Losing a driver's license: Will you have to retake the tests in 2026?

Losing a driver’s license is a situation that thousands of Ukrainians face every year. The Ministry of Internal Affairs has explained whether you need to retake the exams, how to replace the document, and what details to keep in mind in 2026. Learn more about the rules for replacing a driver’s license in Ukraine

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In Ukraine, replacing a lost driver’s license does not involve obtaining a new document, but rather a standard procedure that takes minimal time provided all the necessary information is available in the registry. This is why most drivers can avoid retaking training courses and exams.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs, as part of the “Ask the MIA” project, has clarified the key rules: when exams are not required, in which cases they must be taken, and exactly how license renewal works—online or through service centers.

Do you need to take exams if you lose your driver’s license?

If you lose your driver’s license in Ukraine, you do not need to retake the exams. The law clearly distinguishes between the procedures: this is not obtaining a new license, but renewing it, so the requirements are much simpler.

According to Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 340, in such a situation, the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ service centers issue a new document based on existing data. After the application is submitted, the driver’s information is verified in the Unified State Register, and if it is confirmed, the license is reinstated without additional exams.

All previously obtained vehicle categories are retained. It also does not matter when the previous license was obtained—retaking the written or driving test is not required.

At the same time, there is an important detail: after renewal, the document’s validity period changes. The new license is issued for 30 years from the date of issuance, even if the previous one was issued earlier.

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In which cases will you still have to take exams?

Although in most cases renewing a driver’s license does not require retaking exams, the law provides for one important exception.

This refers to situations where the driver has been deprived of the right to operate vehicles. In such a case, getting the license back is no longer a simple renewal procedure—it is, in fact, a re-confirmation of the right to drive.

After the suspension period ends, the individual must pass a written and practical exam. Only after successfully passing both stages can the driver’s license be returned.

Thus, the key difference is simple: if the document is lost, no exams are required; if the driver has been disqualified, retaking the exams is unavoidable.

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How to renew a driver’s license in Ukraine in 2026?

Renewing a driver’s license is a fairly simple procedure that takes minimal time, provided all data is in the registry. This can be done both in person and online—both options involve submitting an application and receiving a new document.

Renewal at an MIA Service Center

The most common method is to visit any regional Ministry of Internal Affairs service center. The procedure requires a single visit and, in most cases, does not require an appointment.

To renew your license, you need to:

- Visit a Ministry of Internal Affairs service center

- Submit the required documents

- Have your photo taken on-site

- Receive a new driver’s license

If all information is verified, the new document is issued on the day of your visit.

Online renewal via Diya or the Driver’s Portal

For those who want to save time, online renewal is available through digital services. This is especially convenient if you cannot visit a service center immediately.

The process is as follows:

- Log in to the Driver’s Account or the Diya app

- Submit an application to renew your license

- Select a method for receiving the document

- Pick up the license at a service center or have it delivered

Online submission allows you to complete the application in a few minutes and pick up the finished document at a convenient time or receive it by mail.

We previously reported that Ukraine plans to introduce mandatory vehicle inspections for all cars by 2027.

What documents are required to renew a driver’s license?

To renew a driver’s license, you must prepare a basic set of documents. The procedure has been simplified as much as possible, so the requirements remain minimal.

Specifically, you will need:

- A document proving your identity (Ukrainian passport or other document)

- Proof of residence

- Taxpayer identification number (RNOKPP)

- Medical certificate

Important note: During martial law, a medical certificate is not required, which significantly simplifies the renewal process.

If all documents are submitted and the data is verified in the registry, a new license is issued on the day of application, taking into account the driver’s current information.

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We remind you! Ukrainians are actively buying used cars from abroad that are up to 5 years old—they account for 20% of the market. Read about which engine types are the most popular, how many cars were imported in 2026, and what drivers are choosing.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

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