An International Driving Permit (IDP)—commonly referred to as an International Driving License—is an official legal document issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. Issued directly by the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Department across Mumbai RTOs, an IDP authorizes Indian passport holders to legally rent and drive motor vehicles in over 150 countries worldwide.
Whether you are traveling overseas for a holiday, business trip, or extended stay, this guide details the eligibility requirements, online Parivahan application steps, Maharashtra RTO fees, required forms, and doorstep assistance options via Itzeazy.
Key Overview: Validity, Fees & Scope in Maharashtra
| Feature | Details |
| Government Application Fee | ₹1,000 (Payable online on Parivahan Portal) |
| Validity Period | 1 Year from issue date (or until Indian DL expiry, whichever is earlier) |
| Processing Time | 2 to 5 Working Days |
| Jurisdiction | Must be applied at the specific Mumbai RTO where your Indian DL was issued |
| Physical RTO Visit | Optional (Can be managed 100% online or through doorstep assistance) |
Eligibility Criteria for Mumbai Applicants
To apply for an International Driving Permit in Mumbai, you must meet the following conditions:
- Active Permanent Driving License: You must hold a valid, non-expired Indian Driving License issued by a Maharashtra RTO (e.g., MH-01 to MH-48). (Learner’s Licenses are strictly ineligible).
- Matching Address Records: The residential address listed on your Driving License must match or be officially aligned with your current Passport records.
- Confirmed Foreign Travel: You must possess a valid Passport, verified Visa (or e-Visa approval letter), and confirmed round-trip air tickets.
Documents Required Checklist
Keep clear scanned copies (PDF or JPEG format under 200 KB) ready before filling out the online Parivahan application:
- Form 4-A: Application for International Driving Permit (auto-generated on Parivahan).
- Form 1-A: Medical Certificate signed and stamped by a registered Medical Practitioner (MBBS doctor).
- Original Indian Driving License (Issued by a Maharashtra RTO).
- Valid Indian Passport (First page, last page, and address pages).
- Valid Visa or e-Visa Approval Letter for your destination country.
- Confirmed Air Ticket / Flight Itinerary.
- Recent Passport-Size Photographs (White background).
How to Apply for an International Driving Permit in Mumbai
You can complete the application process independently via the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways portal or opt for doorstep execution through Itzeazy.
Method 1: Self-Application via Parivahan Sewa Portal
1.Access Parivahan Portal & Select State:Prerequisite: Keep DL number and registered mobile number active.
- Visit the official Parivahan Sewa Portal.
- Navigate to Online Services > Driving License Related Services.
- Select Maharashtra from the state dropdown menu.
- Click on Apply for International Driving Permit (IDP) and click Continue.
2.Enter License Details & Vehicle Categories:
- Enter your Indian Driving License Number and Date of Birth.
- Confirm your personal credentials and select your specific Mumbai RTO code (e.g., MH-01 Tardeo or MH-02 Andheri).
- Select the vehicle class for international endorsement (e.g., LMV for cars, MCWG for motorcycles). Note that you can only request categories already present on your native Indian DL.
3.Upload Scanned Documents & Form 1-A:
- Upload clear scans of your Passport, Visa, Flight Tickets, and Indian DL.
- Upload the signed Form 1-A Medical Certificate stamped by a qualified MBBS doctor.
- Upload your passport photo and specimen signature.
4.Pay Fee & Track RTO Approval:
- Pay the mandatory Maharashtra government fee of ₹1,000 online.
- Download and print the Payment Receipt and Application Form.
- Once scrutinized and approved by the Mumbai Motor Vehicle Inspector (MVI), your physical IDP booklet or sheet will be dispatched via Speed Post to your registered address.
Method 2: Doorstep & Fast-Track Assistance via Itzeazy
100% online & hassle-free application support. Our experts handle Form 1-A medical assistance, error-free Parivahan filing, document verification, and fast-track RTO approval before your travel date.
