Lithuania cancels driving exams in russian, but makes an exception for Ukrainians
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Starting next year, exams for future drivers in Lithuania will be held under new rules. Now they will be conducted in Lithuanian driving tests will be conducted exclusively in Lithuanian or other official EU languages. Find out who will be granted an exception
From January 2025, new driving test rules will come into force in Lithuania. Theoretical and practical tests will be available only in Lithuanian or one of the official languages of the European Union (EU). However, an exception will be made for Ukrainian citizens who are in the country and have temporary EU protection. This was reported by the Ministry of the Interior of Lithuania.
What is the reason for this?
The innovation is enshrined in the order of the Minister of the Interior Agne Bilotaite and is aimed at strengthening the position of the state language, improving the integration of foreigners into Lithuanian society and strengthening cooperation with the EU.
‘This decision helps to reduce the impact of external threats on national security. We have a clear position: public services in Lithuania should not be provided in the language of the aggressor country. We provide access to services in all official languages of the EU, with an exception for Ukrainians who have temporary EU protection,’ the ministry said.
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How will the exams be held?
According to the new rules:
- The theoretical exam can be taken in Lithuanian or any of the official EU languages.
- During the practical exam, candidates who do not speak any of these languages will be able to invite an interpreter. The translation will be from or into an official EU language.
By the way, do not forget that Lithuania is one of the European countries where foreign drivers are required to have international car insurance. If you are entering Lithuania by your own car, we advise you to apply for a Green Card in advance to avoid problems and violations of the law, which are punishable by a fine.
For those who started preparing for the exams under the old rules, there is a transitional period. This will allow them to complete the process without having to switch to the new language requirements.
According to Regitra, in 2022, driving theory exams in Russian were taken 10,381 times, and in the first 11 months of 2023, 11,560 times. Most of the exams were taken by foreigners seeking to obtain driving categories B (cars), C (trucks) and A (motorcycles).
Ukrainians who have arrived in Lithuania and are under temporary EU protection will be able to continue to take the exams in their native language. This decision is related to the special situation caused by the war in Ukraine and is intended to facilitate the adaptation process for the citizens of this country.
At the same time, the Ministry of the Interior also recommended that all subordinate institutions provide services exclusively in Lithuanian or official EU languages. This applies to all areas of interaction with residents and foreigners, including paperwork and consultations.
We remind you! Car insurance in Lithuania is a mandatory item not only for local residents but also for foreigners. However, you should choose insurance based on how long you plan to stay in this country.
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