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Driving License in Turkey for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in Turkey with a foreign license?
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) (Emniyet Genel Müdürlüğü - Trafik Denetleme Şube Müdürlüğü) |
| Official Test Language | Turkish |
| Grace Period | 6 months with IDP |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Required |
| Total Cost | TRY 1,500-3,000 |
| Processing Time | 2-4 weeks |
Official test only in Turkish?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
🇹🇷 Practice Turkey Test in EnglishEligibility 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.
License Exchange Agreements
✅ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
Limited bilateral agreements
❌ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
Most countries - check current bilateral agreement status
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 1,500-3,000 |
| Medical Exam | Included in health report fee |
| Translation | TRY 500-1,000 (notarized) |
| Total Estimated | TRY 1,500-3,000 |
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
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Turkish driving test in English?
No, the official test is only available in Turkish. Practice with AutoviaTest in English to learn the rules before taking the official test.
What documents need to be notarized?
Your foreign driving license must be translated by a sworn translator and notarized (noter tasdikli). This is a standard requirement for all foreign documents used in Turkish official processes.
Can I use my foreign license in Turkey?
You can drive with your foreign license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to 6 months. After that, you must obtain a Turkish license.
Where do I get the health report?
The health report must be obtained from a government hospital (devlet hastanesi). Private hospital reports are typically not accepted for license applications.
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your Turkey driving test in English.