How to Change Your Address and Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Bharat (India)

Traveling abroad? Here’s a guide on how to update your driving address and obtain an international driving permit (IDP) in Bharat (India). This comprehensive guide ensures you have all the necessary documents and follow the right procedures to navigate the system efficiently and successfully.

Why an International Driving Permit (IDP) is Needed

When you plan to drive in a foreign country, particularly in countries that require an IDP, it's crucial to have one. An IDP, issued by your local authorities, allows you to drive in many countries without needing to re-acquire a foreign license. The Indian Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) enables its citizens to obtain an IDP, provided that certain conditions are met.

What You Need to Ensure Matched Addresses

Before applying for an IDP, it’s essential that the address mentioned in your driving license matches the detailed address in your passport. This address is also where your visa, usually issued by the relevant embassies or consulates, will correspond to, if required. Consistent and accurate address information is critical to the verification process by travel authorities in other countries.

How to Change Your Address in Your Driving License

Changing your address on your driving license is a straightforward process. Here are the steps you should follow:

Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including your current driving license, a proof of address (e.g., utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements), and a recent passport-sized photograph. Visit RTO: Make an appointment at the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO) in your jurisdiction. Some RTOs may require an online appointment, so check their website for details. Submit Application: Fill out the application form for altering address details. Ensure to provide all required information accurately. Review and Payments: Review the application, and if correct, submit it along with the required fee. The fee varies by state and can be found on the official RTO website. Processing Time: Processing time can range from a few days to a couple of weeks. Check with the RTO to get the estimated time. Collection of New License: Once your application is processed and approved, visit the RTO to collect your updated driving license.

How to Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Once your address is changed in the driving license, you can proceed to obtain an IDP. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Visit RTO: Visit the nearest RTO in your jurisdiction. The RTO will issue an IDP if your address matches the information in your driving license and passport. Submit Application: Fill out the application form for the IDP. Ensure all the details are correct and complete. Documentation: Provide your driving license, updated address details (as verified by RTO), and a recent passport-sized photograph, along with the required fee. Processing and Issuance: After submitting the application and fee, your IDP will be processed and issued. The processing time can vary, but it’s usually quick. Traveling Documents: Make sure to carry your passport, driving license (with updated address), and the IDP when traveling abroad.

Conclusion

Updating your driving address and obtaining an IDP in Bharat can be a seamless process if you follow the guidelines provided here. Ensure that all your documents are verified and up-to-date before you travel. By taking the necessary steps in advance, you can avoid any delays and ensure a smooth international journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply for an IDP online? While some RTOs now offer online services, it’s advised to check with the specific RTO for online application availability. How much does it cost to change an address on a driving license? The fees vary by state, but it is typically less than INR 1000 (approximately $12-15 USD). How long does it take to get an IDP after changing the address? The processing time can vary, but it's usually within a few weeks.