Driving License in Italy for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in Italy with a foreign license?
Yes, for 1 year from residency. After that, you must convert to a Italy license. The official test is only in Italian, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: Italy Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | Motorizzazione (Ministero delle Infrastrutture e dei Trasporti) |
| Official Test Language | Italian |
| Grace Period | 1 year from residency |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Required |
| Total Cost | 200-300โฌ (exchange) or 1,500-2,500โฌ (full test) |
| Processing Time | 2-3 months |
Official test only in Italian?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
๐ฎ๐น Practice Italy Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
๐ช๐บ EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely. Optional exchange possible.
๐บ๐ธ๐ฌ๐ง US/UK Citizens
No agreement with USA. UK licenses currently have limited recognition post-Brexit.
๐ Other Non-EU Citizens
Must convert within 1 year of residency. Requirements depend on agreements.
๐ Students
Can use foreign license during studies if valid IDP. Must convert if staying.
License Exchange Agreements
โ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, San Marino, Vatican City, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Morocco, Moldova, Philippines, Algeria, Tunisia
โ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
USA, UK, Canada, Australia - must take full tests
Required Documents
- โValid passport
- โCodice fiscale
- โResidency certificate
- โOriginal foreign license
- โOfficial translation
- โMedical certificate
- โPassport photos
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | 100โฌ approximately |
| Medical Exam | 50-80โฌ |
| Translation | 50-100โฌ |
| Total Estimated | 200-300โฌ (exchange) or 1,500-2,500โฌ (full test) |
Tips for Expats in Italy
- ๐กTest is ONLY in Italian - practice in English with AutoviaTest
- ๐กZTL zones can result in expensive fines for tourists
- ๐กCodice fiscale required before applying
- ๐กConsider "privatista" option for self-study
- ๐กSome cities have English-speaking driving instructors
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Italian driving test in English?
What is a codice fiscale?
Can I drive in Italy with a US license?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your Italy driving test in English.