application Status
After submission, track your IDP delivery via SMS or Parivahan dashboard. -
Receive IDP
Your international driving licence will be delivered by post or collected from RTO, depending on your state’s process.
Countries Where Indian IDP Is Accepted
As of 2025, Indian citizens can use their IDP in the following popular destinations:
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United States – Valid for up to 1 year
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United Kingdom – Valid for 12 months
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Australia – Accepted in all states
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Canada – Valid in most provinces
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UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar – Accepted with visa
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Germany, France, Italy, Spain – Accepted with rental agreement
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Japan – IDP must be converted locally after 1 year
Check with the embassy or local transport authority of your destination country for exact usage limits.
Validity and Renewal Rules
The IDP issued in 2025 will be valid for 1 year from the date of issue. You can reapply only after expiry or if lost/stolen. Renewals follow the same application process.
Some countries may require a new IDP for every visit, even within the same year, so check international driving rules before you travel.
IDP for Indian Students and Workers Abroad
If you’re an Indian student or working professional overseas with a valid Indian driving licence, you can now request your IDP via Indian embassies or Indian missions abroad. This update allows for offline and online submission even outside India.
Make sure to submit:
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Scanned copy of Indian DL
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Passport/Visa
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Proof of residence (host country)
Processing time is 3–5 days.
FAQs
Is the IDP valid without my original Indian driving licence?
No, the IDP is valid only when carried along with your original Indian driving licence. It is not a substitute for your DL.
Can I drive in the US or UK with my Indian licence alone?
No. In most countries, you must carry both your Indian licence and the IDP to drive legally. Some rental companies will not accept only the Indian licence.
How long does it take to get an IDP?
In most cities, you will receive it within 3–5 working days. Metro cities with e-processing can deliver within 24–48 hours.
Can I apply for IDP online without visiting the RTO?
Yes, if your RTO supports full e-verification, the entire process can be completed online. However, some states still require a physical visit for verification.
Is medical fitness required for all applicants?
Medical certificate (Form 1A) is only required for applicants over 50 years or those with existing medical conditions.
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