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International driving permit: The Ultimate Guide to Obtaining an International Driving Permit in India

How to apply for International Driving Permit

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an essential document for those planning to drive abroad. Here is a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to apply for an IDP in India, including details on fees and the official website.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before starting the application process, ensure you meet the following requirements:

  • Valid Driving License: You must have a valid Indian Driving License.
  • Age: The minimum age for applying for an IDP is generally 18 years.
  • Residency: You should be a resident of India with a valid address.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

  1. Access the Online Form:
    • Visit the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways MoRTH.
    • Navigate to the “Online Services” section and select “International Driving Permit” or “IDP”.
  2. Complete the Form:
    • Enter personal details such as name, address, Driving License number, and contact information.
    • Review all information before submission.
  3. Print and Sign the Form:
    • If filling out the form offline, print it and sign where required.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following documents for your IDP application:

  • Driving License: Original and a copy.
  • Recent Photograph: Usually, a photo size 3.5 x 4.5 cm.
  • Proof of Address: A recent document proving your residential address.
  • Completed Application Form: Filled and signed.
  • Application Fee: Check the current fee on the official website or at the regional office.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

  1. Verify the Fee Amount:
    • The fee may vary, so check the exact amount on the official website or at the local transport office.
  2. Payment Methods:
    • Online: Access the MoRTH portal and use the available online payment methods.
    • In Person: Pay the fee at the local transport office where you are applying for the IDP.

Step 5: Schedule a Visit to the Transport Office

Depending on your state, you may need to visit the office in person to submit your documents. Here’s how:

  • Find a Local Office:
    • Use the office locator on the official website to find the nearest office.
  • Schedule an Appointment:
    • Some offices offer online appointment scheduling to avoid queues. Check the official portal or contact the office.

Step 6: Receive Your IDP

  1. Processing Time:
    • Processing for the IDP may take a few days to a few weeks, depending on the volume of applications and the efficiency of the local office.
  2. Collection or Delivery:
    • In-Person Collection: If you choose to pick up your IDP in person, visit the transport office after the processing period.
    • Mail Delivery: In some cases, the IDP may be mailed to your address. Ensure you provide a valid mailing address.

Fees and Official Website

  • Fees: The fee for applying for an IDP may vary. Check the exact amount and payment methods available on the official MoRTH website.
  • Official Website: For more information, forms, and to track your application, visit Parivahan.

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Documents required for International Driving Permit

To successfully apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in India, you will need to gather and submit the following documents:

1. Valid Indian Driving License

  • Requirement: A current, valid Driving License issued by the Indian authorities.
  • Details: You must provide both the original and a copy of your driving license.

2. Recent Photograph

  • Requirement: A passport-sized photograph.
  • Details: Typically, the photo should be 3.5 x 4.5 cm in size. Ensure the photo is recent and clear.

3. Proof of Address

  • Requirement: A document proving your residential address.
  • Details: Acceptable documents include utility bills, bank statements, or rental agreements. The document should be recent and show your current address.

4. Completed Application Form

  • Requirement: The application form for the IDP.
  • Details: You can fill out this form online or offline. Ensure all fields are accurately filled in and the form is signed where required.

5. Application Fee

  • Requirement: The fee for processing the IDP application.
  • Details: The fee amount can vary. Check the current fee on the official website or at the local transport office. Payment can be made online or in person.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Access the Application Form
    • Visit the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways MoRTH.
    • Navigate to the “Online Services” section and select “International Driving Permit” or “IDP.”
  2. Fill Out the Form
    • Complete the application form with your personal details, including your name, address, Driving License number, and contact information.
    • Review and verify all information before submission.
  3. Gather Required Documents
    • Collect the documents listed above: Valid Driving License (original and copy), recent photograph, proof of address, completed application form, and the application fee.
  4. Submit the Application
    • Online: Upload the completed form and documents on the MoRTH website and pay the application fee.
    • In-Person: If required, visit the local transport office to submit the form and documents, and pay the fee.
  5. Track Your Application
    • After submission, you can track the status of your application online via the official MoRTH website.

Official Website

  • Website: Parivahan
  • Purpose: Provides access to the IDP application form, fee details, and tracking information.

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How to check the status of their application for an IDP

To check the status of your International Driving Permit (IDP) application in India, follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

  1. Go to the MoRTH Website:
    • Access the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways MoRTH at Parivahan

Step 2: Navigate to the IDP Section

  1. Find the ‘Online Services’ Section:
    • On the homepage, look for the “Online Services” menu or tab. Click on it to expand the options.
  2. Select ‘International Driving Permit’:
    • From the available options, select “International Driving Permit” or “IDP”. This will direct you to the IDP-related services.

Step 3: Access Application Status

  1. Click on ‘Track Application Status’:
    • Look for an option labeled “Track Application Status” or similar. Click on this option to proceed.
  2. Enter Required Details:
    • You will be prompted to enter certain details to track your application. These details typically include:
      • Application Reference Number: This is the unique number you received when you submitted your IDP application.
      • Date of Birth: Enter your date of birth in the format requested.
    • Ensure you enter these details accurately to retrieve the correct status information.
  3. Submit the Information:
    • After entering the required details, click the “Submit” or “Track” button to view the status of your application.

Step 4: Review Application Status

  1. Check the Status:
    • The system will display the current status of your IDP application. Common statuses include “Processing,” “Approved,” or “Rejected.”
    • Review the status and any additional details provided, such as estimated processing time or reasons for delays.
  2. Print or Save the Status:
    • If needed, you can print or save the status information for your records. This can be helpful for future reference or if you need to follow up with the transport office.

Step 5: Contact the Transport Office (If Necessary)

  1. Visit the Local Transport Office:
    • If you are unable to find your application status online or if there are issues, visit your local transport office for assistance.
  2. Provide Details:
    • Bring your application reference number and any identification documents. The office staff will help you check the status and resolve any issues.

Official Website

  • Website: Parivahan
  • Purpose: Allows you to track the status of your IDP application and access other related services.

Where to find help and official channels

1. Official Website

  • Website: Parivahan.
    • Purpose: The official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) provides comprehensive information on IDP applications, including forms, fees, and status tracking. It also offers FAQs and contact information.

2. Local Transport Offices

  • Purpose: For personalized assistance, you can visit your local Regional Transport Office (RTO) or District Transport Office (DTO).
  • How to Find:
    • Use the office locator on the MoRTH website to find the nearest transport office.
    • Contact details, including phone numbers and addresses, are often listed on the website or can be obtained by calling the RTO.

3. Helpline Numbers

  • Purpose: Helpline numbers are available for direct assistance and queries related to IDP applications.
  • How to Access:
    • Check the MoRTH website for specific helpline numbers related to IDP services.
    • You can also inquire at your local RTO for regional helpline numbers.

4. Email Support

  • Purpose: Email support can be used to ask questions or seek help if you encounter issues with your IDP application.
  • How to Find:
    • Look for official email addresses on the MoRTH website or contact your local RTO for their email support.

5. Customer Service Desks

  • Purpose: Customer service desks at RTOs or DTOs provide in-person assistance and can help resolve issues or answer questions about your IDP application.
  • How to Access:
    • Visit the nearest RTO or DTO and inquire at the customer service desk.

6. Social Media Channels

  • Purpose: Social media channels of MoRTH or local transport departments may provide updates, announcements, and general assistance.
  • How to Access:
    • Follow MoRTH’s official social media profiles on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn for updates and information.

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