Owning a UK driving license does not guarantee its acceptance for driving in other countries, the local officials said on Saturday.
For Pakistani visitors holding a UK or other foreign driving license, obtaining an IDP is mandatory.
The driving in Pakistan without an IDP is considered illegal.
To drive legally abroad, the citizens must possess an International Driving Permit (IDP), regardless of their national driving license.
Under the 1968 Vienna Convention—an agreement made in Paris—the foreign nationals are provided legal protection for driving in Pakistan. The convention ensures that the citizens from various countries can legally drive in others, and Pakistan is a signatory to this agreement.
The Pakistani citizens with an IDP are allowed to drive in any country for up to one year, subject to their domestic driving license.
The citizens holding an IDP issued by the British government can drive in Pakistan as long as they present their driving license as well.
What is IDP fee in Pakistan?
Currently, the fee for obtaining an IDP in Sindh is Rs1,100. Despite the low cost, there are not that much cases for the IDP at the 11 branches across Sindh.
The Pakistani citizens traveling abroad obtain IDPs due to concerns about international regulations, many do not realize the need for a driving license within Pakistan.
The Pakistani citizens driving without a driving license could face serious legal consequences, including charges of manslaughter in the event of an accident.
What is International Driving Permit (IDP) and its purpose?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that complements a national driving license, allowing individuals to drive legally in foreign countries. It does not replace the national license but must be used alongside it.
The IDP aims to provide legal protection for travelers driving internationally. The concept was first introduced under the 1926 Paris Motor Traffic Convention, followed by additional types under the 1949 Geneva Convention and the 1968 Vienna Convention.
Many countries accept IDPs issued under the 1949 and 1968 conventions. According to the UK government’s official website, the 1968 IDP is recognized in Pakistan.