Do you need to have an international driving license in order to drive car abroad?

An international driving license is required in few countries in the world, such as the United States, Japan, Canada, Australia etc. Other countries, particularly most EU member states, recognise the Ukrainian driving license. Exceptions are: Ireland, Cyprus, Malta.

In essence, an international driving license is a translation of a national driving license certified by the state authorities, which is issued within 5 business days from the date of submission of the necessary documents. Therefore, if desired and for the convenience of communication with the patrol police abroad, it can be ordered at the service centers of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

The package of documents:

- original and copy of the national driving license;

- passport of a citizen of Ukraine (in case of providing an ID card, also a certificate of registration of the person's place of residence)

- passport of a citizen of Ukraine for traveling abroad;

- a 3.5×4.5 cm photo on matte paper;

- payment document (receipt) certifying fee payment for the administrative service.

The validity of the international driving license is 3 years. The original national driving license will not be withdrawn. 

Important!

The international driving license is not valid without the national driving license.

A complete list of countries that require an international driving license can be found here.

Important!

You have a right to temporarily drive car abroad on the basis of your national driving license. The term of such right's application differs depending on the country of your stay. We recommend checking the term of such right's application in the official sources of the relevant country of stay.