Rules & Regulations
Here are some rules and driving tips that you should be aware of before you start driving in India:
- Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
- When needing to turn onto a road on the left, stay close to the left side of the road and after making the turn continue on the left side of the road. (Do not cut across lanes from the right side of the road and then turn left).
- When turning onto a road on the right side, first approach the centre of the road as safely as possible and then turn to the right and stay on the left side of the road.
- Drink driving – The maximum permitted level of alcohol allowed in the bloodstream is 0.03%. Anyone caught breaking this law could face a fine or imprisonment.
- Right of Way on mountain roads/ steep roads: Where the width of the road is not sufficient for vehicles to pass each other safely, the vehicle going downhill has to stop to the side of the road and allow the vehicles to go uphill to pass.
- If there is a need to pass traffic proceeding in the same direction, always pass/overtake them on their right side. The only exception to this would be the case where a vehicle that is trying to turn to the right (and has indicated their intention to turn right) is occupying the centre lane and therefore requires passing them on the left side.
- At road intersections, pedestrian crossings and stop signs make sure that the vehicle is fully behind the stop lines painted on the road. The driver has to drive taking into account this requirement of stopping before the stop line when required by a stoplight or sign or by a police officer.
- Use of mobile phones is not allowed whilst driving.
Please make sure that you are aware of all the road regulations before you start driving in India.
Speed Limits
Speed limits to adhere to when driving in India:
| Urban roads | 70 km/h (43 mph) |
| Highways | 100 km/hr (62 mph) |
| Interstates | 120 km/h (75 mph) |
| National Upper Speed Limit | 140 km/h (87 mph) |
However, speed limits in India vary by state and vehicle type so please check the local limits before you start your journey.
Things to Bring Along
The person driving the vehicle should always carry the following documents:
- Driving License
- Certificate of registration of the vehicle
- Certificate of taxation
- Certificate of insurance
Additional Information
If you travel to New Dehli you can experience a city with lots of history and culture. Driving around the city you can visit the Red fort which was built in 1648, the Qutab minar which is described as the first mosque in India and Humayun’s Tomb the second of the great Mughal emperors.
If in Mumbai visit the gateway of India, a magnificent monument and Marine drive a road along the Arabian sea. Take a trip to Bangalore and visit the stunning Lalbagh Botanical Garden and whilst there you could drive out to Goa and see the Dudhsagar waterfalls and one of its famous beaches.
