Planning to go on a road trip in a foreign country? Or maybe you want to easily explore the hidden gems of a foreign city on a motorcycle.
Either way, to drive a vehicle in a foreign country, you need an International Driving License or International Driving Permit (as it’s officially known).
Now applying for an international driving licence in India is easier than ever with Parivahan. Parivahan is the Government of India’s online portal for all road transport-related services. Just following these 13 steps is all that is required.
13 Steps to Apply for International Driving Licence via Parivahan
Step 1: Visit the Parivahan Website
Begin by visiting the Parivahan website. Under the “Online Services” tab, select “Driving Related Services” to proceed. You’ll be redirected to the Sarathi Parivahan website.
Step 2: Select Your State
Here, select your state from the dropdown menu. Although this guide takes Kerala as an example, the process is similar across other Indian states, with minor variations in user interface.
Step 3: Choose the IDP Option
Among the services listed, look for the “Issue International Driving Permit” option and select it.
Step 4: Enter License Details
Input your driving license number and date of birth to proceed.
Step 5: Confirm Personal Details
The system will fetch your details. Confirm the accuracy of your personal information, then enter your mobile number and email ID, along with your present and permanent addresses as per your driving license.
Step 6: Mobile OTP Verification
Verify your mobile number through the OTP authentication process.
Step 7: Select IDP Service
Now, choose “Issue International Driving Permit” from the various services available.
Step 8: Enter Passport and Visa Details
You’ll be required to fill in your passport and visa details and specify the country for which the IDP is requested.
Step 9: Declaration
A confirmation message will appear upon successful data submission. Make a declaration confirming your license has never been impounded and that the details provided are correct as per your driving license and Aadhaar.
Step 10: Physical Fitness Self-Declaration
Indicate your physical fitness by responding ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ to each point as prompted.
Step 11: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of your driving license and passport.
Step 12: Fee Payment
Pay the IDP charge of Rs 1000 through one of the provided payment options.
Step 13: Application Completion
With the payment receipt printed, your application process is complete.
Post-Submission
After submitting your application, the authorised Regional Transport Office (RTO) will verify your documents. Once verified, your IDP will be issued. You can either collect it from the RTO or have it dispatched to your address. From application to getting the IDP approved usually takes around 4 to 5 days. So make sure to apply well in advance before your flight abroad.
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To conclude, the 13-step process mentioned above will ensure a smooth and hassle-free process to obtain your International Driving Licence online in India. It is a crucial document for anyone looking to drive internationally, acting as a valid form of identification in over 150 countries worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
The fee for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in India is Rs 1000. Also, there will be a service fee which will be different depending on your state.
The process usually takes around 4 to 5 days from application to approval and issuance of the International Driving Licence.
An Indian International Driving Licence (IDP) is valid for one year from the date of issuance, unless your domestic driving licence expires before that period.
An Indian driving license is valid in some countries. You can use it to rent a car to drive. However, there is a catch. If the driver’s license is in a regional language and not in English, then it won’t be accepted abroad. You’d need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for international validity. The IDP will contain the translation of your Indian Driving Licence in English and is internationally accepted in more than 150 countries.
Also Read: 10 Countries to go on a road trip with your Indian driving licence
