New Delhi: Planning to drive overseas? Your Indian driving license might be more powerful than you think. Several countries allow Indian citizens to operate vehicles using their domestic license—at least for a limited time. Here’s a look at where you can hit the road without immediately needing an international permit.

United States

If you're traveling to the U.S., you can drive on Indian roads—legally—for up to one year from your date of arrival. However, your license must be printed in English. To prove your entry date, you’ll need to carry your I-94 travel record, which is issued by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. You can also access this document digitally via the CBP One or CBP GO mobile apps.

Canada

In Canada, Indian driving licenses are accepted—but only for a short span. You're allowed to drive for up to 60 days (around two months). After this, you’ll need to apply for a local driver’s license depending on the province you're in.

United Kingdom

Heading to the UK? Whether you're in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, your Indian license will allow you to drive for up to 12 months from the date of arrival. After this period, you’ll have to switch to a UK-issued license if you wish to continue driving.

These durations apply mainly to visitors and short-term residents. If you're relocating or planning an extended stay, it's wise to explore the process of converting your Indian license or obtaining a new one locally. Always check the most up-to-date regulations from official transport or immigration departments before planning your trip.