Sometimes when you’re new to a country a task like getting your driver’s license can make you feel like you’re 16 years old again trying to pass your driver’s test. Here’s an overview of the process of getting your driver’s license in Estonia.
In Estonia, foreigners are allowed to drive if they have a valid international driving permit or a driving license that is written in the Roman alphabet and issued in their home country. The driving license must have a photo of the holder. If the driving license is not written in the Roman alphabet, it must be accompanied by an international driving permit. The driver must carry these documents at all times when driving.
Foreigners who have a temporary right of residence in Estonia can use their foreign driving license for up to twelve months from the date of registering their place of residence. After this period, they must exchange their foreign driving license for an Estonian one. To do this, they must pass a theory test and a driving test in Estonia. However, if the foreign driving license was issued in a country that has a mutual recognition agreement with Estonia, the driving test may not be required.
Foreigners who have a long-term right of residence or who have obtained Estonian citizenship must exchange their foreign driving license for an Estonian one within twelve months of obtaining the right of residence or citizenship. They must also pass a theory test and a driving test in Estonia, unless the foreign driving license was issued in a country that has a mutual recognition agreement with Estonia.
There are no different requirements based on the city, state, or region in which the foreigner lives in Estonia. The rules are the same throughout the country.
