As of 2025, the process to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) from India has become more streamlined and accessible, allowing Indian travellers to drive legally in over 150 countries. Whether you’re heading abroad for tourism, studies, work, or long-term relocation, the International Driving Licence (IDL)—officially called the IDP—is a crucial document for renting and driving vehicles overseas.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has modernized the application process by integrating it with digital platforms like Parivahan and DigiLocker, making it faster and more efficient for applicants across India.
What Is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
An IDP is an official translation of your Indian driving licence into multiple international languages and is recognized by most countries under the 1949 Geneva Convention. It acts as a supplementary document and is valid only when presented with a valid Indian driving licence.
Key characteristics of the IDP:
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Validity: 1 year from the date of issue
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Languages: Translated into 10+ international languages including English, French, Spanish, Arabic
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Recognized in countries like the USA, UK, UAE, Australia, Germany, France, Singapore, and more
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Required for renting or driving a car abroad
The IDP does not replace your Indian DL but complements it when you’re driving internationally.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for an IDP in India (2025)
You can now apply for an International Driving Licence both online and offline. Here’s the 2025 process via the Parivahan portal:
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Visit https://parivahan.gov.in and choose your respective state
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Click on “Apply for International Driving Permit”
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Enter your Driving Licence number and verify your details
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Upload the required documents:
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Passport (first and last page)
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Valid Visa copy (if applicable)
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Indian Driving Licence
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Passport-size photo and signature (digital copy)
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Select RTO and pay the prescribed fee of ₹1,000
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Submit the form and note the application number
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Schedule an appointment (if required by RTO) or visit for biometric verification
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Receive the IDP within 5–7 working days, either physically or via courier
The entire process, including payment and tracking, is now digitized for faster turnaround.
Documents Required for International Driving Licence
To apply for an international DL in 2025, ensure you have the following:
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Original valid Indian Driving Licence (smart card or digital DL)
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Valid Indian Passport
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Visa or proof of travel (ticket or e-visa if applicable)
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Medical Certificate (Form 1A) for applicants above 50 years
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Passport-size photograph (latest, white background)
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Aadhaar card for address verification (linked to DL)
Note: All documents must match the information on your current Indian DL, and any discrepancy can delay issuance.
Recent Updates in 2025 IDP Rules
The government has introduced several new updates in 2025 to make the international DL process more transparent and travel-friendly:
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Single-window IDP dashboard for all state RTOs under the Parivahan portal
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Integration with DigiLocker, allowing instant download of a digital IDP copy (for view-only use)
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No need to visit RTO in most metro cities—biometrics may be done via Aadhaar or authorized centres
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Option to reissue IDP without re-taking driving test within 5 years if DL is still valid
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Support for international travellers on MoRTH’s 24×7 helpline and mobile app
These changes have simplified the process significantly for Indian citizens traveling abroad.
FAQs
What is the validity of the International Driving Permit issued from India?
The IDP is valid for 1 year from the date of issuance, regardless of the travel duration or visa length.
Can I apply for an IDP without visiting the RTO?
In most metro cities, Aadhaar-based eKYC and digital submission allow for a contactless process. In smaller towns, biometric verification may still require one visit.
Is the IDP valid in the USA, UK, and Dubai?
Yes, India’s IDP is recognized in the USA, UK, UAE, and over 150 countries that are part of the 1949 Geneva Convention.
Do I need a visa to apply for an IDP?
Yes, you must provide proof of a valid visa or travel booking if you’re visiting a country that requires one. Visa-exempt countries still require proof of intent to travel.
Can I use my Indian DL abroad without an IDP?
No. While some countries allow driving with an Indian DL for a limited time, most rental agencies and authorities require an IDP for legal and insurance purposes.
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