Travelling the world opens up numerous opportunities for adventure and exploration, and the freedom to drive in foreign countries enhances these experiences. Renting a car and hitting the open road offer you greater flexibility at exploring local cultures, cuisine and destinations. Several countries recognise and accept Indian driving licenses, making it easier for Indian tourists and expatriates to drive around, whether you are planning a short vacation or an extended stay. Here is the list of countries that welcome Indian driving licences, opening up a world of possibilities for those eager to explore beyond borders.
1. The USA
Indian tourists and residents in the United States can drive with their Indian driving license for up to one year, depending on the state. The possession of an I-94 form is essential for individuals driving in the US using an Indian license. The I-94 form is a crucial document used by the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to track the arrival and departure of travellers to and from the country.
2. Malaysia
To legally drive on Malaysian roads, your Indian driving license must be in either English or Malay and validated by the issuing authority or the Indian Embassy in Malaysia. Otherwise, you will require an International driving license.
3. Germany
Germany permits Indian driving license for six months. However, it must be in either English or German. In the absence of these languages, translation by police authorities or rental agencies is required.
4. Australia
In Australia, Indian driving licenses are accepted for up to one year in regions such as New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory. However, in Northern Australia, the validity period is limited to three months. It is recommended to carry an international driving permit from India when traveling to Northern Australia. Additionally, it is important to note that cars are driven on the left side of the road in Australia.
5. The UK
Driving rules in the UK and India share similarities, such as driving on the left side of the road, mandatory seat belts, and prohibitions on using hand-held mobile phones while driving. Drivers with a valid Indian driving license are legally permitted to drive in England, Scotland and Wales for up to one year, provided the license is in English.
6. New Zealand
Individuals can use their Indian driving license to drive in New Zealand for up to one year. They must ensure their driving license is in English or accompanied by an authorised translation from the New Zealand Transport Agency.
7. Switzerland
Switzerland, famous for its cheese, chocolate and the Swiss Alps, permits drivers with a valid Indian license to drive legally for one year after entering the country.
8. South Africa
The Indian driving license is valid in this country on the basis of a certificate of validity issued by the consulate. To drive in South Africa, you need to meet two requirements: you must be at least 21 years old, and your driving license must be printed in English.
9. Sweden
In Sweden, you can drive with an Indian license for up to one year. The license must be in English, Norwegian, Swedish, French or German.
10. Singapore
Although Singapore generally requires an International driving license, individuals with a valid Indian driving license in English are permitted to drive in the country for up to one year.
11. Hong Kong (one year)
12. Spain (six months)
13. France (one year)
14. Canada (60 days)
15. Norway (three months)
16. Finland (12 months)
17. France (one year)
18. Bhutan (If you have an Indian driving license, you can drive in Bhutan)
19. Ireland (one year)
21. Iceland (six months)
