Preparing for a trip abroad can be a thrilling experience, but it’s crucial to ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork to avoid any inconvenience during your journey. When it comes to driving in a foreign country, one of the most important documents you need to have is an International Driving License.
If you reside in Lahore and plan on driving overseas, it’s essential to understand the process of obtaining an International Driving License to make sure you’re legally covered while driving in a foreign land. Graana.com has prepared a comprehensive guide.
This guide will provide you with all the details on how to obtain your International Driving License, including the necessary documents, application process, and other important considerations.
What is an International Driving License?
An International Driving License (IDL), also known as an International Driving Permit (IDP), is an official document that translates your native driver’s license into several languages, making it easier for authorities in other countries to interpret your driving credentials. It is not a standalone document but complements your existing national driver’s licence.
Countries That Accept IDP
Here is the list of Countries that Accept IDP:
Africa | Asia | Europe | North America | Oceania | South America |
Algeria | Afghanistan | Armenia | Canada | Australia | Argentina |
Angola | Bahrain | Belarus | United States | Fiji | Bolivia |
Benin | Bangladesh | Bosnia | Kiribati | Brazil | |
Botswana | Bhutan | Bulgaria | Chile | ||
Burkina Faso | Brunei | Croatia | Colombia | ||
Cape Verde | Hong Kong | Czech Republic | Ecuador | ||
Central African Republic | India | Estonia | Guyana | ||
Chad | Indonesia | Georgia | Paraguay | ||
Comoros | Iran | Hungary | Peru | ||
Congo (Democratic Republic of) | Iraq | Italy | Suriname | ||
Congo | Israel | Kazakhstan | Venezuela | ||
Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) | Japan | Kosovo | |||
Djibouti | Jordan | Latvia | |||
Equatorial Guinea | Kuwait | Lithuania | |||
Eritrea | Laos | Luxembourg | |||
Ethiopia | Lebanon | Macedonia | |||
Gabon | Macao (Macau) | Malta | |||
Gambia | Malaysia | Moldova | |||
Ghana | Maldives | Montenegro | |||
Guinea | Mongolia | Netherlands | |||
Guinea-Bissau | Myanmar (Burma) | Poland | |||
Kenya | Nepal | Portugal | |||
Lesotho | Oman | Romania | |||
Liberia | Pakistan | Russia | |||
Libya | Palestine | Serbia | |||
Madagascar | Philippines | Slovakia | |||
Malawi | Qatar | Slovenia | |||
Mali | Saudi Arabia | Spain | |||
Mauritania | Singapore | Sweden | |||
Mauritius | Sri Lanka | Switzerland | |||
Morocco | Syria | Turkey | |||
Mozambique | Taiwan | Ukraine | |||
Namibia | Thailand | United Kingdom (UK) | |||
Niger | Timor-Leste | ||||
Nigeria | Turkmenistan | ||||
Rwanda | United Arab Emirates (UAE) | ||||
Sao Tome and Principe | Uzbekistan | ||||
Senegal | Vietnam | ||||
Seychelles | Yemen | ||||
Sierra Leone | |||||
South Africa | |||||
Sudan | |||||
Swaziland | |||||
Tanzania | |||||
Togo | |||||
Uganda | |||||
Zambia | |||||
Zimbabwe |
Driving License Centres in Lahore
Here is the list of Driving License Centres in Lahore:
Test Center | Licence Category | Test Day | Timing |
CTPL Smart Licensing 24/7 Center, Manawan | All categories | 7 days | 24 hours |
Arfa Karim Tower | Car, Motorcycle | Monday to Saturday | 8 am – 6 pm |
Driving License Center, Greater Iqbal Park | Car, Motorcycle | Monday to Saturday | 8 am – 6 pm |
Driving License Center, Bahria Town | Car, Motorcycle | Monday to Saturday | 8 am – 6 pm |
Women Licensing Center, Liberty, Gulberg | Car, Motorcycle | Monday to Saturday | 8 am – 6 pm |
94 K Block, Phase 1, DHA | Car, Motorcycle | Monday to Saturday | 8 am – 6 pm |
Requirements For International Driving License Lahore
Here is the list of required documents for an international driving licence:
- Copy of Your CNIC: Get a copy of your Computerised National Identity Card stamped by a government official.