Get Urgent International Permit Support
Recognized Vehicle Categories Under 1949 Geneva Convention
Your IDP will explicitly mirror the vehicle categories authorized on your Indian Driving License:
| IDP Category | Vehicle Description | Equivalent Indian DL Category |
| Category A | Motorcycles (with or without sidecar) and tricycles | MCWG / MCOGW |
| Category B | Passenger cars / Light Motor Vehicles (Max 8 seats, weight ≤ 3,500 kg) | LMV |
| Category C | Goods vehicles with maximum weight exceeding 3,500 kg | HGV / TRANS |
| Category D | Passenger transport vehicles with more than 8 seats | TRANS / BUS |
| Category E | Heavy articulated vehicles or combinations with trailers | Heavy Combination |
List of RTO Offices in Mumbai Metropolitan Jurisdiction
Applications must be submitted strictly to the RTO jurisdiction where your Indian Driving License was issued:
| RTO Code | RTO Office Location | Key Areas Covered |
| MH-01 | Mumbai Central (Tardeo) | South Mumbai, Colaba, Dadar, Worli, Byculla |
| MH-02 | Mumbai West (Andheri) | Bandra, Andheri, Juhu, Vile Parle, Jogeshwari |
| MH-03 | Mumbai East (Wadala) | Kurla, Ghatkopar, Chembur, Mulund, Powai |
| MH-47 | Mumbai North (Borivali) | Malad, Kandivali, Borivali, Dahisar |
| MH-04 | Thane RTO | Thane City, Kalwa, Mumbra |
| MH-05 | Kalyan RTO | Kalyan, Dombivli, Ulhasnagar |
| MH-43 | Navi Mumbai (Vashi) | Vashi, Nerul, Belapur, Airoli |
| MH-46 | Panvel RTO | Panvel, Kharghar, Kamothe |
| MH-48 | Vasai / Palghar | Mira Road, Bhayandar, Vasai, Virar |
Benefits of an Indian International Driving Permit
An Indian International Driving Permit (IDP) offers a range of benefits to Indian citizens who wish to drive while traveling abroad. Here’s a detailed look at the advantages:
1. Legally Drive Abroad
An Indian IDP allows you to legally drive in many foreign countries that are signatories to the 1949 Geneva Convention and the 1968 Vienna Convention. It acts as a legal authorization to operate vehicles outside India for a limited time.
2. Accepted by Car Rental Agencies
Many international car rental companies require an International Driving Permit along with a valid Indian driving licence. Without it, renting a car in countries like the USA, UAE, or many European nations might not be possible.
3. Multilingual Document
The IDP includes translations of your Indian driving licence into several major international languages such as English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Russian, and Chinese. This helps authorities in foreign countries understand your licence more easily.
4. Avoids Legal Penalties
In countries where carrying an IDP is mandatory for foreign drivers, not having one can lead to fines, legal issues, or even being barred from driving.
5. Temporary Solution for Long-Term Stays
If you’re moving abroad for work, education, or an extended stay, the IDP can serve as a temporary driving permit until you obtain a local driving licence.
6. Recognition in Emergencies
In case of accidents or traffic violations, the IDP provides a standardized, internationally recognized document that helps law enforcement or emergency personnel quickly verify your driving credentials.
7. Simplified Application and Renewal
India has made it easier to obtain and renew the IDP, including provisions for renewal from abroad. This adds convenience for Indians who are already overseas.
8. Identification Purposes
Besides being a driving document, the IDP can also serve as an additional form of identification while traveling internationally.
Countries where you can not drive with an Indian diving licence
There are countries where you can not drive with Indian driving license. Therefore, Indians have to get International driving license to drive vehicles in foreign countries. Following are the countries where an Indian driving license is not valid :
- UAE
- Thailand
- Qatar
- Singapore
- Iran
- Japan
- Norway (Indian driving license valid up to 3 months)
- Germany (Indian driving license valid up to 6 months)
- Canada (Indian driving license valid up to 3 months)
- Switzerland (Indian driving license valid up to 12 months)
- Sweden (Indian driving license valid up to 12 months)
Before traveling these countries, you can get an international driving license in Mumbai if your driving license is issued from RTO Mumbai.
Indian driving Licence Valid in Which Countries
International Driving License Delhi
Apply for International driving license
How can I get an International Driving Permit in Mumbai ?
You can apply for international driving permit in Mumbai with Itzeazy from the convenience of your home. Just share soft copy of the documents required for international driving permit in Mumbai. Make payment and relax. You will get international driving licence in Mumbai within 2-3 days time.
How long does it take to get an international driving license in Mumbai ?
It takes approx. 1 week time in getting an international driving license in Mumbai. However, actual time may vary from RTO to RTO.
What is the validity of international driving license in Mumbai ?
