How to get International Driving License in India?
When traveling abroad, some people opt for public transportation like buses, while others prefer exploring new places by bike or car. In India, you can navigate every corner with an Indian driving license. However, to drive on foreign streets and highways, an International Driving License is required.
What Is an International Driving Permit/License?
The Road Transport Authority of India issues an international driving permit, a legal document that allows you to drive cars or motorcycles internationally.
This permit serves as an official translation of your domestic driver’s license, providing translations in languages recognized abroad.
How to Apply for an International Driving license in India?
To apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP), you can either visit the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways website or get permission directly from your local RTO.
Steps to Apply:
- Complete the Forms:
- Form 4A: Certification of riding competence
- Form 1A: Medical fitness form
- Provide Documentation: Submit your driving license details, proof of identity, and residential proof.
- Submit Documents: Along with the completed forms, submit all required documents.
- Take the Driving Test: Complete any necessary driving tests.
- Pay Fees: A fee of ₹1,000 is required at the time of submission.
Once you complete these steps, your application will be processed, and you should receive your IDP within 4 to 5 business days.
Applying online simplifies the process, but if you prefer, you can apply offline at your local RTO. There, you will need to fill out the forms, pay the fee, and submit the necessary documents. The RTO will then translate your license into an international format.
Eligibility Criteria for an International Driving Permit:
- Must be an Indian citizen aged 18 or older.
- Must hold a valid Indian driving license.
- Must possess a valid passport and visa.
Documents Required to Apply for an International Driving Permit
Here is a list of documents needed to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in India:
- Forms 4A and 1A
- Copy of a valid driver’s license
- Copy of passport and visa
- Duplicate air tickets for verification
- Application fee of ₹1,000
- Passport-sized photographs as required
- Certified proof of Indian citizenship
- Copy of address proof
- Copy of age proof
With this information on the required documents, let’s explore the process for renewing an International Driving Permit.
How to Renew International Driving license in India?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is valid for one year from the date of issuance.
Previously, renewing an IDP was not possible, but recent amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act now allow for renewal. To renew your IDP, follow these steps:
- Download and Complete Forms: Obtain the miscellaneous application form from the Indian Embassy website and fill it out.
- Submit Required Documents:
- Original and copies of your valid passport and visa
- Original IDP and Indian driving license
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement, state identity card, or mortgage deed)
- Passport-sized photographs as required
- Pay the Renewal Fee: Submit a renewal fee of ₹2,000 along with the completed forms and documents. You will receive a payment receipt and a certificate of identification from the embassy.
- Apply Online: Submit your application through the MoRTH official website, uploading all documents provided by the embassy.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways will process your renewal and send the reissued IDP to your postal address.
If you encounter any issues while renewing your permit abroad, contact MoRTH for assistance. This process allows you to extend the validity of your IDP for another year.
What Are the Benefits of an International Driving Permit?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) ensures you can drive abroad without facing issues with foreign authorities. It also offers several additional benefits:
- Rent and drive a car in foreign countries
- Serve as a form of identity verification
- Avoid additional driving tests abroad
- Use it to drive in approximately 150 countries
- File insurance claims for accidents abroad
- Facilitate communication with foreign officials
- Explore scenic countryside roads
Now is the perfect time to apply for an IDP and take your vehicle on an international journey. With an IDP, you’ll be able to rent and drive cars smoothly on foreign roads without encountering problems with local authorities.
Get International Travel Insurance
An International Driving Permit (IDP) alone isn’t enough for complete travel safety. It’s crucial to invest in Travel Insurance for comprehensive protection. Regardless of your travel purpose—whether for work or leisure—travel insurance offers essential benefits:
- Trip Cancellation: If you need to cancel your travel plans due to illness, injury, or other unforeseen events, travel insurance will cover ticket cancellations and other expenses, alleviating your stress.
- Medical Emergencies: Should you face a medical emergency abroad, especially if it’s related to driving, travel insurance will cover your medical costs and provide peace of mind.
- Emergency Evacuations: Travel insurance can assist with emergency evacuations, such as airlifts or medically equipped flights back home, ensuring you receive the necessary care when away from home.
- Baggage Issues: In case of lost or delayed baggage, or flight delays, travel insurance provides compensation, helping you manage unexpected disruptions.
- Phone Assistance: Travel insurance includes 24/7 phone support, allowing you to connect with assistance or loved ones whenever needed.
- Personal Liability: This coverage protects you against liabilities that may arise while driving abroad, such as damage to rental vehicles or personal injuries. With comprehensive international travel insurance, you may not need additional car insurance.
Ensure your travel experience is safeguarded by securing travel insurance for complete protection on your journey.
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Disclaimer: This information is added only for informative purposes and collected from different sources across the Internet. Thezipco is not promoting or recommending anything here. Please verify the information before making any decisions.
