Updated April 22, 2026
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
GermanyItalySpainSouth KoreaJapanAzerbaijanGeorgiaTRNC (Northern Cyprus)AlbaniaBosnia and HerzegovinaKosovoMoldova
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
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.