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Driving License in Estonia for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in Estonia with a foreign license?
Yes, for 12 months from residency. After that, you must convert to a Estonia license. The official test is only in Estonian, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: Estonia Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | Transpordiamet (Transpordiamet (Estonian Transport Administration)) |
| Official Test Language | Estonian, Russian (some centers) |
| Grace Period | 12 months from residency |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Required |
| Total Cost | €50-100 (exchange) or €1,000-1,500 (full test) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 weeks |
Official test only in Estonian?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
🇪🇪 Practice Estonia Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
🇪🇺 EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely. No exchange required.
🇺🇸🇬🇧 US/UK Citizens
USA/UK: Must take full test. No direct exchange agreement.
🌍 Other Non-EU Citizens
Must exchange within 12 months if from a recognized country. Otherwise full test required.
🎓 Students
Can use foreign license during studies with IDP.
License Exchange Agreements
✅ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
EU/EEA countries, Switzerland
❌ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
USA, UK, Canada, Australia - must take full tests
Required Documents
- ✓Estonian ID code
- ✓Valid residence permit
- ✓Original foreign license
- ✓Health check certificate
- ✓Passport photos
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | €26 (theory) + €43 (practical) + €26 (license) |
| Medical Exam | €30-50 |
| Translation | Not usually required |
| Total Estimated | €50-100 (exchange) or €1,000-1,500 (full test) |
Tips for Expats in Estonia
- 💡Very digital-friendly process - Estonia is a leader in e-governance
- 💡Russian-language test option available at some centers
- 💡e-Residency program does NOT grant driving license exchange rights
- 💡Winter driving conditions - studded tires permitted Oct-Apr
- 💡Relatively affordable compared to Scandinavian neighbors
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Estonian driving test in English?
No, the official test is in Estonian. Some test centers offer the test in Russian. Practice with AutoviaTest in English to learn the rules first.
Does Estonian e-Residency help with license exchange?
No, e-Residency is a digital identity for business purposes and does not grant physical residency rights or driving license exchange privileges.
How digital is the license process in Estonia?
Estonia is one of the most digitally advanced countries. Much of the application process can be done online, and the digital ID system streamlines document verification.
Is the Russian-language option widely available?
Russian-language tests are available at some test centers, particularly in areas with larger Russian-speaking populations like Tallinn and Narva.
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your Estonia driving test in English.