For people who travel overseas frequently, having an International Driving License (IDL) can be quite helpful. It permits you to drive abroad without facing any legal repercussions. In this article, we explain all essential information about the International Driving License in India, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, expenses, and more.
What is an International Driving License?
An International Driving Licence (IDL) is an official document which allows you to legally drive on foreign land. Also known as an International Driving Permit (IDP), this document is basically a multilingual translation of your Indian driver’s licence, which makes it simpler for foreign authorities to comprehend and confirm your driving skills. However, an IDL doesn’t replace your standard driving licence. Instead, you need to keep both your IDL and your standard driving licence if you want to legally drive abroad. An IDL is accepted in many countries, especially those that are signatories of the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic.
Eligibility for International Driving License in India
To apply for an International Driving Licence in India, you need to meet a particular eligibility criteria.
- You must possess a standard driver’s licence which permits you to drive in India. Without the standard driving licence, you are not eligible for the IDL.
- You must be at least eighteen years old.
- To be eligible for an IDL, you must be a citizen or a lawful resident of India or the country you are applying for the IDL.
- You must have copies of your valid passport, Visa, and airline tickets for verification.
Note: Individuals holding only a learner’s licence are not eligible to apply for an IDL.
How to Apply for an International Driving License
You can apply for an International Driving Licence either online or offline.
Online Application Process
- Visit the parivahan website: https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan//en.
- Click on the ‘Driving License Related Services’ option under the ‘Online Services’ section.
- Select your state.
- Click on ‘Apply for International Driving Permit (IDP)’.
- Click the ‘Continue’ button.
- Input the Driving License (DL) number, date of birth, and captcha.
- Accept the terms and conditions, and ‘Proceed’.
- Fill out the application form.
- Submit the required documents.
- Submit your photograph and signature.
- Pay the required fee.
Once the process is complete, your IDL shall be mailed to you within four to five days.
Offline Application Process
- Reach out to the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO) in your locality.
- Request for the application form for the International Driving Permit.
- Fill out the application form along with the necessary documents like a valid driving licence, passport, visa, and passport-sized photographs.
- Pay the required fee.
- Once the RTO completes the verification of your documents, your International Driving License will be granted to you either on the spot or you will receive it via mail.
Cost of International Driving License
The cost of an International Driving License is different in different countries. However, in India, it is generally between Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,500. This is the fee for the application process and associated administrative costs, however, additional charges may apply in case you use a third-party service to assist with the application.
Validity and Renewal of International Driving License
An International Driving Licence remains valid for one year from the date of issue or until the expiry of your standard driving licence, whichever is earlier. All the same, it is worth noting that the validity of the IDL depends on the rules and regulations of the country you have taken the IDL for. In some countries, the validity of IDL might be restricted concerning the duration of the Visa. Moreover, in case your IDL expires, you need to apply again for a new one because the IDL cannot be renewed.
Countries that accept International Driving License
More than 150 countries accept the International Driving Licence. These countries are majorly the ones which are signatories of the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. Some of these countries include:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- Canada
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Singapore
Nevertheless, it’s always advisable to check the requirements of the country you wish to drive in, as some nations may have additional conditions for foreign drivers.
Conclusion
An IDL is an essential document for anyone willing to drive on a foreign land. Most countries accept the International Driving Licence and applying for the same is simple. To get an International Driving Licence, ensure to meet the eligibility criteria and submit the required documents.
FAQ about International Driving Licence
Can drive in foreign countries only with my International Driving Licence?
No, you also need your standard driving licence along with the International Driving Licence to drive in foreign countries.
What is the validity of an International Driving Licence?
Once issued, the IDL is usually valid for a year, or until the driver’s standard driving licence expires, whichever comes first.
Can my International Driving Licence be renewed?
An International Driving Licence cannot be renewed. Once it’s expired, you need to apply for a new one.
Is an International Driving Licence accepted in all countries.
An International Driving Licence is generally accepted in countries which are signatories of the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. Some of these countries include the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, and Singapore.
