The open road calls to the traveler's soul, promising adventures in every twist and turn. To truly experience the freedom of the road, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is your passport to exploration. Whether you're planning an epic road trip through the picturesque landscapes of Europe, a journey across the vast American highways, or simply a drive through a foreign land, the IDP ensures you can navigate with confidence.
In this comprehensive guide, I'll take you through the process of obtaining an IDP, sharing my own experiences and insights. With this powerful document in hand, you'll be well-equipped to explore the world on wheels.
What Is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
Before we dive into the application process, it's crucial to understand what an International Driving Permit (IDP) is. An IDP is an official document that translates your native driver's license into multiple languages, allowing you to drive in foreign countries. It's universally recognized and provides essential information about your identity, the types of vehicles you can operate, and any restrictions or endorsements associated with your driving privileges.
Why Do You Need an IDP?
The IDP is your key to hassle-free travel by road. Here are a few reasons why obtaining an IDP is essential for travelers:
Language Barrier
When you're driving in a foreign country, you may encounter signs, documents, and law enforcement officers who do not speak your language. The multilingual IDP ensures that your vital driver's information is understood and respected.
Global Recognition
The IDP is recognized in over 150 countries, making it an invaluable travel document. It proves your driving qualifications and provides peace of mind for both you and the local authorities.
Avoiding Legal Hassles: Some countries require visitors to have an IDP for legal driving. Getting caught without one could lead to fines or other complications.
Rental Car Requirements
If you plan to rent a car abroad, many rental agencies will request to see your IDP. Having this document can simplify the rental process and help you secure your vehicle without any hitches.
In essence, the IDP is not just a convenience; it's your legal and practical ticket to exploring the world by car. Now, let's dive into the step-by-step process of obtaining your IDP.
Step-by-Step Guide for Indian Travelers to Obtain an IDP
International Driving Permit will be issued to an applicant who holds a valid Indian Licence and who is a resident of India.
Requirements
- Valid driving Licence held by the applicant and copies thereon.
- Copies of Passport, Visa, and Air ticket for verification.
- Fees as prescribed along with user charges.
Reference: https://parivahan.gov.in/parivahan//en/content/international-driving-permit-0
Submit Your Application
- Visit https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/sarathiservice/stateSelection.do and select the State from where the service is to be taken
- Click on Apply for International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Click Continue
- Fill your details and click Get DL Details
- Confirmed that the above Driving Licence details are mine: Yes
- Choose your RTO office and click Proceed
Tip: Choose the RTO office that your DL was issued from else they'll ask for a DL update and address change which isn't worth your time.
- Choose Issue Internation Driving Permit and click Proceed
- Fill the form with your details and click Confirm.
Tip: For COV grades for which IDP is requested, select both A and B. Hold shift and click the options for making the selection.
- Fill the fitness self declaration form and Submit
(a) Do you suffer from epilepsy, or from sudden attacks of loss of consciousness or giddiness from any cause? NO
(b) Are you able to distinguish with each eye (or if you have held a driving licence to drive a motor vehicle for a period of not less than five years and if you have lost, the sight of one eye after the said period of five years and if the application is for driving a light motor vehicle other than a transport vehicle fitted with an outside mirror on the steering wheel side) or with one eye, at a distance of 25 metres in good day light (with glasses , if worn) a motor car number plate? YES
(c) Have you lost either hand or foot or are you suffering from any defect in movement, control or muscular power of either arm or leg? NO
(d) Do you suffer from night blindness? NO
(e) Are you so deaf as to be unable to hear ( and if the application is for driving a light motor vehicle, with or without hearing aid) the ordinary sound signal? NO
(f) Do you suffer from any other disease or disability likely to cause your driving of a motor vehicle to be a source of danger to the public, if so, give details? NO
- Print your application and self-declaration form
Pay the fee and book your appointment
- Go to https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/sarathiservice/sarathiHomePublic.do and choose Fee Payments
- After successful payment, go to the same URL and choose Appointments to schedule your visit to the RTO
Visit the RTO
- Visit the RTO with all the documents: (a) application form (b) fitness self-declaration (c) passport and visa (original with copies) (d) flight tickets (e) DL (original with copies)
- You'll get the biometrics done, do a brief meeting with the ARTO. They usually ask a few questions like where are you travelling, what for, etc. and then you are done.
Await Processing
After submitting your application, there will be a processing period. The processing time may vary depending on the workload of your local RTO, but it's usually around 1 week.
Collect Your IDP
Once your IDP is processed and ready, you'll get a text message and you can collect it from your local RTO office. Remember to carry your original driver's license and a copy of your IDP application's acknowledgment receipt for verification.
Tip: As of writing this article (Nov 2023), IDP from India comes as a 2-sheet stamped A4 print-out. Cards/booklets are no longer in circulation. So, don't be surprised (like I was :D) when you get a couple of pieces of paper while collecting it.
Prepare for Your Adventure
Now that you have your IDP in hand, you're all set to explore the world on four wheels. Make several copies of your IDP and store the original in a secure place.
Before you hit the road in a foreign land, take a moment to acquaint yourself with the driving laws and regulations of the countries you plan to visit. Each nation may have unique road rules and signage that you should be aware of to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
May each mile be filled with wonder, each turn bring a new discovery, and each destination leave you with unforgettable memories. Bon voyage, and here's to a lifetime of incredible road adventures!
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