Ukraine and Latvia have signed an agreement on mutual recognition of driving licences: what does this mean?
Ukraine and Latvia have signed an important agreement on mutual recognition of driving licences, which significantly facilitates the process of exchanging driving licences for citizens of both countries. This agreement greatly simplifies life for drivers. Find out how it will affect citizens of Ukraine and Latvia
The recent agreement between Ukraine and Latvia on mutual recognition and exchange of driving licences is an important step towards improving the mobility of citizens of both countries. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved a draft agreement with the Latvian government that will allow citizens of both countries to exchange their driving licences without having to take any tests.
What does this mean for Ukrainians?
Ukrainians living in Latvia will now be able to exchange their driving licences for Latvian ones without having to take theoretical or practical tests. Previously, in order to obtain a Latvian driving licence, Ukrainians living in Latvia for more than a year had to pass theoretical and practical tests.
However, now, following the conclusion of this agreement, the exchange of Ukrainian driving licences for Latvian ones will take place without these additional requirements.
It should be noted that this agreement does not apply to persons staying in Latvia under the temporary protection programme. They may continue to use their Ukrainian driving licences throughout their stay in Latvia.
The Visit Ukraine portal allows you to insure your car in a matter of minutes. We offer all types of compulsory insurance, including motor third-party liability insurance and a Green Card (for travel abroad). In addition, you can insure your car against military risks with a Mini-Hull insurance.
Planning a trip to Sweden? Make sure you have reliable insurance.
Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.
Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip:
Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;
Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;
Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;
Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;
Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.
© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.
All rights reserved.
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What does this mean for Latvian drivers in Ukraine?
Similar conditions will apply to Latvian citizens residing in Ukraine. They will also be able to exchange their Latvian driving licences for Ukrainian ones without having to take any tests.
By the way, foreign drivers entering Ukraine are required to have compulsory car insurance - a Green Card. However, before travelling to the country, given the current military situation, you should consider insuring not only your vehicle but also your health. On the Visit Ukraine portal, you can take out an insurance policy covering military risks. This insurance package will be a real help in case of emergencies related to the war.
Read also: Rules for foreign cars in Ukraine in 2025: what you need to know
Agreements with other countries
This agreement is part of a broader trend in which Ukrainian driving licences are recognised in several countries around the world without the need to take exams. These countries include Italy, Spain, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. The signing of the agreement with Latvia expands this list, providing Ukrainian citizens with even more opportunities to exchange driving licences abroad.
We remind you! Travelling by car in Ukraine during wartime requires special attention to the safety of your vehicle. When travelling to this country, you should protect your vehicle from military risks. Find out how to take out insurance covering military risks.
Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.
Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip:
Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;
Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;
Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;
Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;
Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.
© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.
All rights reserved.
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