Updated April 22, 2026
Driving License in Ukraine for Expats
Yes, for Duration of legal stay with IDP. After that, you must convert to a Ukraine license. The official test is only in Ukrainian, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: Ukraine Driving License for Expats
- Test Authority
- HSC MIA — Головний сервісний центр МВС (Main Service Center of MIA)
- Official Test Language
- Ukrainian
- Grace Period
- Duration of legal stay 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
- UAH 3,000-8,000 (~$75-200 USD)
Eligibility by Nationality
EU/EEA Citizens
Must convert license. No special EU exemptions.
US/UK Citizens
USA/UK: Can use with IDP during legal stay. Exchange agreements very limited.
Other Non-EU Citizens
Can use foreign license with IDP for duration of legal stay. Exchange very limited.
Students
Can use foreign license with IDP during studies.
Required Documents
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Visa or residence permit
- ✓Original foreign license
- ✓Medical certificate (medical commission)
- ✓Notarized translation of license
- ✓Passport photos
Costs Breakdown
- Conversion/Exam Fee
- UAH 500-1,000 (~$12-25 USD)
- Medical Exam
- UAH 1,000-2,500 (~$25-60 USD)
- Translation
- UAH 1,000-2,000 (~$25-50 USD) notarized
- Total Estimated
- UAH 3,000-8,000 (~$75-200 USD)
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 5
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 5
EU/EEA countries (under EU association agreement provisions)South KoreaTurkeyKuwaitUAE
No Agreement (Full Test Required): USA, UK, Canada, Australia, most Asian countries - full test required
Tips for Expats in Ukraine
- Test ONLY in Ukrainian - practice in English is essential
- Limited exchange agreements - most foreigners need full test
- Medical commission (medkomisiia) required from authorized clinic
- Some service centers may have limited availability due to ongoing conflict
- Notarized translation required for all foreign documents
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Ukrainian driving test in English?
No, the official theory test is only available in Ukrainian. Practice with AutoviaTest in English to learn the rules before taking the official test.
Can I exchange my foreign license in Ukraine?
Exchange agreements are very limited. Most foreigners can use their foreign license with an IDP during their legal stay, but full testing may be required for permanent conversion.
Are all service centers operational?
Due to the ongoing conflict, some service centers in certain regions may have limited availability. Check with the Main Service Center (HSC) for current operational status in your area.
What is the medical commission?
Ukraine requires a medical commission (medkomisiia) from an authorized medical facility. This includes vision, hearing, and general health checks.