Exploring Ukraine by Car in 2025: What to Expect on the Road?

Road trips in Ukraine are a great way to feel free, see diverse landscapes, and discover new routes. In 2025, such trips will become even more accessible and convenient, but they require careful preparation. Learn more about safety, documents, roads, and all the nuances of travelling by car in Ukraine

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Travelling around Ukraine by car is not just about getting from one city to another, but a real adventure with picturesque landscapes, gastronomic discoveries and new acquaintances. In 2025, such trips remain popular among Ukrainians and foreigners, but require careful preparation.

Which routes to choose, how to prepare your car and what to pay attention to — we will tell you more in this article.

Rules for entering Ukraine by car with foreign number plates in 2025 — follow the link.

Is it safe to explore Ukraine by car in 2025?

In general, most regions of Ukraine remain safe for car travel. However, it is worth considering the presence of checkpoints, especially at the entrances to large cities and near border areas. It is recommended to avoid travelling to the southern, eastern and frontline regions, where the situation may change.

When choosing a route, give preference to major motorways and tourist destinations, where road information is regularly updated and emergency services are available.

To travel with confidence, purchase travel medical insurance that includes war risk coverage — available on the Visit Ukraine website.

Driving in Ukraine as a foreigner: road conditions in Ukraine 2025

General road quality in different regions

The main motorways in Ukraine are in good condition, but be prepared for repairs and temporary restrictions. Mountain roads, for example in the Carpathians, are often narrow and winding, and rural roads may have gravel or uneven surfaces. Before travelling, be sure to check the road conditions on maps or local tourist websites.

About the top 5 services for travelling in Ukraine that every foreigner needs — read here.

Speed limits and road signs

The following restrictions apply in Ukraine: in built-up areas — up to 50 km/h, outside built-up areas — 90 km/h, on motorways — up to 130 km/h. Driving in Ukraine can seem aggressive, especially in large cities, so always keep a safe distance.

Traffic rules in Ukraine are similar to those in Europe, but there are some differences: for example, it is mandatory to use low beam headlights outside built-up areas.

Safe regions of Ukraine for foreigners — follow the link.

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Documents and requirements for driving in Ukraine

– Driving licence. Foreigners can drive a car in Ukraine if they have a valid driving licence:

– A national licence, if it contains information in Latin characters and complies with the requirements of the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.

– An international driving permit (IDP), if the national licence does not meet the above requirements.

– If you plan to stay in Ukraine for a long time, it is recommended to exchange your foreign licence for a Ukrainian one. To do this, you need to take lessons at a driving school and pass exams.

– Vehicle registration certificate. You must have a vehicle registration certificate (registration certificate) confirming ownership or legal use of the vehicle.

– Passport and entry documents. Foreign citizens must have a foreign passport and, if necessary, a visa or documents confirming visa-free entry.

– Power of attorney to drive a car. If you are driving a car that does not belong to you, you must have a notarised power of attorney from the owner of the vehicle.

Car insurance is mandatory. If you are entering the country in a foreign-registered car, you will need a Green Card.

In addition to compulsory insurance, you may want to consider purchasing Mini Casco, a cost-effective way to protect your car from damage.

Car rental in Ukraine: what you need to know

Foreigners can easily rent a car in Ukraine if they have a valid driver's licence and passport.

When choosing a car, consider your route: for mountain trips, it is better to take a crossover or SUV, and for city trips, a compact car.

How to enter Ukraine in a foreign car as a foreigner — find out here.

You can book a car online in just a few clicks through Visit Ukraine — with transparent prices and verified service providers.

Useful tips for travelling around Ukraine by car

Parking in large cities is mostly paid, especially in the centre. There are petrol stations on almost all major roads, but in remote areas it is better to fill up in advance.

Plan your route taking into account stops in tourist cities where you can rest and spend the night. There is a wide choice of hotels and guest houses in Ukraine.

Travelling by car means freedom, but don't forget about medical insurance covering military risks to be protected in any region.

Checklist for your Ukraine road trip

To ensure that your road trip in Ukraine is comfortable and safe, it is important to prepare in advance. Below is a detailed checklist to help you remember everything.

– Driving licence. Make sure that your licence is valid and complies with Ukrainian law. Foreign tourists should have an international driving licence.

– Insurance (compulsory and mini comprehensive). Without a valid Green Card, driving a foreign car in Ukraine is prohibited. For additional protection, we recommend taking out mini comprehensive insurance, which covers part of the possible damage to the car, for example, in collisions or natural disasters.

– Medical insurance. An indispensable document for your safety. Insurance covering military risks is particularly relevant, as it protects against unforeseen expenses in the event of injury or other emergencies.

– Maps or a navigation device. Update your navigation apps or prepare offline maps. Remote areas may have poor mobile internet coverage, so download your route in advance.

– Extra fuel and first aid kit. Fill up your tank before long journeys, especially if you are planning to travel to the mountains or countryside. Your first aid kit should contain everything you need to provide first aid: bandages, antiseptics, painkillers, allergy medication, etc.

– Backup communication devices. Take a power bank, charging cables and, if possible, a spare phone or walkie-talkie with you.

– Cash and bank cards. Contactless payments are accepted in many places, but you may need cash in some villages or car parks.

– Car repair kit. A jack, tow rope, pump and tool kit can save you in unexpected situations.

By preparing everything on this list, you will minimise risks, save time and be able to fully enjoy the Ukrainian landscapes and hospitality.

To avoid stress, plan your route carefully and book your accommodation in advance.

Ready to hit the road?

Visit Ukraine will help you rent a car, arrange insurance and prepare for a safe and unforgettable trip.

Reminder! Travelling to Ukraine by car in 2025 is possible because, despite the war, the country continues to welcome foreign visitors. Useful tips for those planning to travel to Ukraine from abroad by car can be found here.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – health insurance with coverage of war risks;

Visit Ukraine Mini Hull Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Osago – compulsory motor third party liability insurance for cars with Ukrainian registration;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

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