Countries which allow Indians to drive cars with a valid Indian driving licence

While some countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP), here is a list of countries that allow Indian drivers to operate vehicles with an Indian driving licence.

By: Express Web Desk

Updated: February 27, 2024 01:05 PM IST

4 min read

While some countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP), here is a list of countries that allow Indian drivers to operate vehicles with an Indian driving licence. (Source: Canva Pro)

Travelling to a new country is an endeavour that nearly everyone looks forward to. While road trips are one of the most popular ways to explore a new country, enjoy the roads, and get experience driving in a different nation, most of us have to stick with public transport or take a taxi or cab to explore new places in the country.

Did you know that a host of countries allow Indians to drive cars on their roads with a valid Indian driving licence, even without an international driving permit from India?

An Indian driving licence is recognised in several countries, allowing Indian citizens to drive abroad without the need for an International Driving Permit (IDP), though the validity of an Indian driving licence and the specific requirements can vary from country to country.

While some countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP), others allow Indian drivers to operate vehicles with their native permits alone.

Here’s a list of some countries where an Indian driving licence is valid.

1. United States of America (USA):

Most states in the USA allow Indian drivers to operate rented cars with their Indian driving licences for up to one year. The licence must be valid and in English, and you must carry the I-94 form, which contains the date of entry into the USA.

2. Malaysia:

To drive on Malaysian roads, your Indian driving licence should be in English or Malay and vetted by the issuing authority or the Indian Embassy in Malaysia. If not, you will need an international driving licence.

3. Germany:

Indian drivers can operate vehicles in Germany for up to six months with their Indian driving licenses. However, it is advisable to carry a German-translated copy of your licence and an international driving permit.

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4. Australia:

Indian driving licences are valid for up to three months in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, the Australian Capital Region, and the Northern Region. The licence must be in English and not in any Indian vernacular language.

5. United Kingdom:

Indian driving licences are valid for up to one year in England, Wales, and Scotland. However, the UK allows drivers with Indian driving licences to operate only certain classes of vehicles.

6. New Zealand:

Indian driving licences are valid for up to one year in New Zealand, but you must be 21 years old to drive a car. The licence must be in English or a translated copy authorised by the New Zealand Transport Agency.

7. Switzerland:

Indian driving licences are valid for up to one year in Switzerland, but they must be in English when driving a rented car.

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8. South Africa:

Indian driving licences are valid in South Africa if they are in English and have a photograph and signature.

9. Sweden:

Indian driving licences are valid for up to one year in Sweden if they are in English, Swedish, German, French, or Norwegian and accompanied by a valid or accepted ID.

10. Singapore:

Indian driving licences are valid for up to 12 months in Singapore, but you must be 18 years old to drive. The licence must be in English, or you must get it translated.

11. Hong Kong:

Indian driving licences are valid for up to one year in Hong Kong, and an international driving licence is also accepted.

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12. Spain:

Indian driving licences are valid for up to six months in Spain after registering for residency. The licence must be in English and accompanied by an accepted ID proof.