Overview
Driving is a major part of many people’s daily lives in Pakistan. Citizens of Pakistan can now obtain an International Driving License (IDL) in Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Baluchistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu, and Kashmir.
An IDL allows you to legally drive automobiles anywhere around the world without having to apply for a new license in each nation. This blog article will walk you through the application procedure for an International Driving License in Pakistan.
What is an International Driving License (IDL)?
An International Driving License (IDL) is a government-issued special license that permits the bearer to drive in international nations without having to take additional tests or get separate licenses for each country. It is sometimes referred to as an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). An IDL is valid for one year from the day it is issued and must be accompanied by the driver’s original domestic driver’s license.
An IDL is very vital for Pakistani visitors who will need it while visiting Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, or any other country that requires an IDP for Pakistani visitors. It is also necessary for legal driving in Pakistan’s provinces of Islamabad, Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber-Pakhtoon-Khwa.
Why do you need an IDL?
An International Driving License (IDL) is a government-issued document that permits you to legally drive in other nations. If you intend to drive in another nation, you must obtain an IDL, as it is frequently required by law. Furthermore, if you want to hire a car while overseas, many used cars may need an IDL.
Having an IDL is especially advantageous for tourists and business travelers who are visiting a foreign nation for a limited time. The IDL validates your driving skills in the host nation, allowing you to drive without having to retake a driver’s exam or re-learn the local driving regulations.
It also serves as a kind of identification in nations where other types of identification are not accepted. Finally, certain nations may demand an IDL in order to process a visa. In summary, an IDL is an important tool for international travelers and should be considered before embarking on any foreign journey.
How to apply for an IDL in Pakistan
The procedure for obtaining an International Driving License (IDL) in Pakistan may be difficult. Depending on your province of residency, you may be obliged to meet various criteria. The following is a breakdown of the application process in each of Pakistan’s four provinces:
- Punjab,
- Sindh,
- Khyber-Pakhtoon-Khwa,
- Baluchistan
Punjab
If you want to acquire an International Driving License in Pakistan, Punjab is a good location to start. Punjab has some of the most complete regulations for getting an IDL, making it a popular alternative for individuals searching for a simple and straightforward process.
Applicants in Punjab must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving license from their native country. The application process for an IDL in Punjab is quite simple and can normally be finished in a single day.
Applicants must go to their local traffic police station, fill out an application form, attach all needed papers, and pay the applicable price. Verify your application, the Punjab Traffic Police will evaluate the paperwork and issue the IDL.
It is crucial to remember that obtaining an IDL in Punjab does not allow you to drive on Pakistani roadways since only Pakistani nationals or residents are permitted to do so. However, obtaining an IDL in Punjab is quite beneficial if you plan on driving to other nations.
Islamabad
Obtaining an International Driving License (IDL) in Islamabad is pretty simple. All you have to do is go to the Islamabad traffic police office and apply for the license. The procedure is quick, and you should receive your IDL in a couple of hours. The documents you’ll need for the application include:
1. Copy of valid National ID card or passport.
2. Original driving license.
3. Two recent passport-sized photos.
4. A valid medical fitness certificate from a registered doctor.
Fill out the application form and send it together with the relevant documentation once you have all of your paperwork in order. Then, you must wait for the traffic police station to complete your application and issue the IDL.
It is vital to know that you must be at least 21 years old to apply for the IDL in Islamabad. Furthermore, once issued, the license is only good for one year.
You can drive lawfully in any country that has signed the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic with your International Driving License. So, if you’re going overseas, don’t forget to acquire your IDL before leaving.
Sindh
Sindh residents interested in getting an International Driving License (IDL) should go to their closest Motor Registration Authority (MRA). In order to apply for an IDL in Sindh, you must first have a valid Pakistani driving license as well as your original Pakistani National Identity Card (NIC).
You must also give a passport-sized picture. The Sindh MRA office will demand confirmation of residency as well as a copy of your current driving license. Following the submission of all relevant papers.
After all of your evidence has been confirmed, you will be awarded an IDL that is good for one year. The IDL is valid in every country that has ratified the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. You should, however, verify with local authorities to ensure that you may lawfully drive in their nation with an IDL.
It is crucial to note that you must still follow all relevant traffic laws and local traffic rules in the nation where you are traveling. When driving in any country, you must always carry both your original Pakistani driving license and your International Driving License.
