In which countries do Ukrainians need an international driving licence: a list

The Ukrainian national driving licence is recognised in many countries, but there are several dozen states that require an international sample of the document

Issuing a Green Card policy for travelling abroad by car

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When planning a road trip abroad, it is important to know whether your Ukrainian national driving licence is recognised in the chosen country or whether you need an international version. Below, we'll look at where ordinary ‘rights’ are valid, and where an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to drive legally.

Where the Ukrainian licence is valid

In accordance with the provisions of the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Ukrainian national driving licences are recognised in many countries around the world. The list includes 89 countries, including most of the European Union. In these countries, you can safely drive a car by presenting the same document used in Ukraine. The full list of such countries is available on the portal of the Main Service Centre of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Which countries require an International Driving Permit?

There are 44 countries in which Ukrainians may be refused a car rental or held liable during road traffic control without an IHD. Even if some companies are loyal to ordinary driving licences, police officers may demand an ILD.

The list of countries where MWP is required:

Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Canada, Cyprus, Congo, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Guatemala, Haiti, India, Ireland, Iceland, Jordan, Lesotho, Lao People's Democratic Republic, and the United States, Lebanon, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Malta, Namibia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Republic of Sierra Leone, Rwanda, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Syrian Arab Republic, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, United States of America and Japan.

How to get an International Driving Permit?

An ILD (International Driving Permit, sometimes referred to as an ILD) is issued on the basis of a valid national driving licence. The procedure is carried out at the service centres of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and takes a little time.

The validity of a temporary international driving permit is up to three years, but no longer than the validity of your main driving licence.

Documents required for issuing a temporary international driving permit:

🔻 Original and copy of your national driving licence.

🔻 Passport of a citizen of Ukraine (if you have an ID card, you will additionally need a certificate of residence registration).

🔻 Foreign passport.

🔻 Photo 3.5×4.5 cm (on matte paper).

🔻 Receipt of payment of the administrative fee.

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What other documents are required for legal driving abroad?

If you are planning to travel by your own or rented car, in addition to a driver's licence (national or international), you should have with you

1. A vehicle registration certificate. It confirms the ownership and technical characteristics of the car.

2. A notarised power of attorney. It is necessary if the car you are driving is not registered in your name.

3. Green Card insurance. This is an international policy that covers the driver's liability in the event of an accident abroad.

Without a valid Green Card, the car will not be allowed to cross the border.

Insurance is required in almost all countries neighbouring Ukraine, as well as in many European countries.

Remember that the Green Card becomes valid no earlier than 00:00 the day after the purchase (unless you choose another date). Therefore, apply for it at least one day before departure.

Planning a trip to Ukraine by car? Check out the key differences in the traffic rules of Ukraine and Europe: speed limits, pedestrian priority, alcohol content, lighting requirements and car insurance. Be prepared for your trip and ensure your safety on Ukrainian roads!

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

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