How to get International Driving Permit in India
Planning to drive in a foreign country? Before you hit international roads, there’s one document you shouldn’t miss — the International Driving Permit (IDP). For Indian licence holders, getting an IDP is a straightforward process, whether you apply online through the government portal or visit your local RTO. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide explaining who can apply, what documents are needed, and how you can obtain an IDP in India without hassle.
Check your eligibility
Before applying, ensure that you hold a valid Indian driving licence and have a valid passport and visa, are 18 years or older
Keep required documents ready
- Original and copies of your Indian driving licence
- Copy of passport and valid visa
- 3–4 recent passport-size photographs
- A copy of air ticket may be required by some RTOs for verification
- Aadhaar
Apply Online
- Visit the official Parivahan portal.
- Select the state where your driving licence was issued.
- Go to Driving Licence Services and click on “Apply for International Driving Permit (IDP)”.
- Enter your driving licence number and date of birth.
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents and photographs.
- Pay the standard fee of ₹1,000, along with any applicable RTO service charges.
- Payment modes accepted:
- UPI, debit card, credit card, or net banking.
Complete Verification
Aadhaar-based authentication may be required., You may be asked to visit the RTO for Biometric verification and Submit of original documents
Receive your IDP
Once approved, the IDP is usually dispatched within 3–7 working days to your registered address.
Apply offline
- Visit the RTO under whose jurisdiction you reside.
- Fill and submit Form 4A.
- Attach physical copies of all required documents.
- Pay the prescribed fee at the counter.
- Some RTOs may conduct a brief interaction to assess awareness of international road signs.
- After verification, the IDP is generally delivered within 3–7 working days.