Driving Licence: Big Update! Now you can drive in these 10 countries with Indian driving licence, see list

Good news for Indian drivers! The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has announced that Indian driving licences are now valid in 10 countries. This means that you can now drive in these countries without having to obtain an international driving permit (IDP).

The 10 countries where you can drive with an Indian driving licence are:

1. United States of America

2. Australia

3. Canada

4. United Kingdom

5. New Zealand

6. Switzerland

7. Germany

8. France

9. South Africa

10. Sweden

Validity of Indian driving license in each country:

1. United States of America: Indian driving licences are valid in the United States for up to one year.
2. Australia:Indian driving licences are valid in Australia for up to three months in certain states, including New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, the Australian Capital Territory, and the Northern Territory.
3. Canada: Indian driving licences are valid in Canada for up to three months.
4. United Kingdom: Indian driving licences are valid in the United Kingdom for up to one year.
5. New Zealand: just like America and United Kingdom Indian driving licences are valid in New Zealand for up to one year.
6. Switzerland: Indian driving licences are valid in Switzerland for up to one year.
7. Germany: Indian driving licences are valid in Germany for up to six months.
8. France: Indian driving licences are valid in France for up to one year.
9. South Africa: Indian driving are valid in South Africa for up to one year.
10. Sweden: Indian driving licences are valid in Sweden for up to one year.

While driving abroad you should Keep following things in mind – 

• The validity of an Indian driving licence in a foreign country may be subject to certain conditions, such as the type of vehicle you are driving and your driving experience.
• It is always advisable to check with the local authorities in the country you are visiting for the latest information on the validity of Indian driving licences.
• You must carry your original Indian driving license with you at all times.
• You may be required to show your Indian driving license to police officers or rental car companies.
• You should be familiar with the traffic rules and regulations of the country you are visiting.
• You should drive safely and responsibly.
• Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage for your rental vehicle or personal car while driving in a foreign country.
• The validity period of your Indian driving license varies by country. Check the specific duration for each country before planning your trip.

How to Get an International Driving Permit

If you want to drive in a country that is not on the list above, you will need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is a translation of your Indian driving license into English. It is valid for one year. To get an IDP, you will need to apply to the Automobile Association of India (AAI).

Conclusion:

This is great news for Indian drivers who are planning to visit these countries. With an Indian driving licence, you can now explore these countries at your own pace and enjoy the freedom of the open road. However, it is important to remember to drive safely and responsibly and to follow the traffic rules and regulations of the country you are visiting.