How to Convert USD Into Rupees

Currency conversion or currency exchange is the process of trading one currency for another, which is often necessary when traveling to a foreign country. United States dollars (USD) are accepted in the U.S. and sometimes in tourist-heavy areas of foreign countries, but holding local currency will help avoid problems if dollars are not accepted. Rupees are the official currency of India. Dollars can be converted into rupees using a few different methods.

• 1

  Check the current exchange rates between dollars and rupees. National newspapers like The New York Times will often have current exchange rate information in the business section. You can also check current exchange rates online at popular finance websites. (See Resources.)

• 2

  Travel to a bank or foreign exchange service counter and compare the dollar-to-rupee exchange rate it offers with the rate you found in Step 1. Currency changers will usually offer rates that are slightly worse than current rates to make a profit. If the difference between rates is more than a few percent, you may wish to try a different bank or exchange to find a better rate. Currency exchanges at airports usually offer unfavorable rates.

• 3

  Tell a teller that you wish to convert your dollars into rupees. You should carry a small amount of foreign currency with you when traveling abroad, just in case you need it before you can get more upon arrival.

• 4

  Withdraw additional rupees from an ATM in India using a debit card. If you are traveling to India, withdrawing rupees from an ATM in the airport or a bank in a major city will likely afford better exchange rates than using a currency conversion service.