Foreigners in Ukraine Can Now Take Driving Theory Tests in English, While All Applicants Face New Photo Requirements

Overhaul of Ukraine's Driver's License Procedures

According to Главком: Ukraine's Ministry of Internal Affairs has unveiled a draft order introducing major changes to how driver's licenses are obtained. The proposal, now open for public feedback on the ministry's website, aims to make exams more accessible for foreigners and to strengthen candidate identification processes.

Under the new rules, non-citizens and stateless individuals will be allowed to take the theoretical portion of the driving test in English-a shift from the previous policy where testing was conducted exclusively in Ukrainian. This reform is designed to streamline the licensing process for international applicants living in or visiting Ukraine.

Candidate Identification Upgrades

Additionally, every candidate will now be photographed immediately before both the theoretical and practical exams. This photo-based identification step is intended to verify identity and curb fraud. If a candidate's digital facial image is not already in the Ministry's central database, a photo will be taken on the spot and instantly uploaded into the system.

The draft order is currently undergoing public consultation, after which it will be reviewed and approved by relevant ministries. Notably, Ukraine's traffic control system became fully digital in 2026, a change that will also affect the driver's license issuance process.

Recently, police in the Chernivtsi region uncovered a cheating ring that used spy equipment to help candidates pass driving exams. Suspects in that scheme have already been formally charged.

Overall, these proposed updates represent a significant step toward modernizing the licensing system and increasing its transparency. By simplifying the process for foreign nationals, the changes could make Ukraine a more attractive destination for international residents. At the same time, better identification measures and the adoption of digital technologies in traffic oversight are expected to reduce fraud and improve road safety across the country.