Rise in International Driving Permits (IDPs) in Pune, While Local Driving License Applications Decline
Pune, 27th December 2023: Official figures released on Tuesday reveal a notable 21% increase in the issuance of International Driving Permits (IDPs) under the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Pune for the year 2023 compared to the previous year. In contrast, the number of individuals applying for driving licenses locally has seen a decline from the previous year’s figures.
The data indicates that in 2023 (until December 25), Pune issued 4,914 IDPs, a significant rise from the 4,090 IDPs issued in 2022. On the other hand, driving license issuance witnessed a decrease, with 1,29,693 permanent licenses issued in 2023 compared to 1,46,081 in the previous year.
Commenting on the surge in IDP registrations, Sanjiv Bhor, Pune’s regional transport officer, attributed the trend to the desire of individuals traveling abroad to drive themselves, emphasizing cost savings and the exploration of uncharted destinations. Bhor noted that many students heading abroad for studies have also opted for IDPs, signaling an overall increase in international travel.
An IDP, valid for one year and non-renewable, is not applicable within the local jurisdiction of the RTO. To obtain an IDP, applicants must possess a valid driving license, an Indian passport, and a valid visa for the country they intend to visit.
Bhor acknowledged the likelihood of a 5% decrease in the issuance of permanent driving licenses in 2023 compared to 2022. While he couldn’t identify a specific reason for the decline, he noted that there are still a few days left in the year, and the numbers may see some change.
Another official suggested that the stricter testing process for driving license issuance could be a contributing factor to the decline. Stringent measures are now in place, particularly during the final test, making it essential for applicants to perform flawlessly to pass.
As the year concludes, the RTO will continue monitoring these trends, recognizing the evolving patterns in transportation documentation.
