Driver’s License Requirements for Foreign Nationals in Turkey

Driver’s License Requirements for Foreign Nationals in Turkey (2025 Updated Information)

Foreign nationals residing in Turkey can obtain a Turkish driver’s license if they meet specific requirements or convert their existing license into a Turkish one. Below is a detailed explanation of the process and required documents for obtaining a driver’s license as a foreigner in Turkey.

1. Can Foreign Nationals Get a Driver’s License in Turkey?

Foreign nationals residing in Turkey can enroll in a driving course and obtain a Turkish driver’s license. However, they must meet specific residency, education, and health requirements before applying.

Foreigners can drive in Turkey in two ways:

  • Using Their Foreign Driver’s License:
    • Foreign nationals can use their original driver’s license in Turkey for up to six months.
    • After six months, they must either obtain a Turkish driver’s license or convert their foreign license into a Turkish one.
  • Applying for a New Turkish Driver’s License:
    • Foreign nationals must enroll in a driving course, complete theoretical and practical driving training, and pass the required exams.
    • They can apply for various license categories, such as B-class (passenger cars) or A-class (motorcycles).

2. Requirements for Foreign Nationals to Obtain a Turkish Driver’s License

Foreign nationals must meet the following criteria to apply for a Turkish driver’s license:

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must have a valid residence permit (ikamet tezkeresi)
  • Must have completed at least primary school education and provide a diploma or proof of education
  • Must obtain a medical report confirming their fitness to drive
  • Must have a clean criminal record
  • Must pass the theoretical and practical driving exams

3. Required Documents for Foreigners Applying for a Driver’s License in Turkey

Foreigners must submit the following documents when enrolling in a driving school in Turkey:

Documents Required for Driving School Registration:

  • Copy of passport or valid identification card
  • Copy of residence permit (ikamet tezkeresi)
  • Educational certificate or diploma (translated and notarized if issued abroad)
  • Medical report (can be obtained from a family doctor or an authorized medical institution)
  • Criminal record certificate (available via e-Government system or courthouse)
  • Five biometric photos (must be taken within the last six months)

If the education certificate was obtained outside Turkey, it must be translated into Turkish and notarized or approved by the consulate.

4. Driving Exam and Practical Training for Foreign Nationals

Foreign applicants follow the same process as Turkish citizens when obtaining a driver’s license.

Theoretical Exam (E-Exam):

  • Consists of 50 multiple-choice questions covering traffic rules, first aid, and vehicle mechanics.
  • A minimum of 35 correct answers is required to pass.
  • Those who pass the exam proceed to the practical driving test.

Practical Driving Test:

  • Requires 14 hours of driving practice and 2 hours of simulator training.
  • Conducted on real roads and official exam routes.
  • The exam assesses vehicle control, parking, emergency braking, and maneuvering skills.
  • Candidates who pass receive a driving certificate and can apply for their driver’s license.

5. Converting a Foreign Driver’s License into a Turkish License

If a foreign national already holds a valid driver’s license from their home country, they may convert it into a Turkish license.

Documents Required for License Conversion:

  • Passport or valid identification card
  • Residence permit (ikamet tezkeresi)
  • Original driver’s license (translated and notarized)
  • Medical report verifying eligibility to drive
  • Biometric photo (one copy)
  • Criminal record certificate
  • Receipt of driver’s license fee payment

The validity of foreign licenses is checked by the General Directorate of Security (EGM) before approval.
The conversion process takes place at the Population and Citizenship Affairs Directorate (Nüfus Müdürlüğü).

6. Driver’s License Fees for Foreign Nationals in Turkey (2025)

Foreign nationals applying for a Turkish driver’s license must pay fees for:

  • Driving course enrollment
  • Theoretical and practical exams
  • Driver’s license issuance fees

The total cost varies depending on the license category. For the latest fees, contact us.

Phone: 0506 532 54 00
Address: Arifiye Akademi Sürücü Kursu

Start your application today and obtain your Turkish driver’s license.

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