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Driving License in λνλ―Όκ΅ for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in λνλ―Όκ΅ with a foreign license?
Yes, for IDP valid for 1 year. After that, you must convert to a λνλ―Όκ΅ license. Good news: the official test is available in English.
Key Facts: λνλ―Όκ΅ Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | KOROAD (Korea Road Traffic Authority (λλ‘κ΅ν΅κ³΅λ¨)) |
| Official Test Language | Korean, English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Indonesian, Cambodian, Russian, Japanese |
| Grace Period | IDP valid for 1 year |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Not for exchange |
| Medical Exam | Required |
| Total Cost | KRW 25,000-50,000 (exchange with test) or KRW 500,000-800,000 (driving school) |
| Processing Time | 1-2 days (same day possible) |
Eligibility by Nationality
πͺπΊ EU/EEA Citizens
Can exchange with written test only if license held for 1+ year.
πΊπΈπ¬π§ US/UK Citizens
USA/UK: Can exchange with written test only. Relatively straightforward process.
π Other Non-EU Citizens
Can exchange with written test only if license held for 1+ year. Practical test waived for many countries.
π Students
Can use IDP during studies. Can apply for Korean license with ARC.
License Exchange Agreements
β Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
Most countries can exchange with written test only, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, EU/EEA countries, Japan, China
β No Agreement (Full Test Required)
Very few countries have no exchange path
Required Documents
- βARC (Alien Registration Card)
- βOriginal foreign license (held 1+ year)
- βValid passport
- βPassport photos
- βHealth check certificate
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | KRW 7,500 (written test) + KRW 7,500 (license fee) |
| Medical Exam | KRW 5,000-10,000 |
| Translation | Not required if license in English |
| Total Estimated | KRW 25,000-50,000 (exchange with test) or KRW 500,000-800,000 (driving school) |
Tips for Expats in λνλ―Όκ΅
- π‘Written test available in ENGLISH - major advantage for expats
- π‘Relatively easy exchange process compared to most countries
- π‘Very strict DUI laws - 0.03% BAC limit
- π‘ARC (Alien Registration Card) required before applying
- π‘Same-day license issuance possible
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Korean driving test in English?
Yes! The written theory test is available in English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, and several other languages. This makes South Korea one of the more accessible countries for foreign license exchange.
Do I need to take a practical driving test?
In most cases, no. If you have a valid foreign license held for 1+ year, you only need to pass the written test. The practical test is waived for exchanges from most countries.
What is an ARC and do I need one?
ARC (Alien Registration Card) is your foreign resident ID in South Korea. You must have one to apply for a Korean driving license. It is issued by immigration when you register as a resident.
How strict are DUI laws in South Korea?
Very strict. The legal BAC limit is 0.03%, much lower than most Western countries. Penalties include heavy fines, license suspension, and potential imprisonment.
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your λνλ―Όκ΅ driving test in English.