How to get international driving license in India | Can foreigners drive in India?
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 24 Jul, 2023
- |
If you are traveling to India, one of the key things you will require for a smooth and comfortable holiday is a valid international driving license. Whether you are a foreign national or an Indian resident, here is a comprehensive guide to help you with the procedure of applying for an international driving license in India, and get you up to speed on the driving regulations for foreigners in the country.
If you’re planning a roadtrip to India and intend to drive, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your Driver’s License from home. An IDP is a legal document that is recognized in many countries outside of India and allows you to drive legally while abroad.
Here’s how to get an IDP in India:
1. Get the IDP Form from your home country.
You will need to fill in the IDP application form and get it signed and stamped from the Automobile Association or Automobile Association that belongs to your home country.
2. Submit the form to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in India.
Your form, with the stamps and signatures from the Automobile Association has to be submitted to the RTO of the city you’re visiting. The details of the respective RTO offices can be found on the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways website.
3. Provide Proof of Identity and Address
You will also need to provide proof of identity and your address in India. This could be in form of a Voter ID, passport, driver’s license, Aadhaar Card, or any other valid documents that proves your identity in India.
4. Make the Payment
Finally, you need to make payment for the application. The cost of the IDP in India is – INR 500/- for one month, INR 800/- for two months, INR 1000/- for three months, and INR 1200/- for one year. You can pay this amount at the RTO office in India.
5. Collect the International Driving License
Once the application is processed and payment is made, you will get your IDP in India. The document is usually valid for a year and can be used for driving in foreign countries.
Can foreigners/Tourist drive in India?
Yes, foreigners and tourists can drive in India, but only with an International Driving Permit (IDP ), valid for at least six months from the date of issue, which must be accompanied by the individual’s valid home country driver’s license. Additionally, foreign drivers must also obtain a temporary Indian driver’s license.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Tourist driving license in India
Q1. What is a Tourist driving license for India?
A1. A Tourist Driving License (TDL) is a short-term license issued by the Road Transport Authority of India to foreign nationals and resident Indians who are staying in the country for a short period and want to rent/drive a car.
Q2. How can I apply for a Tourist Driving License?
A2. You can apply for a Tourist Driving License at a local Regional Transport Office (RTO). To apply, you must complete the necessary forms, submit all the required documents (including the No Objection Certificate from your Embassy/Missions/High Commission, passport, proof of address, etc.) and pay the applicable fees.
Q3. What is the validity of a Tourist Driving License?
A3. A Tourist Driving License is valid for a period of six months (180 days) from the date of issuance.
Q4. Do I need to take a driving test to obtain a Tourist Driving License?
A4. Generally, you do not need to take a driving test to obtain a Tourist Driving License. However, if the RTO suspects that an applicant is not competent enough to drive, they may request an evaluation on the spot.
Q5. Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for Tourist Driving License in India?
A5. While it is not mandatory, having an IDP can be very helpful while applying for a Tourist Driving License in India as it is an additional form of identification.
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