1 – United States of America

According to a survey conducted in 2019, approximately 2.7 million Indians currently reside in the United States of America (source). If you are on the verge of joining this community, you must be aware of the provision enabling you to drive in the USA using your Indian driving licence for one year, starting from the day of your arrival.
However, this privilege comes with a set of requirements that must be fulfilled. These prerequisites include:

Possession of a valid driving license.

The license should be written in English.

It is essential to carry a duly attested Form I-94 while driving.

Form I-94 serves as documentation indicating your entry into the USA on a specific date.

By being one of the foreign countries that accept an Indian driving license, the United States relieves you from the obligation of obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a separate driving license within America for a minimum period of one year.

2 – Australia

Australia is a popular destination for many Indians, both for work and leisure purposes. Whether you are visiting for a vacation or work-related reasons, it is important to know that an Indian driving license is regarded as legal and valid across the entire country.

If you happen to be driving in the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, South Australia, or Queensland, your Indian license will be considered valid for a period exceeding one year.

However, it is essential to note that in the Northern regions of Australia, the validity of such a license is limited to a shorter duration of three months. It is crucial to keep these factors in mind so that you can plan your visit accordingly.

By possessing an English copy of your Indian driving licence, you are permitted to drive in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory. Additionally, you are allowed to drive the class of vehicle specified on your license. Please be aware that in the Northern Territory, driving under an Indian license is restricted to a maximum of three months.

3 – New Zealand

If you are an Indian citizen planning to visit or reside in New Zealand, it is important to note that you do not need to obtain a fresh driving license or an International Driving Permit (IDP). You can use your existing driving license, with the following considerations:

To rent a car in New Zealand, you must be 21 years of age or older.
Your driving license should be in English. Alternatively, you can possess an authorized translated copy provided by the New Zealand Transport Agency.

Your existing license remains valid for up to one year from the date of your arrival in the country. If you plan to stay longer, it is advisable to obtain an IDP or a driver’s license in New Zealand.

4 – France

If you are longing for delightful French wine and food, or planning to visit popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, having your car can greatly resolve transportation concerns. While your Indian driving license is accepted in France, it must have an authorized translation in French. Additionally, it is worth noting that French cars typically have left-hand drive.

5 – United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, namely Wales, England, and Scotland, individuals holding an Indian driving license can confidently travel on the roads. However, the license must be in English. Additionally, this license is valid for one year only. It is important to note that your current DL permits you to drive a particular vehicle class and not all classes.

6 – Switzerland

Switzerland has gained immense popularity as a preferred honeymoon destination among Indians, largely due to its portrayal in the iconic film ‘Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge’ featuring Shahrukh Khan and Kajol. If you intend to recreate the enchanting experience with your loved ones, it is noteworthy that Switzerland recognizes Indian drivers with their existing licenses. However, the license must be in English. Furthermore, this validation remains effective for one year only.

7 – South Africa

South Africa boasts breathtaking landscapes that are best enjoyed while traversing its vast open roads. For an entire year, you can explore these roads with your Indian driving license, granted it remains valid throughout this period.
The advantage lies in South Africa’s adherence to right-hand drive, eliminating the need for Indians to adapt to a different driving style, further simplifying the process.

8 – Malaysia 

Malaysia is among the select few countries in this compilation that permit driving with an Indian DL, but with an additional requirement of holding an international driving permit. Assuming you possess both of these essential documents, seize the opportunity to rent a car and embark on an expedition exploring the enchanting city of Singapore and its neighboring areas.

9 – Sweden 

If you intend to drive a car in Sweden using your Indian driver’s license, it must be in one of the following languages: Swedish, English, German, Norwegian, Danish, or French. Alongside this license, it is crucial to carry a photograph and ID at all times.

10 – Germany

In Germany, Indian nationals are permitted to drive on the country’s roads using their existing driving license; however, it is required to have a German translation of the license. The validity of this arrangement is limited to 6 months only. If the duration exceeds this period, it would be necessary to obtain a permit within Germany.

11 – Bhutan

Similarly, in Bhutan, Indian citizens are allowed to drive using their national driving license. Considering the predominantly mountainous regions and roads in Bhutan, it may be advisable, especially for those unfamiliar with handling vehicles in such terrains, to opt for an experienced driver instead.

12 – Canada

In Canada, Indian citizens can drive using their driving license for a maximum duration of 60 days. Beyond this time-frame, it becomes mandatory to obtain a separate permit if one intends to continue driving on Canadian roads.