What do I need to drive in Ukraine? Information for foreigners

Driving a car in Ukraine requires compliance with a number of mandatory rules and the availability of certain documents. It is important for foreign citizens to take into account the peculiarities of the legislation, as well as be prepared for the conditions of martial law, which may affect road safety. Find out what documents are required for legal driving in Ukraine, what insurance is mandatory, and how to ensure safety on the road

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Under martial law in Ukraine, compliance with traffic rules and the availability of all necessary documents are particularly important. This is not only a requirement of the law, but also a guarantee of your safety and legal protection. Here is what drivers need to drive a car in Ukraine.

What documents are required for driving in Ukraine?

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

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

❗️ 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 attend a driving school and pass exams.

❗️ Vehicle registration certificate. You must have a vehicle registration certificate (technical passport) confirming your ownership or legal right to use 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.

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Is car insurance mandatory in Ukraine?

Yes, car insurance is mandatory for all drivers, including foreigners. Here are the insurance policies you need to travel in Ukraine:

Compulsory civil liability insurance (OSAGO)

OSAGO covers damage caused to third parties in the event of an accident. Foreign cars in Ukraine must be insured under MTPL if they do not have a valid Green Card.

Green Card

This is an international insurance policy valid in countries participating in the Green Card system. A valid Green Card is required to enter Ukraine in a foreign-registered car.

Voluntary Mini-HULL insurance

Mini-HULL provides additional protection, covering damage to your car in the event of an accident, theft or other risks, including military risks, which is very relevant given the situation in Ukraine. Mini-HULL is optional, but recommended to increase your level of protection.

To quickly take out Mini-HULL insurance, simply follow this link. On the Visit Ukraine portal, you can find this type of insurance, which includes coverage for the consequences of military operations.

What else should you know?

Traffic rules in Ukraine

▪️ Speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h outside built-up areas, 130 km/h on motorways

▪️ Use of headlights: from 1 October to 1 May, dipped headlights or daytime running lights must be switched on outside built-up areas.

▪️ Seat belts: mandatory for all passengers, both in the front and rear seats.

Parking

There are paid parking zones in large cities. Payment is made via parking meters or mobile apps. Currently, there are no toll roads in Ukraine, but fines are imposed for illegal parking.

Traffic cameras

In Ukraine, automatic traffic violation cameras are widely used, especially in cities and on major highways. Fines for speeding and other violations can be issued automatically.

A complete list of camera locations can be found on the website of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine at this link.

Safety recommendations

Driving at night: Ukraine is currently under martial law, so a night-time curfew is in place in all regions except Zakarpattia Oblast, prohibiting citizens from moving around the streets. However, if you have a permit, be extra careful, use your headlights and stick to the speed limit.

Travel in regions with restrictions: under martial law, some restrictions may apply. Before travelling, check with the local military authorities for the latest information on the situation in the region.

Remember that travelling to Ukraine requires a careful approach to your health, so before travelling, you should insure your health against military risks!

Why should you take out car insurance in advance?

Taking out car insurance before entering Ukraine or immediately upon arrival provides:

🔻 Legality of stay: without valid insurance, driving a car in Ukraine is illegal.

🔻 Financial protection: in the event of an accident, insurance covers damages, which is especially important in an unfamiliar country.

🔻 Confidence and peace of mind: knowing that you are protected, you can focus on your trip and enjoy your journey.

Don't forget to purchase a Mini Hull insurance policy for increased protection on the roads of Ukraine! You can take out insurance on the Visit Ukraine portal in just a few minutes.

Get your policy and travel worry-free!

Reminder! Travelling around Ukraine in your own car is a convenient and flexible way to see the country. However, to avoid misunderstandings, it is important to know the rules for temporary importation of vehicles, the terms of stay and the necessary documents. Find out how long foreigners can stay in Ukraine in their own car.

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 – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

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;

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