Driving License Apostille & Attestation from MEA, Delhi – Quick & Reliable Process
Introduction to Driving License Apostille
If you’re planning to drive, work, or settle abroad, you’ll likely need Driving License Apostille or Attestation from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Delhi. This crucial process validates your Indian driving license for international use, making it legally acceptable in foreign countries. Many nations, especially those part of the Hague Convention, require this certification for issuing international driving permits, work visas, or residency approvals.
Why is Driving License Apostille Necessary?
An MEA Apostille serves as an international authentication that verifies the genuineness of your driving license. Without this certification, foreign authorities may not recognize your Indian license. Common situations requiring apostille include:
Applying for an International Driving Permit (IDP)
Securing employment visas (especially for drivers or transport-related jobs)
Immigration and residency procedures
Higher education in countries where driving license serves as ID proof
Countries Requiring Driving License Apostille
All Hague Convention member countries mandate apostille for Indian driving licenses. These include popular destinations like:
✓ United States ✓ United Kingdom ✓ Canada ✓ Australia ✓ France ✓ Germany ✓ UAE ✓ Spain ✓ Italy ✓ New Zealand
Step-by-Step Driving License Apostille Process
1. Notary Attestation
The first step involves getting a notarized copy of your driving license from a registered notary public. This confirms the document’s authenticity at a basic level.
2. Regional Transport Office (RTO) Verification
Some Indian states require additional verification from the RTO that issued the license. This step ensures the license wasn’t fraudulently obtained.
3. State Home Department Attestation
Certain states demand attestation from their Home Department before MEA processing or Attestation from SDM, New Delhi.
4. MEA Apostille (Final Authentication)
The Ministry of External Affairs in Delhi applies the apostille stamp, making your license valid internationally. This is the most crucial step in the entire process.
Documents Required for Apostille
Original driving license (for verification)
Notarized copy of driving license
Clear passport copies (first & last page)
Visa copy (if available)
Authorization letter (if using an agent)
Processing Time & Fees Breakdown
Standard Processing (5-7 Working Days)
Notary Attestation: 1 day
RTO/Home Dept: 2-3 days
MEA Apostille: 2-3 days
Express Processing (2-3 Working Days)
Available at additional cost through authorized agents – INFINITYGRO
INFINITYGRO Apostille Services
✓ Single-window solution
✓ Faster processing through contacts
✓ Doorstep document collection/delivery
✓ Expert guidance at every step
Best for: Urgent requirements, applicants outside Delhi
Common Challenges & Solutions
1. State-Specific Requirements
Challenge: Some states have additional steps
Solution: Professional agents know exact requirements
2. Name Mismatches
Challenge: Differences between license and passport names
Solution: Obtain affidavit for name variation
3. Old License Formats
Challenge: Non-digital licenses face more scrutiny
Solution: Renew license before apostille
FAQs About Driving License Apostille
1. Can I use my Indian license abroad without apostille?
Only for short tourist visits. Long stays/work require apostille.
2. Is police verification mandatory?
Generally no, unless specified by destination country.
3. How long is the apostille valid?
The stamp itself doesn’t expire, but some countries prefer documents issued within 6 months.
4. Can I get apostille for a learner’s license?
No, only permanent driving licenses qualify.
5. What if my license is from a different state?
The process remains same, but may require additional state attestation.
Why Choose Our Apostille Services in Delhi?
✔ Fastest Processing – As low as 2 working days
✔ Transparent Pricing – No hidden charges
✔ Document Safety – Secure handling & tracking
✔ Expert Team – 10+ years experience
✔ Pan-India Service – We handle all state requirements
How to Start Your Apostille Process?
Contact Us – Call/WhatsApp for free consultation
Submit Documents – Via courier or in-person
Track Progress – Real-time updates
Receive Apostille – At your doorstep