An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a supporting document for eligible Indian licence holders travelling abroad; it is not a replacement for the valid domestic licence or a guarantee that every country, rental company or vehicle class will accept it. Apply through the competent licensing authority and check the destination’s rules before travel.
Who this guide is for
This guide is for Indian driving-licence holders planning temporary driving abroad. Destination-country rules, visa status, licence class and travel dates matter.
Before you start
- Confirm that the Indian DL is valid for the intended vehicle class.
- Check the destination government or recognised motoring guidance for IDP acceptance.
- Review passport, visa and travel-date requirements.
- Allow time for verification instead of relying on an airport agent.
Step-by-step process
- Select the issuing state on SARATHI and locate the IDP service.
- Review eligibility and prepare the current DL, passport and travel documents.
- Complete the application accurately, including destination and travel information.
- Upload requested files and pay only through the official route.
- Attend verification if directed and retain the acknowledgement.
- Carry the issued IDP together with the valid Indian DL and other required travel documents.
Documents and information to prepare
Valid Indian DL for the relevant class.
Passport, visa and destination information as required.
Photo, forms and medical declaration where applicable.
Travel dates or tickets if the authority requests them.
Common problems and practical fixes
| Problem | What to do |
|---|---|
| Destination is not recognised | Verify the convention or local rule with the destination authority; do not assume universal acceptance. |
| Name differs across documents | Resolve the discrepancy or provide accepted supporting proof before travel. |
| Departure is very near | Use only official expedited options if any; guaranteed same-day offers may be fraudulent. |
Safety and privacy checks
Do not upload passport and visa scans to a travel agent’s unknown link. Rental and insurance conditions are separate from licensing permission.
- Type or bookmark the official address instead of trusting an advertisement or unsolicited message.
- Do not share passwords, OTPs, UPI PINs or card credentials with an agent or with Parivaahan.org.
- Save the official acknowledgement or receipt, but keep personal documents out of public comments and emails.
Frequently asked questions
Does an IDP work without my Indian DL?
Generally it accompanies the valid domestic licence; carry both.
Can it be used permanently abroad?
It is designed for limited use under destination rules, not as permanent local licensing.
Is every vehicle class covered?
Only the entitlement reflected by the valid underlying licence and applicable rules.
Official source and related reading
Start with the official SARATHI portal and confirm the department and state shown before entering personal data. Related guides: DL renewal guide, safety guide.
Have you found an outdated step? Use our Contact page and include a public official source. Do not send private identity or payment information.