New EU rules on Ukrainian driving documents

New temporary EU rules will ensure that people fleeing Ukraine can continue to use their Ukrainian driving licence, without needing to exchange it for an EU driving licence or to sit a new driving test.

The new Regulation sets specific rules on expired, lost and stolen Ukrainian driving licences to reduce the administrative burden for those residing in the EU under the temporary protection regime, following Russia’s war of aggression. Digital driving licences issued by Ukraine (DIIA) may also be recognised once verification tools have been made available and deployed by Ukraine.

The measures also ease requirements for professional drivers, allowing them to work in the EU during the period of temporary protection and to help export Ukrainian goods and facilitate bilateral talks in the context of the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes.

Ukrainian lorry and bus drivers will be able to have their professional qualification, obtained in Ukraine, temporarily recognised in the EU following a short training course and a test.

The new rules were proposed by the European Commission on 21 June 2022. Following their adoption by the Parliament last week and by the Council 18 July, they will enter into force five days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

More information

Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down specific and temporary measures, in view of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, concerning driver documents issued by Ukraine in accordance with its legislation – final text.

Source: European Commission