How to Apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP)
Get an Indian International Driving Permit (IDP) valid for one year across 150+ countries — exactly which RTO documents are needed, how it differs from a DL, and what to do if your DL is on a smart-card.
- Last verified
- 21 June 2026
- Official site
- parivahan.gov.in ↗
The International Driving Permit (IDP) is the Indian RTO's translated booklet that lets you drive abroad alongside your Indian DL. It is not a replacement — it only works when carried with the original Indian DL.
The IDP is issued by the same RTO that issued your DL. Most RTOs issue it same-day if your documents are clean: passport, visa, air ticket, original DL, Form 4A, Form 1A. Some states accept online appointment booking through Parivahan Sarathi to skip the queue.
The IDP is valid for 1 year or until your DL expires — whichever is earlier. There's no renewal — apply for a fresh IDP each time you travel.
Eligibility
- You hold a valid Indian Driving Licence (DL) — not a Learner's Licence.
- You have a confirmed international travel plan (passport + visa + travel proof).
- Your DL is valid for at least 1 year from the date of IDP application.
Required documents
Valid Indian DL
Original DL + photocopy. Must cover the vehicle class you intend to drive abroad.
Passport
Valid Indian passport — original + photocopy of the personal-details page.
Visa
Valid visa for the country / countries you intend to drive in.
Air ticket
Confirmed air ticket showing date of travel.
Form 4A
Application form for IDP — filled and submitted at the RTO.
Form 1A medical certificate
Self-declaration of fitness.
Passport-size photographs
Usually 2–3 recent photos.
Step-by-step process
- 1
Visit the RTO that issued your DL
IDPs are issued by the same RTO that issued your DL. Some states allow online appointment booking via Parivahan Sarathi.
sarathi.parivahan.gov.in ↗ - 2
Carry originals + photocopies
Carry DL, passport, visa, air ticket, Form 4A, Form 1A, and passport-size photos. Photocopies should be self-attested.
- 3
Submit Form 4A
Fill the IDP application form (Form 4A) at the RTO counter.
- 4
Pay the IDP fee
Pay the prescribed IDP fee at the RTO counter or online.
- 5
Biometric / verification
Some RTOs capture a fresh photo and biometric for the IDP booklet.
- 6
Receive the IDP booklet
The IDP is a small printed booklet issued at the RTO (often same-day or within a few days). It carries your photo and DL details translated into multiple official languages.
Official website
Always confirm critical details here
parivahan.gov.in
Common mistakes
- Applying without a confirmed visa / travel plan — RTOs require travel proof to issue an IDP.
- Letting the parent DL get close to expiry — the IDP becomes invalid the moment the DL expires.
- Treating the IDP as a standalone licence — it is only valid alongside the original Indian DL. Always carry both abroad.
- Applying for an IDP in a state where you don't hold the DL — IDPs are issued only by the DL-issuing RTO.
Frequently asked questions
How long is an Indian IDP valid?▾
1 year from the date of issue, or until the parent DL expires — whichever is earlier.
Is the IDP accepted in every country?▾
It is honoured in countries that are party to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic — over 150 countries. Always check the specific country's rules before driving.
Can I renew an IDP after it expires?▾
IDPs are not renewed — you apply for a fresh one each time, with new travel proof.
I have a digital DL on DigiLocker. Do I need to carry a physical DL?▾
For IDP application, RTOs usually require the original physical DL. Confirm with your RTO before visiting.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Government portals, document requirements, and fees can change without notice. Always verify the latest requirements on the official website before you apply. Last verified on 21 June 2026.