FOREIGN COUNTRIES ACCEPT INDIAN DRIVING LICENSE

Some countries allow the use of an Indian driving license. Indian citizens are everywhere, from north to south and east to west. They explore new places, adopt foreign cultures, and visit all sorts of sights, from country roads to narrow lanes, mountain roads, and beachside streets.

Knowing where our Indian driving license is accepted makes international travel easier. This article will tell you which countries accept an Indian driving license and for how long.



 

 

List of 12 Foreign Countries Accepting Indian Driving Licenses and Validity Period

1. United States of America (USA)

• Many Indians live in the USA, contributing to its tech industry, academia, and healthcare sectors.
• Most states allow you to drive a rented car with your Indian Driving Licence for up to 1 year, provided it's in English. You also need to carry the I-94 form.

2. Malaysia

• A significant Indian community lives in Malaysia and is involved in various sectors including business and education.
• You can drive if your Indian DL is in English or Malay and verified by the issuing authority or the Indian Embassy in Malaysia. Otherwise, you'll need an International DL.

3. Germany

• The Indian diaspora in Germany is growing, especially in IT, engineering, and academic fields.
• You can drive for 6 months with your Indian DL. You might need a German-translated copy of your DL and carrying an International Driving Permit is recommended.

4. Australia

• Many Indians reside in Australia, contributing to sectors like education, healthcare, and technology.
• In New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, the Australian Capital Region, and the Northern Region, you can drive for 3 months with your Indian Driving Licence if the language is in English.

5. United Kingdom (UK)

• A well-established Indian community thrives in the UK, significantly impacting its cultural and economic landscape.
• You can drive for 1 year with your Indian DL, but only for certain classes of vehicles.

6. New Zealand

• The Indian community in New Zealand is growing, particularly in cities like Auckland and Wellington.
• You can drive for 1 year with your Indian DL if you are at least 21 years old. Your DL should be in English or have an authorized translation.

7. Switzerland

• Indians in Switzerland are primarily engaged in the finance, IT, and hospitality sectors.
• Your Indian DL is valid for 1 year. Ensure it is in English when driving a rented car.

8. South Africa

• The Indian community in South Africa has a long history, contributing to its cultural and economic fabric.
• You can drive with your Indian DL if it is in English and includes your photo and signature. Some rental agencies may require an International Driving License.

9. Sweden

• The Indian population in Sweden is growing, with many involved in technology and research.
• Your DL must be in English, Swedish, German, French, or Norwegian and accompanied by a valid ID. It is valid for 1 year.

10. Singapore

• A significant Indian community in Singapore contributes to its multicultural fabric, especially in business and technology sectors.
• You can drive for 12 months with your Indian DL if you are at least 18 years old. After that, you need a Singapore Driving License. Your DL should be in English or have a translation.

11. Hong Kong

• The Indian community in Hong Kong is active in various sectors including finance, education, and business.
• You can drive for up to 1 year with your Indian DL or an International DL.

12. Spain

• The Indian community in Spain is relatively small but growing, particularly in urban areas.
• You can drive for up to 6 months after registering for residency. Your DL should be in English and accompanied by an accepted ID.

13. Canada

• A large Indian diaspora in Canada is prominent in sectors like technology, healthcare, and education.
• Your Indian DL is valid for 60 days, after which you need a Canadian Driving License.

       14. Finland

• The Indian community in Finland is small but growing, particularly in the tech and academic sectors.
• Your Indian DL is valid for 6 to 12 months, depending on your health insurance.

       15. Bhutan

• Indians have a unique relationship with Bhutan, given the open border and strong cultural ties.
• Indian nationals can drive a four-wheeler or a two-wheeler with their Indian DL. A vehicle permit is required.

       16. France

• The Indian community in France is growing, especially in business, education, and technology.
• Your Indian DL is valid for up to 1 year, but it needs to be translated into French.

       17. Norway

• The Indian community in Norway is small but has a presence in tech and academia.
• You can drive for up to 3 months with your Indian DL. Make sure to check specific requirements before you travel.

       18. Italy

• The Indian community in Italy is small but active, particularly in business and education.
• You can drive for up to 1 year with an Indian DL and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

        19. Mauritius

• A small Indian community is present in Mauritius, involved in various sectors including business and tourism.
• You can drive for one day with your Indian DL as the island is small enough to explore in a day.

         20. Iceland

• The Indian community in Iceland is very small but growing, especially in the tourism and tech sectors.
• You can drive with your Indian DL if it's translated into English. International licenses from the US, Canada, and the EU are also accepted. 

        21. Ireland

• The Indian community in Ireland is growing, particularly in IT, healthcare, and education sectors.
• You can drive for 12 months with your Indian DL. After that, you need an Ireland Driving License.

 

Do you know how to Apply for any International Driving License

If you plan to travel abroad and want to drive, an International Driving License (IDP) is useful.

Visit Your Local RTO

• Go to the nearby Regional Transport Office (RTO).
• Fill Out the Application Form
• Submit Required Documents
• Provide the following documents

1. Valid Indian Driving License
2. Passport-sized photographs
3. Copy of your passport and visa
4. Medical certificate (Form 1A)
5. Proof of Indian citizenship
6. Pay the Fee
7. Pay the application fee at the RTO.
8. Receive Your IDP
9. After processing, you will receive your International Driving Permit within a few days.

Over to you,

Remember, if you're driving a car in the above-mentioned countries or planning to, ensure you have valid Car insurance or Bike Insurance. Applying for an International Driving Permit-IDP allows you to drive legally in many countries worldwide. But having the right vehicle insurance can make your journey freedom and convenient for driving during your travel.

Don't wait until the last minute—visit your local RTO today to apply for your International Driving Permit. And don't forget to check and ensure you have proper insurance coverage for your vehicle.

Safe travels and happy driving!

 

FAQs

Q1. How long is an IDP valid?

Ans: An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue.

Q2. Do I need a permanent Indian Driving License to apply for an IDP?

Ans: Yes, you need a valid permanent Indian Driving License to apply for an IDP.

Q3. What if my IDP is lost or stolen abroad?

Ans: You will need to apply for a replacement at an Indian embassy or consulate in the country you are visiting.

Q4. Can I renew my IDP if it expires while I am abroad?

Ans: No, you must apply for a new IDP in person at an RTO in India.

Q5. Do I need an IDP in countries that accept an Indian Driving License?

Ans: While some countries accept an Indian Driving License, having an IDP can simplify the process and avoid potential issues with local authorities.