The Main Service Centre of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVS) explained that in Ukraine during martial law it is permitted to drive a vehicle with an expired first driver’s licence issued for two years. This relaxation will be in force for the duration of martial law and for one year after its termination or repeal.
Who the temporary rule applies to
The rule applies exclusively to the first driver’s licence issued for a two-year period and does not cover other expired documents. Although it is temporarily permitted to drive, such licences are considered invalid and must be exchanged.
The exception will apply only for the period of martial law and for one year after its termination or repeal, in accordance with Cabinet of Ministers resolution No. 184 of 3 March 2022.
How to exchange an expired licence
Documents can be exchanged online via the Diia app or the Driver’s Cabinet if the licence is displayed in the electronic system, or by visiting any MVS service centre regardless of place of registration. For the exchange you will need the driver’s licence, a passport or ID card showing place of residence, and the tax identification number.
Before visiting a service centre you must register via the E-appointment system or a self-service terminal. The approximate cost of the service is 650 UAH excluding the bank fee.
Conditions for retaking exams
If, during the two years of using the first licence, a driver committed three or more violations of the road traffic rules (PDR), the document may be exchanged only after successfully passing the theoretical and practical exams. A new licence is issued for either 5 or 15 years.
All procedures and lists of required documents are determined by the MVS service centres.
