Pakistan
International Driver's License for
Pakistan
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Apply online in 2 minutes — Digital copy in 8 minutesApply in 2 minutes — Receive in 8 minutes
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Printed booklet shipped worldwide — Free ID card includedWorldwide shipping — Free ID card included
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Valid in 175+ countries — Translated into 12 languagesValid in 175+ countries — 12 Translations
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Free replacements if lost or damagedFree replacements if lost or damaged
Do You Need an IDP in Pakistan?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in Pakistan depends on who you are and how long you are staying.
Last updated:
| Driver type | IDP needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist or short-term visitor | Recommended | Strongly recommended for all visitors; often required when your license is not in the local language. |
| Rental car driver | Often required | Many rental agencies ask for an IDP alongside a foreign license at pickup. |
| Long-term resident | Not sufficient | After establishing residency you will usually need a local driver's license. |
| Local license holder traveling abroad | Recommended | Carry an IDL with your national license when driving in most foreign countries. |
Rules vary by region — see the FAQ below for local requirements and traffic laws.
Documents you need
- A valid driver's license from your home country
- A passport-style photo — a phone photo is accepted
- No driving test and no DMV visit required
You do not need to be a citizen or resident to apply.
How it works
- Complete the online application — it takes about 2 minutes
- Upload your driver's license and photo
- Receive your digital IDL in about 8 minutes; the printed booklet ships worldwide
International Driver's License Information & Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driver's License in Pakistan?
An International Driver's License is recommended for foreign visitors driving in Pakistan. While a home license may be accepted for short stays, the IDL provides an official translation that provincial traffic police and the National Highways and Motorway Police can read. Remember Pakistan drives on the left, and carry the IDL with your home license. You can apply online through E-ITA in minutes.
What is an IDL/IDP, and how does it work in Pakistan?
In Pakistan, an International Driving License (IDL) or International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translation booklet for your existing national license. It gives no driving rights by itself — it simply makes your home license readable to Pakistani authorities and rental staff. You show it together with your valid national license, never in its place.
What are the main traffic laws in Pakistan?
* Drive on the left side of the road.
* Minimum age to drive a car is 18; the minimum age to rent is usually 21.
* Seat belts are required by national law — always wear one when available.
* Handheld mobile phone use while driving is prohibited; hands-free devices are permitted.
* Helmets are required for motorcycle and scooter riders and their passengers.
* The legal blood-alcohol limit is 0.00% — do not drink and drive at all.
* Urban speed is around 90 km/h (about 55 mph) on some roads and rural/motorway limits around 100 km/h (about 62 mph); always follow posted signs.
Do rental car companies in Pakistan require an IDL?
Self-drive rentals are less common in Pakistan than hiring a car with a driver, but where self-drive is offered, agencies generally want an International Driver's License with your national license and passport. Because traffic drives on the left, an IDL and a careful approach help unfamiliar drivers. The usual minimum rental age is around 21.
How long can I drive in Pakistan on my foreign license?
Pakistan may accept a valid foreign license for short visits, and pairing it with an International Driver's License removes doubt at police checks. Longer stays or residency would require a local Pakistani license. For a short trip, your home license plus the IDL is the combination to carry.
Can I get an International Driver's License on arrival in Pakistan?
There is no convenient on-arrival service to issue a foreign-translation permit in Pakistan, so arrange it before you travel. Since E-ITA works fully online, you can still apply after landing from your phone and receive your digital IDL within minutes, then carry the printed booklet.
How do I apply for an International Driver's License for Pakistan?
Apply through E-ITA online: fill in a short form, upload a photo of your current license, and submit — no exam, no office visit. Your digital IDL is issued in minutes and the physical booklet can be shipped to you. Keep your valid national license on hand while applying.
Who can apply for an IDL to drive in Pakistan?
Anyone holding a valid full national driver's license and meeting Pakistan's minimum driving age of 18 can apply. The IDL only translates the license you already hold; it is not a substitute for passing a driving test.
Is a digital copy of the IDL accepted in Pakistan?
The physical booklet is the preferred document and should be carried while driving. A digital copy can serve as a backup and may be accepted by some rental desks for last-minute arrivals, but keep the printed IDL with your national license for police checks.
What documents should I carry while driving in Pakistan?
Carry your valid national license, your International Driver's License, your passport, and rental and insurance papers if applicable. Pakistan enforces a zero blood-alcohol limit, so never drink and drive. Driving without the required documents can lead to fines and rental refusal.
What travelers say
Reviews from verified E-ITA customers.
“The rental agent asked for an IDP with my license. I showed the digital copy from my phone and picked up the car with no issues.”
“The digital version arrived fast and worked at the rental counter. The printed booklet took five days to arrive, which was fine for my trip.”
“Applied from the airport with urgent processing and had the PDF before boarding. Exactly what I needed for my road trip.”
Ready to drive in Pakistan?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
