Source Document Requirements for International Driving Permit Applications in Travel

Last Updated Apr 17, 2025

The source document for international driving permit applications is typically a valid domestic driver's license issued by the applicant's home country. This original license must be presented along with a completed application form, passport-sized photos, and a government-issued identification or passport for verification. The international driving permit serves as a translation of the domestic license, allowing travelers to drive legally in foreign countries that recognize the document.

Overview of International Driving Permit (IDP)

Overview of International Driving Permit (IDP)
Definition An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a legal document that translates your driver's license into multiple languages, facilitating driving in foreign countries without language barriers.
Purpose The IDP serves as a recognized identification and authorization for driving internationally, supplementing your valid domestic driver's license.
Validity IDPs typically remain valid for one to three years, depending on issuing country regulations and international agreements.
Source Document for Application Your valid, domestic driver's license is the primary source document required to apply for an IDP. This document proves your eligibility to drive and authorizes the issuance of the IDP by authorized agencies.
Issuing Authorities Authorized automobile associations or government agencies designated by your country issue IDPs, following international conventions such as the 1949 Geneva or 1968 Vienna Conventions on Road Traffic.
Importance for Travelers Holding an IDP can prevent legal issues and ease communication with local authorities when driving abroad.

Importance of Source Documents for IDP Applications

The source document for International Driving Permit (IDP) applications is your valid domestic driver's license. This document verifies your driving credentials and eligibility to apply for an IDP.

Source documents are crucial because they establish your identity and authorize you to drive internationally. Without a valid driver's license, you cannot obtain an IDP, as the permit only serves as a translation of your existing license. Ensuring your source document is current and valid streamlines the application process and prevents delays.

Valid Passport Requirements for IDP

The source document for International Driving Permit (IDP) applications is your valid passport. A valid passport must have at least six months of remaining validity from the date of application and contain clear identification details. Ensure your passport information matches your application to avoid delays in processing the IDP.

National Driving License Criteria

The source document for International Driving Permit applications is your valid National Driving License, meeting specific criteria set by your country. This document verifies your eligibility to drive internationally and must comply with recognized legal standards.

  1. Validity - Your national driving license must be current and not expired to serve as a valid source document.
  2. Format - The license should include standard identification details such as your full name, photograph, date of birth, and signature.
  3. Authorization - It must be issued by the official government agency responsible for driver licensing in your country, ensuring authenticity.

Passport-Sized Photograph Specifications

What is the passport-sized photograph specification for your International Driving Permit application? The source document requires a recent, clear photograph measuring 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm). Your photograph must have a plain white or off-white background, show a full-face view with a neutral expression, and be taken within the last six months to ensure compliance.

Application Form Completion Guidelines

The source document for International Driving Permit applications is the official application form provided by the issuing authority. This form requires accurate completion of personal details, driver's license information, and travel plans to ensure validity. You must carefully follow the application form completion guidelines to avoid delays in processing your permit.

Proof of Residency or Address Documentation

The source document for International Driving Permit (IDP) applications typically requires proof of residency or address documentation. This ensures the applicant's local residential status is verified before issuing the permit.

  • Government-issued utility bill - A recent utility bill such as electricity, water, or gas confirming current residential address.
  • Official bank statement - A bank statement dated within the past three months showing the applicant's name and residential address.
  • Lease or rental agreement - A valid lease contract that includes the applicant's name and residence location as proof of living at the stated address.

Providing accurate proof of residency supports the legitimacy of the International Driving Permit application process.

Translation and Notarization of Documents

The source document for International Driving Permit (IDP) applications is the applicant's valid domestic driving license. This document must be accurately translated and notarized if it is not in the official language of the issuing authority.

Translation ensures that all driving credentials are clearly understood by foreign authorities, facilitating legal recognition abroad. Notarization verifies the authenticity of the translation, adding an official layer of trust to the application process.

Fees and Payment Methods for IDP Processing

The source document for International Driving Permit (IDP) applications is your valid domestic driver's license issued by your home country. This document verifies your identity and driving qualifications for the permit's issuance.

Processing fees for an IDP typically vary by issuing authority and country, often ranging between $15 and $25. Payment methods accepted include credit or debit cards, money orders, and in some cases, cash payments at authorized offices.

  • Application Fee - Covers administrative costs and varies according to the issuing agency's regulations.
  • Accepted Payment Methods - Include credit/debit cards, money orders, and sometimes cash for in-person submissions.
  • Receipt Requirement - You should keep the payment receipt as proof of your IDP processing transaction.

What Is the Source Document for International Driving Permit Applications? Infographic

Source Document Requirements for International Driving Permit Applications in Travel


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The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be complete. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the content, we cannot guarantee that the details mentioned are up-to-date or applicable to all scenarios. Topics about What Is the Source Document for International Driving Permit Applications? are subject to change from time to time.

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