Everything You Need to Know About Getting an International Driving Permit in Bangladesh
What Is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that allows Bangladeshi citizens to legally drive vehicles in foreign countries that recognize the permit. It acts as a translation of your domestic driving license and contains essential information, such as your name, photograph, and driver’s license number, printed in multiple languages. It is particularly useful if you plan to drive overseas for travel, work, or study.
Why Do You Need an IDP?
If you’re planning to drive abroad during your stay in a different country, an IDP is often required by local authorities. Many countries require international travelers to carry an IDP to ensure mutual understanding of driving credentials due to language barriers. It also serves as a form of identification and facilitates renting vehicles, as many rental companies overseas mandate an IDP in addition to your original driving license. Moreover, it mitigates legal issues and fines if you’re pulled over while driving internationally.
Where Can You Get an IDP in Bangladesh?
In Bangladesh, the authority responsible for issuing International Driving Permits is the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA). You must visit your nearest BRTA office to apply for the permit. You can find these offices in major cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, and other administrative regions across the country. It is essential to verify with the BRTA the specific office locations offering this service before visiting.
Who Is Eligible for an IDP?
To apply for an IDP in Bangladesh, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. First and foremost, you need to hold a valid Bangladeshi driving license. Additionally, you must be at least 18 years old. Your existing license should be up to date and reflect accurate information, as discrepancies could lead to rejection of your application. It’s also important that your driving license has been valid for at least six months prior to your application submission.
Documents Required for the Application
When you are applying for an IDP in Bangladesh, it’s vital to prepare the necessary documentation to avoid delays. Generally, the required documents include:
– A copy of your valid Bangladeshi driving license
– Two passport-sized photographs
– A copy of your passport (for international travel verification)
– The completed application form available from the BRTA
Additional documents may be requested, so it’s always best to check with the issuing authority or the BRTA website for any updates on recent requirements.
How Much Does It Cost?
The fee for obtaining an IDP in Bangladesh can vary depending on the services offered by the BRTA. On average, the cost is around BDT 2000 to BDT 3000. This fee covers the processing of the application and issuance of the permit. Payment is typically made in cash at the BRTA office upon submission of the application. Be sure to confirm the current fee when you visit the office or through the BRTA’s online portal.
Processing Time for an IDP
The processing time for an International Driving Permit in Bangladesh usually takes a few working days, but it can vary depending on demand and the specific BRTA office you visit. It’s strongly recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel date to avoid potential delays. Some applicants may receive their permit within three to five business days, while others might wait up to 10 business days depending on how busy the issuing office is.
Validity of the IDP
An International Driving Permit issued in Bangladesh is typically valid for one year from the date of issue. Keep in mind that the IDP must remain valid in conjunction with your Bangladeshi driving license. If your domestic license expires during the validity of the IDP, your IDP becomes invalid as well. Make sure to renew your domestic driving license to maintain both documents active if you plan further international travels.
Important Considerations When Using an IDP Abroad
While the IDP facilitates driving in many countries, it’s crucial to remember that it is not a replacement for your Bangladeshi driving license. You must carry both your IDP and your local license at all times when driving abroad to adhere to legal requirements. Additionally, some countries may have special regulations or restrictions, so it is advisable to familiarize yourself with driving rules in the country you plan to visit.
Documents Required for International Driving Permit: A Complete Checklist for Bangladeshi Citizens
1. Valid Bangladeshi Driving License
One of the most critical documents is your valid Bangladeshi driving license. This serves as proof that you are legally allowed to drive a vehicle in Bangladesh, and it will be cross-checked when issuing the IDP. Ensure that your license is not expired, as the application will be rejected if it is.
2. Completed and Signed Application Form
The official BRTA application form must be completed accurately and signed before submission. You can collect this form from the BRTA office or download it from their official website. Make sure all necessary sections are filled out correctly to avoid unnecessary delays in processing.
