Driving License in Turkey for Expats
Yes, for 6 months with IDP. After that, you must convert to a Turkey license. The official test is only in Turkish, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: Turkey Driving License for Expats
- Test Authority
- EGM — Emniyet Genel Müdürlüğü - Trafik Denetleme Şube Müdürlüğü
- Official Test Language
- Turkish
- Grace Period
- 6 months with IDP
- Processing Time
- 2-4 weeks
- Theory Test Required
- Yes (if no exchange agreement)
- Practical Test Required
- Yes (if no exchange agreement)
- Medical Exam
- Required
- Total Cost
- TRY 3,500-8,500 (~$100-240 USD)
Eligibility by Nationality
EU/EEA Citizens
Must convert license. No special EU exemptions.
US/UK Citizens
USA/UK: Can use with IDP for 6 months. Conversion requires checking bilateral agreements.
Other Non-EU Citizens
Can use foreign license with IDP for 6 months. Must convert for long-term stay.
Students
Can use foreign license with IDP during studies.
Required Documents
- ✓Residence permit (ikamet)
- ✓Notarized translation of foreign license
- ✓Health report from government hospital
- ✓Biometric passport photos
- ✓Valid passport
Costs Breakdown
- Conversion/Exam Fee
- TRY 2,000-5,000 (~$55-140 USD)
- Medical Exam
- TRY 500-1,500 (~$14-42 USD)
- Translation
- TRY 1,000-2,000 (~$28-55 USD) notarized
- Total Estimated
- TRY 3,500-8,500 (~$100-240 USD)
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 12
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 12
No Agreement (Full Test Required): USA, UK, Canada, Australia, most EU countries - full test required
Tips for Expats in Turkey
- Test ONLY in Turkish - practice in English is essential
- Health report from GOVERNMENT hospital required (private not accepted)
- Notarized translation (noter tasdikli tercüme) required for all documents
- Process can be bureaucratic - allow extra time
- Residence permit (ikamet) required before applying
From a recent expat graduate
A real story from someone who got their licence as a foreigner
“I find the service invaluable. It helped me immensely and I am impressed by the format and content. First class!”I have now passed my driving theory test. The course and information was great and very helpful. The reason I had to take the test is because I am living in Chile which does not recognise the driver licence of my mother country.