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How to Get an International Driving License
If you want to enjoy your foreign trip by renting a car, you need an international driving license.
04:31 15 February 2022
If you want to enjoy your foreign trip by renting a car, you need an international driving license. Well, when it comes to other countries, you need a special permit. Well, you have to follow a procedure to get your IDL.
You see, an international driver’s license is the translated version of your original license. With IDL, you can rent or drive a car in a foreign country. On the other hand, all foreigners who want to visit India also need this license to rent or drive a car.
In this article, we will cover how to apply for an international driving license. Moreover, we will also share the required documents and advantages of IDL. Make sure you read each point before applying for IDL. So, let’s get started.
Documents Required For International Driving License
Before you apply for your international driving license, you have to know about the required documents. Well, the documents for IDL or IDP depend on the country’s regulations. In this case, we will share the required documents in India. Let’s find out:
- Valid driving license
- 5 recent passport size photos
- Identity proof and copies
- Proof of your visa and copies
- Air ticket copy for verification
- An application of Form 4
- Medical certificate
- Copy of address and age proof
Besides these documents, you should check the eligibility as well. It’s more important if you are applying for IDP for the first time. To apply for IDL, you have to be at least 18 years old. On the other hand, you also need a valid driving license.
How to Apply For International Driving License
As we noted above, you need the required documents while applying for the international driver’s permit. Make sure you gather all these documents beforehand. You see, the IDP is issued by RTO Western India Automobile Association.
So, you have to fill out form 4 and form 1 to get the permit. On the other hand, you can also fill out an online application. In this case, you have to visit your state transport’s website. Then, you can download both forms and submit them at the RTO.
You have to pay Rs. 1000 during this process. Plus, you also have to pay Rs. 200 for the processing fee. You can get the permit within 2 days. Besides this process, you can also apply for IDP by visiting the official website of the International Control Traffic Association. You have to submit the required documents in this procedure:
- A valid copy of original driving license and passport
- Passport size photos
- Payment and processing fee
However, the best way to apply for IDP is via your state transport’s website. In most cases, it takes around 3-4 business days to get the copy. The requirements vary for different states. So, you have to know the regulations before applying. The good thing is you can get all the information on the official website.
There are some third-party websites that help people to get IDP. However, these portals can be fraudulent. If you want to use one of these sites, you have to verify it first. It would be best if you avoid these websites to have a hassle-free procedure.
Renewal of International Driver’s License
Unfortunately, you can’t renew your international driving license. As per the Indian Government’s law, an IDL is valid for one year. If you want IDP within three months of your application for the original driving license, you have to take another driving test.
You see, only Indian citizens can apply for this permit. There are various websites that help people to get an international driving permit. So, make sure you verify the website before applying.
Advantages of an International Driver’s License
Now, you know how to apply for IDL. The good thing is there are several advantages to this driving license. In the following list, we will share the top advantages of an international driving permit:
- IDL confirms that you have a valid driving license in your home country. Moreover, it will ensure your driving capability.
- As the IDL is the translated version of your original license, it will be easier to travel to a foreign country. Moreover, it will be easy for that country’s authorities to verify your id.
- Your license can be proof of your identity
- When you have IDP, you don’t need additional driving tests while renting a car
- IDP is accepted in more than 150 countries. So, you don’t have to apply for it every time you visit a new country
- There are several countries that won’t let you rent a car without an international driving permit
- Some car insurance companies also ask for IDP
Conclusion
You see, an international driving permit can be very important when you are visiting a foreign country. If you want to apply for this permit, make sure you are being careful from the beginning. We have shared the complete procedure in this article.
Plus, don’t forget to submit valid documents during this process. If you need more help, you can also check the official website.
FAQs
Q: Can I use my International Driver’s License for two-wheelers?
If you have a valid two-wheeler driving license in your home country, you can apply for the permit. Then, you can rent a two-wheeler or motorcycle in a foreign country.
Q: Which documents are required to apply for IDP?
There are various documents required for IDP including a valid driver’s license, 5 passport size photos, proof of visa, proof of passport, air ticket copy, form 4 application, and medical certificate.
Q: Which countries accept an International Driving License?
Around 150 countries accept an international driving permit. You can rent or drive a car in these counties with an IDP. However, IDP is only valid for one year period.
Q: Can I apply for IDP without a passport?
No, you can’t apply for an international driver’s permit without a passport. As this permit is for foreign countries, you can’t complete the application without your passport.