The validity of international driving license in Mumbai is 1 year. In case validity of driving licence is less than 1 year, validity of international driving permit will be till the validity of driving licence.
Is it possible to apply for an International driving licence in Mumbai with a Leaning Licence?
No, you can’t apply for an international driving licence in Mumbai with a learning licence. It is mandatory to have a valid driving licence issued from Mumbai to apply for an international driving licence in Mumbai.
Can I use my International driving licence as an identity proof in foreign countries?
No, International driving licence can not be used as Identity proof in foreign countries. The only document which is considered identity proof in foreign country is your passport.
Is IDP valid in Dubai?
You can not drive vehicle in Dubai with Indian driving licence only. You also need international driving permit. It is a legal requirement for Indians to have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) in order to rent a car and legally drive in Dubai or in United Arab Emirates.
Can I drive in Thailand with Indian driving licence ?
No, you can’t drive in Thailand with an Indian driving license. You need an international driving permit (IDP) or a Thai driver’s license to drive in Thailand.
My International driving licence was issued from Mumbai and its expiring in this month. I am currently in Japan. Can I renew my driving licence online ?
No, physical presence of the applicant is mandatory to renew international driving licence in Mumbai.
Do we need to visit RTO for IDP in Mumbai ?
Yes, visit to RTO is required to apply for international driving permit in Ghaziabad.
What documents are required for an International Driving License?
Following are the documents required to apply for International driving license :
- Driving License
- Valid passport
- Valid Visa
- Travel ticket
Does an IDP ensure I can drive in all countries?
No. While the International driving permit issued by India is recognized in over 150 countries that are signatories to the UN Conventions of 1968, you should check the specific driving laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries may require a local driving license immediately.
Is a confirmed air ticket/travel proof necessary for the IDP application?
Yes, confirmed air ticket/travel proof is mandatory to apply for IDP in India. Its necessary supporting document to prove that you are actually travelling to a foreign country.
Why did my RTO issue an A4 sheet IDP instead of a booklet, and will it be rejected abroad ?
RTOs in Mumbai issue IDP on standard A4 sheet these days. Most of the countries accept this format . There are countries like Japan, South Korea, Thailand where booklet IDP is required. You may contact Itzeazy to get booklet IDP.
My application status says 'Printing' or 'Scrutiny' for weeks. What do I do if my flight is in 3 days ?
If your IDP status says ‘printing’ or ‘scrutiny’ for weeks , and flight is in 3 days then dont wait and visit RTO to get it processed. Many time online process for IDP in Mumbai takes longer than expected time or there may be some objection. By visting RTO you will get to know the exact problem. If you have paucity of time Itzeazy may help you in this scenario.
My DL has an old address, but my Passport has my current Mumbai address. What happens ?
Address on DL and passport should be same to apply for IDP. So, in this scenario first you need to change address on DL. Once address on driving licence is updated you can apply for IDP.
Where do I find an MBBS doctor in Mumbai to sign my medical certificate ?
You can visit your nearby RTO. Around RTO premises you will find MBBS doctors who can provide you medical certificate for nominal charge. Alternatively you can contact Itzeazy. It will arrange medical certificate for you.
Can I apply for a Mumbai IDP if I am already outside India?
Yes, its possible to apply for Mumbai IDP even if you are outside India. Itzeazy can get your International driving permit done at RTO. Just you need to share soft copy of the documents. You may contact the team to know the complete procedure.
My DL was issued at another Maharashtra RTO (or another state), but I live in Mumbai. Can I apply for IDP here?
Yes, you can apply for IDP in Mumbai but first you will have to change address on your driving licence. so, it will be 2 stage process :
- Change of address on driving licence
- Application for IDP
Can I apply for an IDP if I only have a Visa on Arrival or an e-Visa approval letter?
Yes, you can apply for IDP even if you have an e-visa approval letter or the visiting country has visa on arrival. But it should be supported by flight tickets.
Does the IDP cover two-wheelers if I only have a Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) license?
No, IDP is issued only for the class of vehicle which is endorsed in your driving licence. If you have only four wheeler driving licence you will get IDP for four wheeler.
Flying Abroad Soon from Mumbai? Don’t Let RTO Delays Cancel Your Road Trip!
Skip long queues and paperwork rejections. ItzEazy provides doorstep & fast-track IDP processing across all Mumbai RTOs (Tardeo, Andheri, Wadala, Borivali).
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am lost my licences how to get the other one