Foreigners in Ukraine can use international driving licences. However, after the residence permit is issued, a Ukrainian licence is required. Find out how a foreigner can get a driving licence in Ukraine and what documents are required

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Foreigners residing outside their home country must obtain a driver's license valid in the country of their residence. In Europe, foreigners are strictly controlled when it comes to driving, ranging from issuing licenses to fines for minor violations. But what about Ukraine? If the foreigners living in Ukraine want to get a driver's license, what steps must they take?

Read about the conditions for acquiring a driving certificate in Ukraine and documents need to be prepared.

Foreigners have the right to use international driving licenses while in Ukraine. However, once registered, they must obtain a Ukrainian driving card. Consider that obtaining a new certificate in Ukraine does not oblige a person to abandon the international document – foreigners can use both certificates.

It is possible to obtain a driver's license only if a person permanently resides in Ukraine and has registration documents – a temporary or permanent residence permit.

Action algorithm for obtaining a driver's license

Getting the license is not difficult if you prepare carefully and follow the steps. Both foreigners and Ukrainians are required to complete the process, which includes attending a driving school and passing examinations. In addition to obtaining a residence permit, foreigners must do the following:

• Undergo a medical examination and receive a relevant certificate (083/o form);
• Successfully complete the driving school program;
• Pass theoretical and practical exams.

Please note that the whole process is time-consuming, as studying at a driving school can take up to three months.

But those who have a European license will spend less time. They only need to get a medical certificate and pass exams at the service center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. And they don't need to study at a driving school.

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List of required documents

Before entering the driving school, make sure you have the following documents:

• Residence permit (a photocopy is required for admission to school);
• Three photos measuring 3.5x4.5 cm;
• Medical certificate.

Issuance of driving license to foreigners serving in the Armed Forces

On March 17, 2023, the Ministry of Internal Affairs announced the simplified procedure for obtaining rights for foreigners serving in the Armed Forces. So, defenders should only have a passport and a military identity card.

Therefore, such foreigners do not need to receive a residence permit in Ukraine. However, they must go through a driving school and pass exams. Note that it is possible to exchange an international driver's license for a Ukrainian one without attending a driving school.

List of the documents for defenders:

• Passport or other identity document;
• Military ID;
• A certificate from the military unit the person have the contract with;
• Medical certificate.

Important! Citizens of Italy, Spain, Turkey, and the UAE can exchange their license without passing exams. This is possible as these countries are signatories of the bilateral agreement on mutual recognition of driver's licenses.

Recently, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine proposed to strengthen entry rules for foreigners. Find out new entry requirements according to the new draft law, which may enter into force in the near future.

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