3. Passport-Sized Photographs
You will be required to provide two recent passport-sized photographs. These photos should meet standard passport photo guidelines, such as having a white background, appropriate size (typically 35mm x 45mm), and presenting a clear frontal view of your face. It’s always advisable to have extra copies on hand, in case the issuing office requests more than two.
4. Copy of Your National Passport
A photocopy of your national passport is another essential document for verifying your identity and international travel history. Ensure that the copy includes the pages displaying your photograph, personal information, and passport validity dates.
5. Proof of Visa for the Country You Intend to Visit
In some cases, applicants may need to provide a valid visa for the country where they plan to drive. Although this requirement depends on the destination, it’s a good idea to have your visa ready when applying for your IDP, especially if the goal is to drive in a specific foreign country.
6. Payment Receipt
After paying the required fee (between BDT 2000 to BDT 3000), you will receive a payment receipt. Be sure to include this receipt with your application as proof of payment for the permit processing. Without this, your application may not be processed promptly.
7. Additional Documents (If Required)
Depending on your personal situation or any updates in regulations, the BRTA may request additional documents. It’s always a good practice to contact the BRTA office ahead of time or visit their official website for any last-minute added requirements, such as proof of residential address or travel itinerary details.
How to Apply for Your International Driving Permit Through BRTA in Bangladesh
Step 1: Locate Your Nearest BRTA Office
The first step in applying for your International Driving Permit (IDP) in Bangladesh is to identify the nearest Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) office that offers this service. Offices are available in major cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet, but it’s essential to contact the specific office in advance to confirm that they issue IDPs. You can find office locations and contact details on the official BRTA website or by calling their helpline.
Step 2: Obtain the Application Form
Once you’ve identified the right BRTA office, you’ll need to collect the official IDP application form. This form can be obtained in one of two ways: either by visiting the BRTA office in person or downloading it directly from their official website. Ensure all information entered in the form is accurate, as any errors could lead to delays or rejection of your application.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Before submitting your application, make sure you have all the required documents ready. These include:
– A valid Bangladeshi driving license
– Two recent passport-sized photos
– A photocopy of your national passport
– Proof of payment for the application fee
It’s advisable to check the BRTA website or call ahead to ensure no additional documents are necessary.
Step 4: Submit Your Application In-Person
Once everything is prepared, you must submit your application in person at the selected BRTA office. Be sure to carry both original and photocopies of your documents, as the BRTA officers may want to verify these before accepting your submission. After submission, you will receive a receipt or acknowledgment slip as proof that your application is being processed.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fees
At the time of submitting your documents, you will need to pay the IDP processing fee. The fee typically ranges between BDT 2000 and BDT 3000, depending on the services offered by the BRTA office. Payments are usually made in cash at the office. After payment, ensure you obtain the official receipt, which should also be attached to your application documents.
Step 6: Wait for Processing and Collection
After submitting your application, the processing time for an IDP usually takes anywhere from three to ten working days, depending on how busy the BRTA office is. During this period, stay in touch with the office in case they require additional documents or verification. Once your permit is ready, you will be contacted, and you can collect it from the office where you applied.
Step 7: Verify the Details on Your IDP
When you receive your IDP, carefully check all the details printed on the document to ensure accuracy. Your name, photograph, and driving license number should match those on your domestic driving license. Any mistakes should be reported immediately to the BRTA staff for corrections.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an International Driving Permit in Bangladesh
Submitting an Incomplete Application Form
One of the most common mistakes applicants make is submitting an incomplete application form. Ensure that every mandatory section of the form is filled out correctly before submission. Any missing information or unfilled fields could lead to delays in processing your application, or worse, outright rejection. Double-check all the required details, including your name, driving license number, and contact information, to avoid such problems.
Failing to Provide All Required Documents
Applicants often overlook essential documents when submitting their applications. Missing documents like a copy of your Bangladeshi driving license, passport, or passport-sized photographs could halt your application process. Make sure you cross-reference the checklist provided by the BRTA and include all necessary documents with your application. It’s always a good idea to have extra copies just in case.
