International Driving Permit: 10 countries where you can drive with an Indian driving license; Check List

International Driving Permit: When we go on international trips to new countries, most of the people usually use local transportation to travel. However, driving through beautiful exotic landscapes is a Bollywood dream come true for us Indians. Interestingly, some countries allow you to drive with just your Indian driving license, without the need for an International Driving Permit (IDP). This means you can easily explore these countries using your Indian license, without the hassle of obtaining specific local licenses.

  1. United States of america: Most states allow you to drive a rental car with your Indian Driving License (DL) for up to 1 year, as long as it is valid and in English. You will also need to carry an I-94 form, which shows when you entered the United States.
  2. Australia: Your Indian driving license will allow you to drive in some areas for up to 3 months, provided it is in English. Also, you have to drive on the left side of the road like in India.
  3. Germany: You can drive with your Indian driving license for 6 months. Remember to obey local traffic rules as Germans drive on the right. A German-translated driving license may be required and it is advisable to carry an International Driving Permit.
  4. United Kingdom: You can drive in England, Wales and Scotland for 1 year with your Indian driving license. However, you can only drive certain types of vehicles.
  5. Switzerland: You can drive in Switzerland for 1 year with your Indian driving license. Please make sure your driving license is in English.
  6. South Africa: You can drive in South Africa with your Indian driving license if it is in English with your photograph and signature. Some rental agencies may require an International Driving License.
  7. Sweden: Your driving license must be in English, Swedish, German, French or Norwegian. It must have a valid ID attached to it and is valid for 1 year.
  8. Singapore: You can drive in Singapore with your Indian driving license for 1 year. Please make sure your driving license is in English or translated.
  9. Spain: You can drive in Spain for up to 6 months after registering for residence. Your driver's license must be in English and accompanied by an approved ID.
  10. Canada: You can drive in Canada with your Indian driving license for 60 days and then get a Canadian driving license. Remember to follow traffic rules and drive on the right side of the road.

How to apply for an International Driving License?

Whether it's for leisure or business, you may be traveling abroad and may want to drive a car or bike while traveling in that country. As listed above, the Indian license is accepted in many countries; However, an International Driving License or Permit (IDP) will enable you to drive in other countries as well. Applying for an IDP is easy, and you can apply for it at the local Regional Transport Office (RTO). Below is a step-by-step guide on how to get an International Driving License in India.

Documents Required for International Driving Permit (IDP)

Here are the documents required to obtain IDP.

  • Valid Indian Driving License
  • valid indian passport
  • valid visa
  • air ticket for verification

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for IDP

You can follow the steps given below to apply for IDP.

Phase 1: Fill Form 4-A available in the local RTO.

Phase 2: Pay the IDP fee, which is Rs 1,000.

step 3: Attach copies of supporting documents like your DL, passport, visa and air ticket for verification.

step 4: Your IDP will be sent by post to the registered residential address.