Bangladesh attracts tourists from all over the world due to its vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and historic sites. If you are planning to visit this diverse country, one of the things you need to consider is your mode of transportation. While taxis and public transportation are convenient options, having your own vehicle can give you more freedom to explore different parts of Bangladesh at your own pace.
How do you get an IDP for Bangladesh?
There are two ways in which you can obtain an IDP for Bangladesh:
In-person application
You can visit the Department of Road Transport and Highways in Bangladesh to apply for an IDP. You need to provide your national driving license, two passport-size photos, a photocopy of your passport and visa, and pay the required fee. The process can take up to a week; you must collect the IDP in person.
Online application
Online application is arguably the more convenient option for obtaining an IDP in Bangladesh. You can apply through our website or a third-party service provider. You must provide scanned copies of your national driving license, passport, and visa and upload a digital photo. The processing time is usually shorter, and you can receive your IDP via mail.
With the International Driver’s Association , you can get your digital copy for as low as $49 USD . Our service is available 24/7, and you can get your copy within 8 minutes.
Important things to know about the IDP
- An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue and can only be used in conjunction with your national driving license.
- You must always carry your IDP and national driving license while driving in Bangladesh . Failure to do so can result in fines or even imprisonment.
- You must be 18 years or older to apply for an IDP.
- The fee for an IDP in Bangladesh may vary depending on which country issued your national driving license.
- An IDP is not a substitute for a valid driver’s license. It is only meant to serve as a translation of your existing license.
- Check the expiration date of your IDP before traveling to Bangladesh. You must apply for a new one if it expires during your stay.
Here’s why you need to carry an IDP
Aside from being a required document to rent a car in Bangladesh , an IDP also offers the following benefits:
Ease of communication
With an IDP, you can easily communicate with local authorities in case of traffic violations or accidents. It serves as a standard document recognized by different countries, making it easier to explain your credentials.
Wider coverage
An IDP is valid in more than 150 countries , so if you plan on traveling to other destinations after Bangladesh, having an IDP can save you the hassle of applying for a new license in each country. And because it is translated into the 12 most widely spoken languages, you can present it to authorities in any of these countries.
Peace of mind
Traveling to a foreign country can be overwhelming, but having an IDP with you can give you peace of mind, knowing that you have all the necessary documents to drive in Bangladesh legally.
Driving tips to keep you safe in Bangladesh
- Traffic drives on the left side of the road in Bangladesh.
- The legal driving age in Bangladesh is 18 years old.
- It is mandatory to wear seatbelts while driving, and it is strictly enforced by traffic police.
- Using handheld devices while driving is prohibited and can result in fines or imprisonment.
- Most rental car companies require you to be at least 21 years old to rent a car, and some may also require an IDP.
- Young driver’s surcharge may apply to drivers under 25 years old.
- Be aware of Bangladesh’s local traffic laws and regulations to avoid any violations or accidents.
- Traffic in densely populated cities like Dhaka can be chaotic, so it’s important to stay alert and cautious while driving.
- Tolls and parking fees may apply in certain areas, so it is recommended that you have some local currency with you at all times.
- The blood alcohol limit while driving in Bangladesh is 0.02% , so it is advised to avoid drinking and driving.
- Use GPS navigation to help you navigate through unfamiliar roads and places in Bangladesh .
FAQs
Do I still need an IDP even if I have a valid driver’s license from my home country?If you use public transportation such as buses, trains, and boats in Bangladesh, you won’t need an IDP. However, an IDP is among the requirements in Bangladesh if you wish to rent a car and travel independently.
Can I use my IDP in other countries besides Bangladesh?Yes, an IDP is recognized in more than 150 countries. However, before traveling, check the specific requirements and regulations for driving in each country. As important as securing your passport and visa, ensure you have an IDP before your trip.
Can I use my IDP to drive a motorcycle in Bangladesh?No, an IDP only covers driving vehicles that require a license. You must obtain a separate motorcycle license to drive a motorcycle in Bangladesh. Also, obtain additional insurance coverage to widen your policy while driving a motorcycle.
Can I use my IDP to drive in Bangladesh if I am under 18?No, the legal driving age in Bangladesh is 18. You must be at least 18 to apply for an IDP and legally drive a vehicle in the country. If you are traveling with someone under 18, they cannot drive even with an IDP.
Can I drive a car in Bangladesh with an Indian license?You can drive in Bangladesh with an Indian license, but it is recommended that you carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) for legal compliance.
Is there any specific driving etiquette in Bangladesh that Indians should know?Indian visitors in Bangladesh should drive safely by using the horn sparingly, yielding to pedestrians, wearing seat belts, and following speed limits (40-50 km/h in cities, 80 km/h on highways). They should also avoid mobile use, park securely, and follow traffic rules.
