International Driving Licence Rules in India - IDP Eligibility, Validity & Legal Use
An International Driving Licence, officially known as an International Driving Permit (IDP), allows Indian licence holders to legally drive motor vehicles in foreign countries that recognise the permit under international conventions.
International Driving Licence rules in India are governed by:
- Motor Vehicles Act, 1988
- Central Motor Vehicle Rules
- International conventions such as the Geneva Convention (1949)
This page acts as a legal and procedural authority guide and explains:
- What an International Driving Licence is
- Who is eligible to apply from India
- Validity period and renewal rules
- Countries where IDP is accepted
- Common mistakes and legal limitations
- Clear next steps using official services
Last Updated: 2026
(As per Parivahan & Ministry of Road Transport guidelines)
Quick Overview: International Driving Licence (India)
| Topic | Summary |
|---|---|
| Official Name | International Driving Permit (IDP) |
| Issuing Authority | Regional Transport Office (RTO) |
| Governing Law | Motor Vehicles Act + CMVR |
| Eligibility | Valid Indian Permanent DL |
| Validity | 1 Year |
| Renewal | Not extendable |
| Countries Covered | 100+ (Convention-based) |
| Digital Copy | Not valid alone |
What Is an International Driving Licence?
An International Driving Licence is a translated and standardised document that:
- Works along with your Indian driving licence
- Allows foreign authorities to verify your driving eligibility
- Is not a standalone licence
❗ You must carry your original Indian DL along with the IDP.
➡ Related: Rules for holding a valid permanent licence: Permanent Driving Licence Rules in India.
Eligibility Criteria for International Driving Licence
To apply for an IDP in India, you must:
- Hold a valid Permanent Driving Licence
- Be 18 years or older
- Have a valid passport and visa
- Not be disqualified or suspended from driving
- Apply from the issuing RTO of your DL
❗ Learner licence holders are not eligible.
➡ If you don't yet hold a permanent licence, first check: How to get a permanent driving licence in India.
Validity Rules for International Driving Licence
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity Period | 1 Year |
| Extension | ❌ Not allowed |
| Re-application | Required after expiry |
| Country Restriction | Depends on destination country |
❗ IDP validity cannot exceed 1 year, even if your Indian DL is valid longer.
Countries Where International Driving Licence Is Accepted
International Driving Licences issued in India are generally accepted in:
- USA
- UK
- Germany
- France
- Australia
- UAE
- Singapore
- Canada (provincial rules apply)
Acceptance depends on:
- Local transport laws
- Type of vehicle
- Visa status
➡ Before travel, always verify with the destination country's transport authority.
How to Apply for International Driving Licence in India
The application process is handled only through official RTO / Parivahan systems.
Basic steps:
- Ensure your Indian DL is valid
- Apply online via Parivahan
- Book RTO appointment
- Submit documents and biometrics
- Collect IDP from RTO
➡ Step-by-step guide available here: Apply for International Driving Licence Online in India.
Documents Required for International Driving Licence
Mandatory documents include:
- Permanent Indian Driving Licence
- Passport (original + copy)
- Visa copy
- Passport-size photographs
- Medical certificate (Form 1A, if required)
Fees for International Driving Licence
| Fee Component | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| IDP Issuance Fee | ₹1,000 |
| Medical Test Fee | As applicable |
| Service Charges | RTO-specific |
Important Restrictions & Legal Limitations
An International Driving Licence:
- ❌ Cannot be used for commercial driving abroad
- ❌ Cannot replace local driving licence permanently
- ❌ Is invalid without Indian DL
- ❌ Cannot be renewed or extended
Driving outside allowed categories may result in:
- Fines
- Licence cancellation abroad
- Insurance rejection
Common Reasons for IDP Application Rejection
- Expired Indian driving licence
- Learner licence instead of permanent DL
- Incorrect visa type
- DL issued from different RTO jurisdiction
International Driving Licence - Service Hub
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Is International Driving Licence mandatory for foreign driving?
In many countries, yes—especially if your Indian DL is not in English.
2.Can I apply online for IDP?
Yes, through the Parivahan portal, followed by RTO verification.
3.Is DigiLocker DL valid abroad?
No. Physical Indian DL is required.
4.Can students apply for IDP?
Yes, if they hold a valid permanent DL and visa.
Legal Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only. International Driving Licence acceptance depends on foreign country laws. Always verify requirements with the destination country's transport authority. Rules are based on Indian law and international conventions.