Using an Expired Domestic Driving License
Another common mistake is applying for an IDP using an expired local driving license. The IDP is only valid if your domestic license is current. If your Bangladeshi driving license has expired, renew it before applying for an IDP, as an expired license will result in immediate rejection of your application.
Not Verifying Eligibility Criteria
Applicants frequently overlook the eligibility criteria when applying. For instance, you must be at least 18 years old and should hold a valid Bangladeshi driving license for at least six months before applying for an IDP. Failing to meet these basic requirements will render your application invalid. Check the official BRTA guidelines to confirm your eligibility before proceeding.
Not Checking the Validity of Passport and Visa
While it may seem obvious, many applicants forget to ensure that their passport and, in some cases, visa are valid during the application process. A photocopy of your passport is a mandatory requirement, and if your passport is close to expiring, the BRTA might reject your application. Also, depending on the destination country, you may need to submit a valid visa, so make sure those documents are up-to-date.
Delaying Payment of Application Fees
Your IDP application will not be processed until the application fees are paid in full. Some applicants delay payments, causing unnecessary delays in their application timeline. Always come prepared to pay the fee—usually between BDT 2000 and BDT 3000—immediately upon submission to expedite your application.
Ignoring IDP Processing Time
Many applicants apply for their IDP too close to their travel date, which can lead to panic if there are delays in processing. The typical processing time ranges from three to ten business days, but this can vary based on how busy the BRTA office is. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your travel plans to accommodate any unexpected delays.
Forgetting to Verify Details on the Issued IDP
Once your IDP is issued, it’s crucial to verify all the printed details, such as your name, photograph, and driving license number. Some applicants fail to check these details, only to discover errors later when preparing to drive abroad. Any inaccuracies could invalidate your permit, so promptly report any mistakes to the BRTA for corrections.
Processing Time and Fees: Understanding the IDP Application Process in Bangladesh
Average Processing Time for Your IDP
The processing time for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Bangladesh generally ranges from three to ten business days. The specific duration may depend on the demand at your selected BRTA office and the completeness of your submitted documents. It’s advisable to apply for your IDP well in advance of any planned international travel to avoid last-minute delays. In case of high demand or holidays, processing times may increase, so always factor in a buffer period before your departure.
Ensuring Timely Application Submission
To minimize unnecessary delays, ensure that all parts of the application form are filled out accurately and that you submit all required documents in one go. A common reason for extended processing periods is incomplete applications or missing attachments. By double-checking everything before submission, you can avoid prolonging the process. Additionally, if you’re unsure about the appropriateness of certain documents, it’s best to consult with BRTA officials before finalizing the submission.
Breakdown of the Application Fee
The cost of obtaining an IDP in Bangladesh typically ranges between BDT 2000 to BDT 3000. This fee covers both the administrative costs and processing of your application. While this fee is fairly standard at most BRTA offices, there may be slight variations depending on the specific services offered by different locations. It’s important to confirm the exact amount with the BRTA office where you plan to submit your application to avoid any surprises.
Methods of Payment
In most BRTA offices, payments for the IDP application fees are made in cash. Upon submitting your completed application, you will be directed to pay the necessary fee and receive an official payment receipt. This receipt must be included with your documents as proof of payment. Currently, digital or card payment options may not be widely available across all BRTA offices, so it’s recommended to carry the necessary cash amount when visiting.
Additional Fees You Might Encounter
In rare cases, additional fees may apply depending on the speed of service or optional administrative support. For instance, applicants who require their IDP urgently may have the option to request expedited processing for an increased fee, although this service is not guaranteed in every BRTA office. Similarly, if you need additional copies or corrections after issuance, there may be extra charges involved. Always inquire with BRTA staff regarding any ancillary fees applicable to your specific situation.
