A UK driving licence alone is not sufficient to drive in Pakistan. The country’s regulations require that foreign drivers carry both their domestic licence and an IDP. This legal requirement stems from the Vienna Convention of 1968, which Pakistan is a signatory to. The Convention allows citizens of member states to drive legally in other member countries, but only if they possess an IDP alongside their national driving licence.
Sindh DIG Licensing and Traffic Iqbal Dara highlighted this requirement, explaining that the IDP provides legal protection for foreign drivers in Pakistan. In a notable case involving a traffic incident on Karachi’s Karsaz Road, a UK licence holder faced legal issues because she did not have an IDP. Despite her argument that her licence was valid worldwide, the absence of an IDP led to legal complications. Dara emphasized that without an IDP, even the most prestigious foreign licences do not exempt drivers from legal consequences in Pakistan.
In Sindh, acquiring an IDP is a straightforward process. The permit costs Rs1,100 and can be obtained relatively easily. However, there is a surprising trend where many Pakistanis secure an IDP in anticipation of moving abroad but neglect to obtain a driving licence in their own country. This oversight can lead to severe legal repercussions, including serious charges if an accident occurs while driving without a valid licence.
An IDP serves as a supplementary document to your domestic driving licence, not a replacement. It is an internationally recognized permit that translates your driving credentials into several languages, making it easier for authorities in foreign countries to understand and validate your driving qualifications.
The IDP’s origins trace back to the 1926 Motor Traffic Convention in Paris, with subsequent updates under the 1949 Geneva Convention and the 1968 Vienna Convention. These international agreements have established a standardized system for driving permits that many countries, including Pakistan, accept.
If you hold a UK driving licence and plan to drive in Pakistan, ensure that you obtain the 1968 IDP. The UK government’s official website confirms that this permit is recognized for driving in Pakistan. Being well-prepared with both your UK driving licence and the IDP will help you navigate the roads legally and avoid potential legal issues.
To drive legally in Pakistan, you need both your domestic driving licence and an IDP. Make sure to obtain the IDP before you travel to ensure a smooth driving experience in Pakistan and comply with local regulations.
