11 International Driving Permit Rules Indians Must Know

11. Fees, processing times and common mistakes to avoid

Typical IDP fees and processing times vary by issuing office; expect a small fee and several days to a few weeks for standard processing. Avoid common mistakes: applying with an expired Indian licence, failing to confirm vehicle class coverage, or assuming an IDP replaces insurance or a passport. Before you travel, run through a simple checklist—valid Indian licence, passport and visa, IDP, insurance, and copies—and pack those items together. A last-minute tip from many travellers: check expiry dates carefully. Even a licence with one month left may not be accepted by some rental firms. Booking an appointment at the RTO well before travel or using an authorised automobile association can reduce surprises. Treat the IDP as one essential in your travel tiffin—everything else fits around it, but you don’t want it left behind at the station.