Overseas Driving Guide

International Driving Permit (IDP)

Planning to drive abroad? Learn how to apply for an IDP online. Download Form 4A, check visa requirements, exact RTO fees, and validity rules.

Last Updated: June 3, 2026

1. What is an IDP?
2. Documents Required Checklist
3. How to Apply Online
4. Processing Time & Fees
5. Frequently Asked Questions

What is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official document issued by your local RTO that translates your Indian Driving Licence into multiple foreign languages. It is recognized in over 150 countries under the 1949 Geneva Convention. mParivahan is the mobile companion to the national vehicle management system Vahan 4.0 — both platforms provide access to IDP applications and all other RTO services digitally.

IDP Validity Rule

An IDP issued in India is valid for exactly 1 year from the date of issue, or until your Indian Driving Licence expires—whichever comes first. It cannot be renewed; you must apply for a fresh IDP if it expires.

Documents Required for IDP

Because the IDP is heavily tied to international travel, the RTO requires strict proof of your travel plans. You must upload scanned copies and bring the originals to the RTO:

✅ Valid Indian Driving Licence
✅ Valid Indian Passport
✅ Valid Visa for the destination country
✅ Flight Tickets (Round trip/Onward)
✅ Form 1A (Medical Certificate)
✅ 3-4 Passport Size Photographs

Form 4A (IDP Application)

This is the official form required for an International Driving Permit.

Download Form 4A

How to Apply for IDP Online (Sarathi)

Login to Sarathi Parivahan

Visit the Sarathi portal, select your state, and click on "Apply for International Driving Permit (IDP)". Enter your existing DL number and Date of Birth.

Update Travel Details

You must enter the destination country, your passport number, visa details, and the purpose of your visit (Tourism, Business, Education).

Document Upload & Fee Payment

Upload scanned copies of your passport, visa, flight tickets, and Medical Form 1A. Proceed to pay the online fee.

RTO Visit (Mandatory)

Unlike some services, IDP processing is not faceless. You must physically visit the RTO with your original passport, visa, and tickets. The RTO official will verify them before issuing the IDP booklet.

Apply for IDP on Sarathi →

IDP Fees & Processing Time

The standard fee for an International Driving Permit set by the central government is ₹1,000. Some states may add a small ₹50 - ₹200 user charge or smart card fee if applicable.

If you have all your original documents (Passport, Visa, Tickets) in order when you visit the RTO, the IDP is usually processed and handed over to you on the same day or within 24-48 hours. It is highly recommended to apply at least 1-2 weeks before your flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need an IDP if my licence is in English?

Many countries (like the US, UK, Australia, and UAE) allow you to drive on a standard Indian Smart Card DL for a limited time (e.g., 3 months) if it is entirely in English. However, rental car companies and insurance agencies heavily prefer or mandate an IDP. It is always safer to carry one.

2. Can I apply for an IDP if my Indian DL is from another state?

No. You must apply for an IDP from the specific RTO where your current Indian Driving Licence was issued. If you have moved, you must first change the address on your DL to your current state before applying.

3. Can I apply for an IDP while I am already abroad?

Yes. Recently, the government introduced a process where Indian citizens already abroad can apply for an IDP through the Indian Embassy/High Commission in their host country. The embassy will verify your passport and visa and forward the request to the Parivahan portal.