International driving license
International driving license
Driving yourself around, whether you’re burning up the rubber or
cruising along is a feeling many car enthusiasts long for. While the roads in
your home country are open to you whenever the need to drive so takes hold of
you, those travelling to another country on business or holiday are often
unable to rent a car or drive since they do not have a license that is accepted
in that country.
Those
seeking to drive abroad can apply for an International Driver’s Permit. The international driver's license usa is an official travel document that is authorized by the United Nations issued to tourists travelling to foreign countries. It is
an official translation of your driver’s license issued in your home country.
The document essentially states that you possess a valid driver’s license and
it translates your license documents into a number of languages so authorities
abroad are able to verify and understand your driving credentials.
The
document is printed in a number of different languages- English, French,
Spanish, Chinese and Russian as well as German, Arabic, Italian, Portuguese and
the Scandinavian languages.
This enables authorities in
those countries to understand your driver’s license. This is especially
important in case of any mishap, since it will prove your driving credentials.
An
IDP is generally valid for a period of one year from its issue or till the
driving license expires, whichever is earlier.
How to Apply for an International Driving Licence
Applying
for an international driving licence is now a convenient process thanks to the
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
An individual who wishes to drive in
another country is required to apply for an international driving licence,
which acts as a driving permit in that particular country.
Individuals
can visit the nearest RTO with the required documents and the application fee.
The
licence would be handed over to the individual on processing of the
application, which usually takes 3-4 business days.
Advantages
of International Driving Licence
Applying
for an international driving permit/International DL is a simple process and it
has a number of advantages, which are listed below:
·
It certifies you to drive a vehicle in a foreign country- the
IDP is accepted as proof of your driving capability and the document confirms
you have a valid driver's license in your home country.
·
The IDP is useful if your original driver's license is not in
the language spoken in your country of travel. This makes it easier for
authorities in those countries to verify your information.
·
It can be used as a proof of identity document in the local
language.
·
No additional driving tests- With an IDP, you would not be
required to take any additional driving tests in the countries you are
visiting.
·
Wide acceptance- The IDP is accepted in over 150 countries
across the world who are signatories to the agreement. Certain countries that
are not signatories also accept the IDP as a valid document within their
territories.
·
Certain countries will not allow you to rent a car unless you
have an IDP.
·
Insurance companies require an IDP to cover drivers of vehicles
being driven abroad.
Renewal of International Driving Permit
As per
current Indian laws, an International Driving Licence issued from India is
valid for a period of one year. The licence cannot be renewed.
Note:
If the
individual seeking an IDP/IDL was issued his license within 3 months of his
IDP/IDL application, he will have to take the driving test for a second time.
For
Indian applicants, the form can be found on the official websites of the
Regional Transport Offices.
Only
Indian citizens can apply for an international driver's permit through an
Indian transport authority.
Additionally,
the applicant has to be submit his application form and documentation in person
to the concerned regional transport authority.
The
IDP/IDL will be issued for license that fall under the jurisdiction of the
Regional Transport Authority where the application is made. For those whose
license were issued in other regions or states, they will have to change the
address on their license to their present location.
It
should be noted that there are a number of websites and organisations that
offer International Driver' Permit documents issued online. You should always
verify the claims thee websites make, since there is a chance some of them are
fraudulent. It is always advisable to apply for an IDP/IDL from the official
transport authority or association in your country to avoid hassles later.
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