Pune: Demand for International Driving Permits Rises in Pune as More Residents Opt for Self-Drive Travel Abroad
Driver
Pune, 20th April 2026: A growing number of Pune residents are choosing to drive on their own while travelling overseas, leading to a rise in demand for International Driving Permits (IDPs), according to Regional Transport Office (RTO) data.
The Pune RTO issued 5,558 International Driving Permits during the financial year 2025-26, around 250 more than the previous year.
Officials said Pune has a large number of residents travelling abroad for jobs, education and tourism, which has steadily increased the need for permits required to drive in foreign countries.
Indian citizens planning to drive abroad must obtain an IDP from their local RTO. Before 2018, the process was entirely manual and often time-consuming. However, the system was shifted online in 2018 to make the process faster and more convenient.
Applicants now need to apply through the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ Sarathi portal and upload the required documents. Those holding a valid Indian driving licence are not required to undergo a fresh driving test.
However, the applicant’s driving licence, passport and visa are verified before approval. After completing the online process, applicants must visit the RTO office with original documents for final verification. Once the procedure is completed, the permit is usually issued within a day.
The International Driving Permit is recognised in several countries that have agreements with India, including the United States, Germany, New Zealand and South Africa.
Officials said the permit is valid for all vehicles except heavy vehicles and remains valid for one year. In some countries, it can also be used as an identity document.
Transport officials said the steady rise in applications reflects changing travel preferences, with more Pune residents preferring self-drive holidays and road travel abroad.