- Copy of Your Driving Licence: Get a copy of your valid driver’s licence, also stamped by a government official.
- Two Photos: Bring two passport-sized photos of yourself, one showing your front and one showing your back. These also need to be stamped by a government official.
- Copy of Your Passport: Get a copy of your passport, stamped by a government official. Make sure it’s valid for at least 6 more months and has the visa for the country you’re visiting already attached.
Important Things to Remember
Instant Issue: You’ll get your International Driving License on the same day you apply for it.
Bring Originals: Don’t forget to bring your original CNIC, driver’s licence, and passport with you when you apply
International Driving License Lahore Fee
Here are the fee details for the International Driving License;
Court Fee Ticket
This is a small fee of Rs. 66 that goes to the court to cover the legal processing of your application. It’s like a payment for the court’s time and effort in handling your paperwork.
Rs. 450 Bank Challan Fee
This payment needs to be made through a bank challan for processing and administrative charges.
Additional Ticket
This ticket costs Rs. 60, and it covers various administrative fees related to the licensing process. It might include things like processing costs, record-keeping, or other services provided by the licensing authority.
STR Form Fee
The STR Form Fee of Rs. 180 is specifically for the Special Traffic Rules form. You’ll only need to pay this fee after you’ve successfully passed the required driving test. It likely helps fund traffic safety initiatives or related programs.
Turn Around Time
Your International Driving License will be processed and delivered within 5 working days after you submit your application.
Mode of Delivery
You will receive your licence conveniently through courier once it’s ready.
Remember: You’ll need to pay these fees separately at the appropriate stages of the application process.
FAQs
Here are FAQs on Getting an International Driving License in Lahore:
1. What is an International Driving License (IDP)?
An IDP is a translation of your Pakistani driving licence into 12 internationally recognized languages, allowing you to drive legally in many foreign countries.
2. Do I need an IDP to drive abroad?
Not all countries require an IDP, but it’s highly recommended. Check the specific requirements of your destination country to be sure.
3. Where can I get an IDP in Lahore?
You can obtain your IDP at the Traffic Police Headquarters near Liberty Roundabout or at other branches like Gulberg Traffic Police Station.
4. What documents do I need?
- Original Pakistani Driving License (valid)
- Attested copies of your CNIC (National Identity Card)
- 2 recent passport-sized photos
- Medical fitness certificate (if above 50 or applying for a commercial licence)
- Court fee ticket (available at the District Court)
- IDP fee (around Rs. 660)
5. How much does it cost?
The total cost is around Rs. 660, including the IDP fee, court fee, and bank challan fee (if applicable).
6. How long does it take to get my IDP?
The process usually takes 5 working days after submitting your application and paying all fees.
7. Can I apply online?
No, currently, you need to apply in person at the Traffic Police Headquarters or designated branches.
8. Do I need to take a driving test?
No, you don’t need to take any additional driving tests for an IDP.
9. What are the validity periods for an IDP?
IDPs are typically valid for one year, but some countries may accept them for longer.
10. Can I get an IDP for any vehicle type?
Yes, you can get an IDP for cars, motorcycles, or even commercial vehicles, depending on your Pakistani driving licence category.
11. What happens if my IDP expires while I’m abroad?
You can renew your IDP at the Pakistani embassy or consulate in your destination country.
12. Are there any restrictions on using an IDP?
Yes, some countries may have specific restrictions on IDP usage, such as age requirements or vehicle limitations.
13. Can I drive with my Pakistani licence only in some countries?
Yes, some countries accept Pakistani licences for short-term visits without needing an IDP. Check country-specific requirements.
14. What should I do if I lose my IDP abroad?
Contact the nearest Pakistani embassy or consulate for assistance in replacing your lost IDP.
15. Are there any helpful resources for getting an IDP in Lahore?
The Traffic Police website and official social media pages often provide updates and information on the IDP application process.
If you want to know more about the International Driving Licence in Islamabad, follow the Graana blog.