Driving License in Italy for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in Italy with a foreign license?
Yes, for 1 year from residency. After that, you must convert to a Italy license. The official test is only in Italian, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: Italy Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | Motorizzazione (Ministero delle Infrastrutture e dei Trasporti) |
| Official Test Language | Italian |
| Grace Period | 1 year from residency |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Required |
| Total Cost | 200-300€ (exchange) or 1,500-2,500€ (full test) |
| Processing Time | 2-3 months |
Official test only in Italian?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
🇮🇹 Practice Italy Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
🇪🇺 EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely. Optional exchange possible.
🇺🇸🇬🇧 US/UK Citizens
No agreement with USA. UK licenses currently have limited recognition post-Brexit.
🌍 Other Non-EU Citizens
Must convert within 1 year of residency. Requirements depend on agreements.
🎓 Students
Can use foreign license during studies if valid IDP. Must convert if staying.
License Exchange Agreements
✅ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, San Marino, Vatican City, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Morocco, Moldova, Philippines, Algeria, Tunisia
❌ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
USA, UK, Canada, Australia - must take full tests
Required Documents
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Codice fiscale
- ✓Residency certificate
- ✓Original foreign license
- ✓Official translation
- ✓Medical certificate
- ✓Passport photos
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | 100€ approximately |
| Medical Exam | 50-80€ |
| Translation | 50-100€ |
| Total Estimated | 200-300€ (exchange) or 1,500-2,500€ (full test) |
Tips for Expats in Italy
- 💡Test is ONLY in Italian - practice in English with AutoviaTest
- 💡ZTL zones can result in expensive fines for tourists
- 💡Codice fiscale required before applying
- 💡Consider "privatista" option for self-study
- 💡Some cities have English-speaking driving instructors
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Italian driving test in English?
What is a codice fiscale?
Can I drive in Italy with a US license?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your Italy driving test in English.