Khyber-Pakhtoon-Khwa
In Khyber-Pakhtoon-Khwa, applying for an International Driving License (IDL) is a reasonably straightforward process. The application form must be submitted to the Excise and Taxation Office. Applicants must submit valid identity papers such as a National Identity Card, passport, or driver’s license.
Following the submission of all needed documents, the candidate will be required to take a driving test. After passing the exam, the candidate will obtain their IDL and be permitted to drive in other nations.
Applicants must also send two passport-sized pictures and pay the relevant cost in addition to the application form. Fees vary by district, therefore for the most up-to-date information, contact the local Excise and Taxation Office.
Baluchistan
You may apply for an International Driving License (IDL) in Baluchistan at the Regional Excise and Taxation Office. A valid Pakistani driving license, two current passport-size pictures, and evidence of domicile in Baluchistan are required.
The IDL is valid for one year in Baluchistan and can be renewed by submitting a renewal application and the money before the expiry date. If your IDL has expired, you must apply for a new one.
If you want to drive in Baluchistan, keep in mind that the rules and regulations may differ from place to location. Before you begin driving, make sure you are familiar with the local rules and regulations.
The International Driving License in Baluchistan allows you to drive in many nations across the world with no additional paperwork or applications. You will have a more convenient, stress-free, and hassle-free travel experience with an IDL.
Azad Jammu & Kashmir
Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) is a Pakistani territory. It is located in the country’s northwest region, bordering the Pakistani provinces of Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The process for candidates seeking an international driving license (IDL) in Azad Jammu and Kashmir is the same as it is in other parts of Pakistan.
Applicants must submit documentation such as valid ID cards, evidence of residency, CNIC/NICOP, and passport-size pictures. The international driving license application form must be completed and submit to the regional authorities. Applicants will next be needed to take a driving test, which will involve an eye exam, a physical examination, and a practical driving test.
After passing all of these examinations, the applicant must pay the IDL fee and wait for it to be granted. Applicants should also keep in mind that their IDL will need to be renewed on an annual basis.
Furthermore, applicants should be aware that the IDL issued in AJK may not be valid in some countries. Before traveling, it is advisable to verify with the local authorities in each nation to confirm that their IDL is approved.
The benefits of having an IDL
- An International Driving License (IDL) is an excellent method to ensure that you may drive legally and securely when traveling overseas. It not only demonstrates that you are a cautious driver, but it is also used as identification in many countries. An IDL guarantees that your driving rights are maintained even while traveling across international boundaries.
- One of the primary advantages of having an IDL is that you will have access to rental automobiles, eliminating the need to rely on public transit or the compassion of strangers. This is especially useful if you want to explore distant locations or drive on strange roads.
- Because it is regarded as a genuine form of identity in many other countries, an IDL can also provide some security. This might come in handy if you ever find yourself in an emergency circumstance where you need to confirm your identity.
- Because it requires completing an international test and receiving a license from an approved organization, an IDL is also an excellent method to demonstrate that you are a responsible driver who takes your driving seriously.
- Finally, having an IDL might help you save money on auto insurance when you go overseas. Because insurance companies frequently need verification of an International Driving License before giving coverage, owning one can help you save money.
Things to keep in mind when applying for an IDL
- To apply for an International Driving License in Pakistan, you must be at least 18 years old.
- Before completing your application, make sure you have all of the required papers. Such as your original driver’s license, a valid passport, and three current pictures.
- The IDL application procedure might take up to two weeks, so prepare accordingly.
- The conditions and processes for applying for an IDL vary per province in Pakistan. For example, in Punjab, a clearance certificate from the Motor Vehicle Registration Authority (MVRA) is required. But in Islamabad, a letter of introduction from a local sponsor and a police report signed by a notary public are required. Applicants in Sindh and Khyber-Pakhtoon-Khwa must get a No Objection Certificate from the Provincial Traffic Police.
- Because the IDL price varies by province, make sure you investigate and understand the actual amount that must be paid for your application.
- Ensure that all of the information you supply is correct and up to date to avoid application delays or rejections.
- You will obtain your International Driving License within 4-6 weeks after your application has been approve.
Conclusion
Obtaining an international driving license in Pakistan is an excellent approach. To ensure that you may easily move throughout the world. With an IDL, you may drive and hire a car in a variety of nations. It is crucial to note, however, that you must still follow the regulations of each nation when driving.
If you intend to drive overseas, it is usually a good idea to plan ahead of time and ensure that you have all of the essential documentation for the countries you intend to visit. An international driving license in Pakistan may be a terrific benefit for going abroad if properly prepared!
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