DVLA Moldovan Licence Exchange. As of August 1st, 2025, Moldova will become eligible to have exchange of reciprocal driving licenses between itself and the United Kingdom (DVLA).
Any eligible citizen of Moldova who has a B category vehicle’s license may exchange this through the DVLA without having to take any theory or practical tests if applying within 5 years of obtaining residency in the UK. This is based on the Memorandum of Understanding between the UK and Moldova concerning the recognition of equivalent standards for the operation of motor vehicles; however, please note that neither motorcycles nor lorries/buses are able to be exchanged using these agreements.
Application Process
Use the GOV.UK tool at gov.uk/exchange-nongb-driving-licence to confirm eligibility and apply online or by post with D1 form.
- Submit valid Moldovan photocard licence, proof of identity, residency (e.g., Biometric Residence Permit), and a new ASP certificate model (introduced December 2025).
- Include certified English translation if needed.
- Pay £43 fee (as of 2026); processing takes 3-6 weeks.
Can You Exchange a Moldovan Driving Licence in the UK?
Short answer: No — you generally cannot directly exchange a Moldovan driving licence for a UK licence.
The UK only allows licence exchange for drivers from “designated countries”, and Moldova is not currently on that list.
This means:
- You cannot skip the UK driving test
- You must apply for a UK licence through the standard process
However, you can still legally drive in the UK for a limited time.
Is Moldova on the DVLA Approved Exchange List?
The DVLA allows licence exchange for certain countries such as:
- EU/EEA countries
- Australia
- Canada
- Japan
- Switzerland
Unfortunately, Moldova is not included.
This is the most important distinction many websites fail to clarify clearly.
Driving in the UK with a Moldovan Licence
Even though you cannot exchange your licence, you can still drive temporarily.
12-Month Rule Explained
You can drive in the UK with your Moldovan licence for:
Up to 12 months from the date you become a UK resident
After 12 months:
- Your licence is no longer valid in the UK
- You must have a UK driving licence
Who Can Drive Legally?
You can drive if:
- Your licence is valid in Moldova
- You are not disqualified in the UK
- You are within the 12-month period
Do You Need to Take a UK Driving Test?
Yes.
Since Moldova is not a designated country, you must:
- Apply for a UK provisional licence
- Pass the theory test
- Pass the practical driving test
Only then will you receive a full UK driving licence.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a UK Licence
Here is the exact process you should follow:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
You must:
- Be at least 17 years old
- Be a UK resident
- Meet medical requirements
Step 2: Apply for a Provisional Licence
You’ll need:
- Identity documents (passport/BRP)
- Address history (3 years)
- £34 fee (online)
Step 3: Prepare for the Theory Test
The theory test includes:
- Multiple-choice questions
- Hazard perception test
Step 4: Take Driving Lessons (Recommended)
Even experienced drivers benefit from:
- Learning UK road rules
- Understanding driving test expectations
Step 5: Pass the Practical Driving Test
This is mandatory to obtain a full UK licence.
Step 6: Receive Your Full UK Licence
After passing:
- Your licence is issued by DVLA
- Your Moldovan licence becomes irrelevant for UK use
Documents Required
For a provisional licence:
- Valid passport or identity document
- UK address details
- National Insurance number (if available)
For tests:
- Provisional licence
- Booking confirmation
Fees and Processing Time
Costs
- Provisional licence: £34 (online)
- Theory test: £23
- Practical test: £62–£75
Timeline
- Provisional licence: 1–3 weeks
- Full process: 2–6 months (depends on test availability)
Common Reasons for Rejection
Many applicants face delays due to:
- Incorrect application details
- Missing documents
- Identity verification issues
- Medical conditions not disclosed
What Happens If You Cannot Exchange Your Licence?
This is the reality for Moldovan drivers:
You must go through the full UK licensing system.
There is no shortcut.
Tips to Speed Up Your DVLA Application
- Apply online instead of by post
- Book theory test early
- Take intensive driving courses
- Use cancellation apps for faster test dates
- Ensure all documents are correct
How do I convert my Indian driving license to the UK?
You cannot directly convert or exchange an Indian driving licence for a UK one, as India is not among the designated countries eligible for exchange. Instead, you can drive in the UK on your valid Indian licence (plus an International Driving Permit recommended for non-English licences) for up to 12 months from arrival if you’re a visitor or new resident.
Eligibility Check
India does not qualify for direct exchange; only licences from countries like Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa, and others (about 22 total) can be swapped without tests if applied within 5 years of residency. For Indian licences, full UK licensing is required after the 12-month period.
Steps to Obtain UK Licence
Apply for a provisional UK licence online via GOV.UK or DVLA form D1 (about £34).
- Pass the theory test (£23) and hazard perception test.
- Complete practical driving lessons and pass the driving test (£75 weekdays).
- Apply for your full UK photocard licence (£20 first issue).
Your Indian licence must be surrendered or returned to India upon success.
Costs Overview
| Item | Approximate Cost (GBP) |
| Provisional Licence | 34 |
| Theory Test | 23 |
| Practical Test | 75 (weekdays) |
| Full Licence Issue | 20 |
| Total (basic) | 152 |
Additional Tips
Get an IDP from India before travel for better acceptance by police/insurers. Processes apply to Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales); Northern Ireland has slight variations. Check GOV.UK tools for your status and book tests via DVSA.
Final Verdict
If you hold a Moldovan driving licence:
- You cannot exchange it directly in the UK
- You can drive for 12 months after becoming a resident
- You must pass UK theory and practical tests
The key is to start early—don’t wait until your 12 months expire.
FAQ SECTION
Can I Convert My Moldovan Driver’s License To A UK Driver’s License?
No – Moldova is not included on the DVLA’S list, so you must complete the appropriate UK driving tests.
How long can I drive in the UK with a Moldovan licence?
You can drive for up to 12 months after becoming a UK resident.
Do I need to take a driving test in the UK?
Yes, both theory and practical tests are required.
What happens after 12 months?
Your Moldovan licence becomes invalid for UK driving.
How much does it cost to get a UK driving licence?
Around £120–£150 total, depending on test fees.
Can I drive while waiting for my UK licence?
Only if you are still within the 12-month validity period.
Is there any way to avoid the UK driving test?
You cannot avoid a driving test in the UK unless your country is included on the DVLA list.