Driving Licence in Türkiye: Exchange a Foreign Licence

If you live in Türkiye and plan to drive, your home-country licence will not work indefinitely. Residents are expected to convert it into a Turkish licence, and the process is straightforward when the documents are ready.

How long can you drive on a foreign licence in Türkiye?

Tourists can generally drive on a valid foreign licence for a limited visit. Once you hold a residence permit, the period is commonly cited as 6 months from the residence permit start date, after which you should exchange the licence for a Turkish one. The exact rules can change and may depend on the issuing country, so confirm the current position with the directorate before the deadline.

Which office handles the exchange?

Licence exchange is handled by the Population and Citizenship Affairs directorate (Nüfus ve Vatandaşlık İşleri) in your province. Appointments are usually booked through e-Devlet or the directorate's system, and your residence permit information is needed to register.

What documents are typically needed?

• The original foreign driving licence and a notarised Turkish translation.
• Your residence permit and passport.
• A health report (sağlık raporu) from an authorised clinic or hospital.
• Your blood group information.
• Biometric photographs.
• Proof that the exchange fee was paid at a tax office or online.

Requirements can differ by licence category and issuing country, and the directorate may ask for extra papers.

How does the exchange process work?

1. Translate and notarise your licence.
2. Get the health report from an authorised clinic.
3. Pay the fee at the tax office or online and keep the receipt.
4. Book the Nüfus appointment and submit the file.
5. Collect the Turkish licence, which may be issued after a processing period.

What if the licence cannot be exchanged?

Some foreign licences cannot be exchanged directly. In that case the usual route is to attend a licensed driving school, pass the theory and driving exams, and then receive a Turkish licence. The need for a course depends on your licence and the directorate's decision, so we check your case early.

Does it matter if you are a student or family member?

The licence rules attach to your residence permit, whatever its type: short-term, student or family. If your permit is renewed or changes category, the dates relating to your licence may also change, so keep your permit documents with you.

How much does it cost?

The exchange fee, health report and translation charges are set by the authorities and providers and can change, so we do not quote fixed amounts. We tell you each cost in writing before you pay.

How does DXB.IST help?

We begin with a free consultation and check whether your licence is likely to be exchangeable and how much time remains. We arrange the certified translation, book the health report appointment, secure the Nüfus appointment and accompany you to each step. We work with licensed lawyers and approved translation centres. We are not a government body and cannot guarantee that a licence will be exchanged. Our travel desk can also arrange transport and relocation support.