New Rules for Driver’s License Issuance and Exchange Approved by Ukrainian Government

Ukraine Overhauls Driver’s License Rules: New Validity Periods and Medical Check Requirements

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukraine’s government has approved a new procedure for issuing and exchanging driver’s licenses, introducing changes to document validity periods and medical examination rules for drivers. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko announced the updates on his Telegram channel. These reforms align with broader efforts to modernize Ukraine’s transport regulations and improve road safety.

Under the new rules, license validity periods are set as follows:

• Categories A1, A, B, B1, and BE: 15 years;
• Categories C, CE, C1, C1E, D, DE, D1, D1E, and T: 5 years.

Drivers of passenger cars and motorcycles will now need to undergo a medical check only once every 15 years. In contrast, those operating vehicles for passenger or freight transport must pass a medical commission every 5 years. When exchanging licenses, drivers will not have to retake theoretical or practical exams, unless they have been legally stripped of their driving rights by a court decision.

It is also important to note that previously issued licenses remain valid until their printed expiration date. Minister Klymenko stated:

“After the reinstatement of mandatory medical checks during license exchanges, regular health confirmation (every 15 years) will become a key element of driver eligibility. This aligns with European practices and will help enhance road safety.”

Mandatory medical examinations will take effect once the relevant procedures are restored. The new licensing rules aim to boost road safety and bring Ukraine in line with European standards.

These changes reflect Ukraine’s push to adopt European norms, potentially reducing risks associated with driving by shortening license validity for certain categories and enforcing regular health checks. They may also simplify the license exchange process for drivers, increasing convenience and accountability. However, successful implementation will require proper organization and oversight from the relevant authorities.