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Turkish Driving Licence Guide
Getting a Turkish
Driving Licence (2026)
How to exchange your foreign licence for a Turkish one — documents, costs, and whether you need to retake the test.
Quick Answer
Many foreign nationals can exchange their home country licence for a Turkish one without retaking tests — this depends on bilateral agreements. The process requires a residence permit, medical certificate, sworn translation of your licence, and application at the local Traffic Directorate. Total cost: €80–220. Most EU and UK licences qualify for direct exchange.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Check if your country has a licence exchange agreement
Turkey has bilateral agreements with many EU/EEA countries, UK, and others allowing licence exchange without re-taking tests. Check with the Turkish Traffic Police (EGM) or your local traffic directorate (trafik müdürlüğü).
Get a medical certificate (ehliyet sağlık raporu)
Required for all applicants. A basic medical check at an approved clinic. Takes 30–60 minutes. Valid for 2 years.
Get a sworn translation of your foreign licence
Your current licence must be translated by a certified sworn translator (yeminli tercüman). Cost: €50–150.
Gather documents
Residence permit (ikamet) or passport, Turkish tax number, translated licence, medical certificate, biometric photos, and application form.
Apply at the traffic directorate
Apply in person at your local trafik müdürlüğü. Bring all documents. If your country has an exchange agreement, you may receive the licence on the same day or within a few days.
Take theory and/or practical test (if required)
If your country doesn't have an exchange agreement with Turkey, you'll need to pass the theory test (multiple choice, available in some languages) and possibly the driving test.
Costs
Turkish Driving Licence — Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries can exchange their licence without a test in Turkey?
Turkey has licence exchange agreements with EU member states, the UK, and several other countries. The agreements typically allow direct exchange without retaking theory or practical tests. However, agreements change — confirm current status with the Turkish Traffic Directorate (EGM) before applying.
Do I need a residence permit to get a Turkish driving licence?
Yes. You generally need a valid Turkish residence permit (ikamet) to apply for a Turkish driving licence. The licence ties to your residency status. Short-term residence permits are sufficient.
Can I keep my home country licence after getting a Turkish one?
When Turkey issues you a licence via exchange, your home country licence is typically surrendered to Turkish authorities (who may return it stamped 'exchanged'). Check with your home country's licensing authority about reactivating your original licence if you later return.
How long does the Turkish driving licence last?
Turkish driving licences (Category B — standard car) are issued for 10 years for drivers under 60, and for shorter periods for older drivers. Renewal requires a medical examination.
Is the theory test available in English?
The official Turkish theory test is in Turkish. Some traffic directorates, particularly in expat-heavy cities like Antalya and Istanbul, may have test versions in English or German. If you need the test in English, contact your local trafik müdürlüğü to confirm availability.