How to Get International Driving License From Bangladesh

For Bangladeshi nationals venturing outside their homeland, exploring foreign landscapes often evokes a desire to get behind the wheel and experience the freedom of self-guided exploration. However, navigating the roads of unfamiliar territory requires an essential travel document the International Driving Permit (IDP).

Traveling abroad can be an exciting endeavor, but navigating foreign roads requires proper documentation, including an International Driving License (IDL). For Bangladeshi nationals planning to drive abroad, obtaining an IDL is essential. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for obtaining an international driving license from Bangladesh, ensuring a smooth and legal driving experience abroad.

What Is International Driving License (IDL)?

International Driving License (IDL) translates a driver’s license into multiple languages, facilitating legal driving in foreign countries. It provides essential information about the driver, including identification details and authorized vehicle categories. Although not a stand-alone document, the IDL complements the driver’s original license and helps foreign authorities understand the driver’s identity.

It is very important to clarify that Bangladesh, like many other countries, does not issue “International Driving Licenses”. Instead, they offer International Driving Permits (IDP), which serve as translations of your valid Bangladeshi driving license in multiple languages recognized by the Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. This translation allows authorities in participating countries to understand the validity and details of your driving privileges.

Who Needs an IDP?

While not universally mandatory, an IDP is highly recommended for Bangladeshi drivers in countries they travel to:

• An IDP required: Some countries, such as Italy, expressly mandate an IDP alongside your Bangladeshi license for legal driving.
• Know the IDP: Although not mandatory, several countries recognize the IDP as a valuable document that facilitates communication and potentially speeds up the car rental process.

Eligibility for an International Driving Permits

• Hold a valid Bangladeshi driving license.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Have a valid passport.
• Provide two recent passport size photographs.
• Fill the required application form available at Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) office or online.

How to Apply For International Driving License From Bangladesh?

Once all the documents are correct, visit the nearest BRTA office. Be prepared:

Choosing the Issuing Authority:​

Unlike other countries where the government issues IDP, the Automobile Association of Bangladesh (AAB) is the sole authorized body responsible for issuing IDP in the country. You can visit their headquarters in Dhaka or any of their regional offices across Bangladesh.

Gathering Required Documents:

Make sure you have the following documents readily available before starting your application process:

• Filled Application Form: Download the application form from AAB website (https://bsp.brta.gov.bd/?lan=en) or get one directly from their office. Fill the form accurately with your personal details, driving license information and intended travel destination (if known).
• Valid Bangladeshi Driving License: Present original copy of your valid driving license issued by Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA). If your license is issued outside Dhaka, you will need a photocopy attested by BRTA.
• Passport: Submit a photocopy of your valid Bangladeshi passport, ensuring that the data page with your photo and details is clearly visible.
• Recent Passport Size Photographs: Two recent passport size photographs with light background are required.
• Processing Fee: You will have to pay the processing fee as determined by AAB at the time of application. Fees are subject to change, so it is advised to check with AAB directly for current fees.

Submitting Your Application:

Once you have gathered the required documents, visit the AAB office in person or arrange for a trusted person to submit your application on your behalf. Ensure all documents are properly filled, signed and attached before submission.

Processing and Collection:

The processing time of IDP may vary depending on the workload at the AAB office. Generally, it takes about 2-3 working days to process your application and issue your IDP. After approval, you can collect your IDP from the AAB office where you submitted your application.

IDPs issued in Bangladesh are generally valid for one year from the date of issue. However, it is very important to check the specific validity period with the AAB as this information may change. Your IDP renewal follows the same process as the initial application. You can apply for renewal at any AAB office, provided your Bangladeshi driving license is valid.

Application Form PDF For International Driving License

Apply for international driving permit in Bangladesh

Applying for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Bangladesh enables citizens to legally drive abroad. To obtain an IDP, individuals must have a valid Bangladeshi driving license, be at least 18 years old, have a valid passport and provide two recent passport size photographs. The application process involves visiting the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) office, submitting the required documents, filling the application form and paying the prescribed fee. Once approved, the IDP is issued, usually valid for one year.

Validity of international driving permit in Bangladesh

International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in other countries is not valid for driving in Bangladesh.

• IDPs are translations, not licenses: As explained earlier, IDPs serve as a translation of your existing driving license. They do not give you additional driving privileges or authorization to drive in a particular country.
• Bangladesh does not recognize foreign IDPs: Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) only accepts driving licenses issued within Bangladesh to drive on Bangladeshi roads.

Cost of international driving permit in Bangladesh

The cost of an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Bangladesh is currently 7,000 Bangladeshi taka (BDT). The cost of obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Bangladesh usually includes an application fee set by the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA). Although specific fees may vary, they are generally nominal. Applicants should be prepared to cover the cost of application processing, which usually includes administrative fees and any associated charges for document verification.

How To Renewal International Driving License?

International Driving Permit (IDP) cannot be renewed in Bangladesh. Instead, every time you want to drive abroad, you need to apply for a new IDP following the same process as the initial application.

• Gather Documents
• Submit Application

Processing time, usually around 2-3 business days, may vary depending on AAB office workload. Once processed, collect your new IDP from the AAB office where you submitted your application. The renewal cost is identical to the initial application fee, currently 7,000 Bangladeshi taka (BDT).

Final Thought

Obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Bangladesh empowers you to navigate foreign roads with confidence. Remember, the process involves collecting the required documents, submitting your application to the Automobile Association of Bangladesh (AAB) and paying a processing fee.

Although straightforward, keep in mind the validity period of the IDP and understand that it is not valid for driving within Bangladesh. With careful planning and following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the freedom of the open road abroad.