Driving License in ํ๋๋ for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in ํ๋๋ with a foreign license?
Yes, for 2 years from residency registration. After that, you must convert to a ํ๋๋ license. The official test is only in Finnish, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: ํ๋๋ Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | Traficom (Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Liikenne- ja viestintรคvirasto)) |
| Official Test Language | Finnish, Swedish |
| Grace Period | 2 years from residency registration |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Required |
| Total Cost | โฌ80-120 (exchange) or โฌ2,000-3,000 (full test) |
| Processing Time | 2-4 weeks |
Official test only in Finnish?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
๐ซ๐ฎ Practice ํ๋๋ Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
๐ช๐บ EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely. No exchange required.
๐บ๐ธ๐ฌ๐ง US/UK Citizens
USA/UK: No exchange agreement. Must take full theory and practical tests.
๐ Other Non-EU Citizens
Must exchange within 2 years of establishing residency. Exchange agreements with EEA, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan.
๐ Students
Can use foreign license with IDP during studies. Must convert if staying permanently.
License Exchange Agreements
โ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan
โ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
USA, UK, Canada, Australia - must take full theory and practical tests
Required Documents
- โFinnish personal ID (henkilรถtunnus)
- โValid residence permit
- โOriginal foreign license
- โEye test certificate
- โPassport photos
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | โฌ40 |
| Medical Exam | โฌ40-60 (eye test) |
| Translation | Not usually required |
| Total Estimated | โฌ80-120 (exchange) or โฌ2,000-3,000 (full test) |
Tips for Expats in ํ๋๋
- ๐กTheory test ONLY in Finnish or Swedish - practice in English first
- ๐กIncome-based fines (pรคivรคsakko) apply after getting Finnish license - high earners pay more
- ๐กEU licenses valid indefinitely - no exchange needed for EU citizens
- ๐กDark and icy driving conditions - winter tires mandatory Nov-March
- ๐กHenkilรถtunnus (personal ID) required before applying
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Finnish driving test in English?
How long can I drive in Finland with my foreign license?
What are income-based fines in Finland?
Are winter tires mandatory in Finland?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your ํ๋๋ driving test in English.