India

International Driving Permit for India license holders

In short

India drivers need an IDP in any country that requires one for foreign licences. It is a translation of your India licence, carried together with it. Indian drivers need an International Driving Permit to drive or rent a car in most countries abroad.

Indian drivers need an International Driving Permit to drive or rent a car in most countries abroad. Your International Driving Permit is the recognised multilingual translation of your existing licence, issued in the official UN-convention format and carried alongside your national licence.

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Last reviewed June 2026

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Driving abroad on a India license

Tap a country for the exact verdict for India drivers — required or recommended, the convention basis, and what to carry.

India drivers — common questions

01

Do India license holders need an International Driving Permit?

India drivers need an IDP in any country that requires one for foreign licences. It is a translation of your India licence, carried together with it. Indian drivers need an International Driving Permit to drive or rent a car in most countries abroad.

02

Is India part of the driving conventions?

India is party to 1949 Geneva Convention on road traffic, which govern which IDP format applies abroad.

03

How fast can a India driver get an IDP?

As fast as 8 minutes — enter your details and licence, pay, and your digital permit is emailed to you.