International Driving Permit Guide - Apply for IDP through mParivahan
Complete guide to applying for an International Driving Permit (IDP) online. Learn about eligibility, required documents, fees, and the step-by-step process through Sarathi Parivahan.
What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official document that allows Indian citizens to drive motor vehicles in foreign countries. The IDP is issued based on your existing permanent driving licence and translates your driving credentials into multiple languages.
The IDP is recognized in over 150 countries that are signatories to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. It serves as a translation of your Indian driving licence and is not a standalone document. You must carry your original Indian driving licence along with the IDP while driving abroad.
150+ Countries
Valid in countries that are signatories to the Geneva Convention
1 Year Validity
IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue
Drive Abroad
Legally drive in foreign countries with your Indian licence
Multilingual
Translates your DL information into multiple languages
Eligibility for International Driving Permit
To apply for an International Driving Permit, you must meet certain eligibility criteria set by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The IDP is only issued to Indian citizens who hold a valid permanent driving licence.
Make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements before starting the application process. Having an invalid or expired driving licence will result in your IDP application being rejected.
- Valid Permanent Driving Licence: You must hold a valid permanent driving licence issued by an Indian RTO. Learning licence holders are not eligible for an IDP.
- Indian Citizenship: Only Indian citizens can apply for an IDP through Indian RTOs. You need to provide proof of citizenship (Passport).
- Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for an International Driving Permit.
- Valid Passport: A valid Indian passport is mandatory for IDP application as it serves as proof of citizenship and identity.
- Visa (if applicable): Some RTOs may require a copy of your visa for the country you plan to visit.
How to Apply for International Driving Permit Online
Applying for an International Driving Permit online through the Sarathi Parivahan portal is a straightforward process. The application can be completed from your home.
Follow the step-by-step instructions below to submit your IDP application successfully. Ensure you have your passport and driving licence details ready before starting.
Visit Sarathi Parivahan Portal
Go to parivahan.gov.in and navigate to the Sarathi Parivahan section. Select your state and the RTO office where your permanent driving licence was issued.
Select IDP Application
Click on "Apply for International Driving Permit" from the list of available services. Enter your driving licence number and date of birth to verify your identity.
Fill Form 4A
Complete the IDP application form (Form 4A) with your personal details, passport information, driving licence details, and the countries you plan to visit.
Upload Required Documents
Upload scanned copies of your valid Indian passport, permanent driving licence, proof of address, passport-size photographs, and visa copy (if applicable).
Pay the Application Fee
Pay the IDP application fee of approximately Rs. 1,000 online using net banking, UPI, debit card, or credit card. The fee may vary slightly by state.
Visit RTO for Verification
After online submission, you may need to visit the RTO office with original documents for verification. The RTO will verify your documents and process the IDP application.
Receive Your IDP
Upon successful verification, your International Driving Permit will be issued. It is typically dispatched within 1-2 weeks to your registered address or can be collected from the RTO office.
Countries Where IDP is Valid
The International Driving Permit issued in India is recognized in over 150 countries that are signatories to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. Below are some of the major countries where your IDP will be accepted.
Always check with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit for the most up-to-date information on IDP acceptance and any additional requirements.
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| North America | United States, Canada, Mexico |
| Europe | United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland |
| Asia-Pacific | Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia |
| Middle East | United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain |
| Africa | South Africa, Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria |
| South America | Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia |
Documents Required for IDP Application
| Document Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Permanent DL | Original driving licence with at least 6 months validity remaining |
| Indian Passport | Valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining |
| Proof of Citizenship | Passport serves as proof of citizenship |
| Proof of Address | Aadhaar Card, Passport, or Utility Bill |
| Visa Copy | Copy of visa for the country you plan to visit (if applicable) |
| Photographs | Recent passport-size photographs |
| Form 4A | Filled and signed IDP application form |
| Fee Receipt | Payment receipt for the IDP fee paid online |
Frequently Asked Questions About International Driving Permit
How long is an International Driving Permit valid?
Can I drive in any country with an IDP?
Do I need to carry my original DL along with the IDP?
Can I apply for an IDP with a learning licence?
What is the fee for an International Driving Permit?
Can I apply for an IDP online?
Can I get an IDP if my DL is from one state and I live in another?
Planning to Drive Abroad?
Apply for your International Driving Permit through the official Parivahan Sewa portal. Drive legally in over 150 countries worldwide.
Disclaimer: This is an independent informational website. We are NOT affiliated with the Government of India, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, or the official Parivahan Sewa portal. For official services, visit parivahan.gov.in.