How to Apply for International Driving License
When you actually need an international driving permit
Not every country requires an IDP — and some that officially "require" it rarely enforce the requirement for short visits. The UAE, for instance, accepts Pakistani licenses for tourist rentals at most agencies, though having an IDP eliminates any rental counter debates. The UK recognizes Pakistani licenses for 12 months. The US varies by state — California accepts foreign licenses, while Georgia technically doesn't. Research your specific destination before spending Rs. 2,500-5,000 on an IDP you might not need.
If you do need one, the process is straightforward: visit AA Pakistan with your valid Pakistani license, passport, photos, and fee. Same-day processing is available at some offices. The IDP is a booklet that translates your Pakistani license into multiple languages — it's NOT a standalone license. You must carry both documents when driving abroad. Rental car companies will ask for both, and police in countries like Turkey and Japan will ticket you for having only the IDP without the original license.
Apply at AA Pakistan or DLIMS offices. Bring valid Pakistani license, passport copy, CNIC, photos. Fee: Rs. 2,500-5,000. Valid 1 year in 150+ countries.
Related: apply for license, renewal, documents needed.
International Driving Permit — Country Requirements
| Destination | IDP Required? | Pakistani License Accepted? | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | Recommended | Yes (tourist only, 3 months) | Residents must convert to UAE license |
| Saudi Arabia | Yes for visitors | No without IDP | Residents convert through Muroor |
| UK | Yes for visitors | Recognized for 12 months | Must get UK license after 12 months |
| USA | Varies by state | Some states accept, some don't | IDP strongly recommended |
| Canada | Recommended | Varies by province | IDP valid for 60-90 days |
| Turkey | Yes | No without IDP | IDP valid for 6 months |
| Malaysia | Yes | No without IDP | IDP sufficient for tourism |
| Australia | Recommended | Queensland accepts, others vary | IDP valid for 3 months |
IDP Application Process in Pakistan
Where to apply: Automobile Association of Pakistan (AA) offices in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and other major cities. Some DLIMS offices also process IDP applications. AA Pakistan is the most reliable issuing authority — their IDPs are recognized internationally without question.
What to bring: Valid Pakistani driving license (must be current — expired licenses can't be used for IDP), CNIC, passport (valid for at least 6 months), 4 passport-size photographs, and the fee (Rs. 2,500-5,000). Processing time: 3-7 working days. Some offices offer same-day express service at a higher fee.
IDP validity: One year from the date of issue. It doesn't extend your Pakistani license — if your Pakistani license expires while the IDP is still valid, the IDP becomes invalid too. Plan accordingly: renew your Pakistani license before getting the IDP so you have the full year of IDP validity backed by an active license.
Need to renew your license first? Renewal process. For motorcycle IDP: same process applies — ensure your MC category is on the Pakistani license. Returning from abroad? Verify your license is genuine before applying for IDP.
Timing your IDP application with your travel plans requires attention: IDPs take 3-7 working days to process, and your underlying Pakistani license must remain valid for the entire IDP validity period. If your license expires in 8 months and you get a 1-year IDP, the IDP effectively becomes invalid when the license expires at month 8. Renew your Pakistani license first, then apply for the IDP to maximize both validity periods.
An IDP is NOT a standalone license. You must carry both the IDP AND your original Pakistani driving license when driving abroad. The IDP is a translation companion — without the original license, the IDP is meaningless. Some rental car companies check both documents; police in many countries require both during traffic stops.
Always verify current requirements. Fees, timelines, and document requirements can change without advance notice. Check the relevant official website or call the office before your visit to confirm the latest requirements.