How to Use an International Driving Permit (IDP) to Rent a Car in India

Renting a self-driven car in India is one of the most convenient ways to travel around it if you are a foreign national who plans to travel India on your own terms. However, before grabbing the keys, there is one document you must have: an International Driving Permit (IDP).

If you want to rent a car in India using an IDP, this guide covers all you need to know.

What Is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit is a legal translation of your driving licence by your home country into several different languages. It is recognised in over 150 countries under the United Nations Convention on Road Traffic. The IDP is not a replacement for your original driving licence; it can be used in conjunction with it.

Foreign nationals must have a valid IDP to drive on Indian roads as per the Motor Vehicles Act in India. Otherwise, you could be fined, or your car may be towed, or you may even have insurance issues if you're in an accident.

Who Needs an IDP in India?

All visitors to India who want to drive a rented or borrowed vehicle should have a valid IDP. This applies to tourists, business travellers, and foreign nationals who have not yet obtained an Indian driving licence from their existing foreign driving licence.

This requirement is usually waived for citizens of Nepal and Bhutan, as there are bilateral agreements in place with India.

How to Get an IDP Before Travelling to India

Must obtain an IDP from your country of origin prior to travel. The vast majority of countries have an IDP programme from their national motor association or transport authority. Here is a general procedure:

1. Check with your country's official issuing organisation, such as AAA (USA), AA (UK) or ADAC (Germany).
2. Provide your valid driving licence, passport-size photographs and completed application form.
3. Pay the fees as applicable.
4. Get your IDP card (these usually expire after 1 year from issue).

Make sure your IDP is issued under the 1949 or 1968 United Nations Convention on Road Traffic, as both are accepted in India.

Documents You Need to Rent a Car in India as a Foreign National

When you approach a car rental company in India, keep the following documents ready:

• Your home country driving licence.
• Your valid International Driving Permit (IDP)
• A valid visa to the country you are travelling to and your passport.
• Credit or debit card for the security deposit.
• Proof of address (this could include a hotel booking confirmation)

You may also be required to have a copy of your travel insurance or return ticket for some rental companies.

Things to Keep in Mind While Driving in India

Driving around India is a great experience, but it is best to be prepared for the roads in India.

• India follows left-hand traffic, similar to the UK and Australia.
• While travelling in the major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, you may encounter heavy traffic, which can be unpredictable.
• Highways are largely well-maintained, and rural roads can range from good to very poor.
• Speed limits are enforced through cameras on national highways.
• Keep hard copies of all documentation in the car.

It is also a good idea to familiarise yourself with local traffic signs and rules before setting out.

Renting a Self-Drive Car in India

With your documents sorted out, it's easy to locate a reliable self-drive rental deal. Services such as Rentrip provide self-drive car rentals in various cities of India, catering to city trips as well as road trips of a longer duration. Please ensure that the platform is aware that you are a foreign national who has an IDP status when booking to ensure that they can advise you on any further verification process that may be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in India with just my foreign driving licence? No. A foreign driving licence alone is not sufficient. You must carry both your original licence and a valid IDP.

Can I use my IDP for the whole period of my stay in India? An IDP will be valid for 1 year from the date of issue. For longer stays, you would have to renew your visa or obtain an Indian driving licence from the local Regional Transport Office (RTO).

What would happen if I went without an IDP in India? It is an offence under the Motor Vehicles Act not to have a valid IDP. A fine could be imposed, and the insurance for your rental car may be cancelled in the event of an accident.

Can I rent a car at the airport in India with an IDP? Yes, many car rental services operate at major airports in India and accept IDPs. It is advisable to book in advance and confirm the documentation requirements with your chosen provider.

Final Thoughts

By road, you can take your time and explore Indian roads for yourself, from the mountain roads in Himachal Pradesh to the coastal roads in Kerala. Having your IDP well sorted before you travel means no legal problems once you get there.

Check your IDP is valid, bring all the necessary paperwork with you at all times, and you're on your way to a great and memorable road trip through India.