International Driving Permit
Apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) at your local RTO (offline application, often via Sarathi for appointment/status) if you already hold a valid Indian Driving Licence and plan to drive abroad.
Required Documents
Step-by-Step Process
Confirm Eligibility and Destination Requirements
Check that your Indian DL is valid and that the destination country recognizes the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP (most of Europe, US states, etc. accept it alongside your Indian DL).
Submit Application to Your RTO
Fill Form 4A along with your DL, passport copy, visa/ticket proof, and photos, and submit at the RTO under whose jurisdiction your DL was issued.
Pay Fee and Submit Biometrics if Asked
Pay the nominal IDP fee (usually a few hundred rupees) at the RTO counter; some RTOs may verify your signature/photo again in person.
Collect the IDP Booklet
The IDP is usually issued as a small booklet within a few days to a couple of weeks, valid for 1 year from issue or until your Indian DL expires, whichever is earlier.
Pro Tips & Warnings
- An IDP is only a translation/certification of your Indian DL, not a standalone licence - you must carry both your original Indian DL and the IDP together while driving abroad.
- Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your international trip since processing time and appointment availability varies significantly by RTO.
- The IDP is valid for only 1 year regardless of your Indian DL's remaining validity, so time your application close to your travel dates rather than years in advance.