Driving around Turkey's roadways is an exciting concept, and for any foreign resident, having the flexibility to discover its various landscapes can be a game-changer. If you are thinking of getting a driver's license in Turkey, in this article, we will explain all the details about a Turkish driver's license, including the ways you can have it.
How is the Turkish Driving License System?
A driving license in Turkey is a document that provides proof of the holder's eligibility for driving a motor vehicle and is issued by the appropriate government agency, local security force, or regional security force.
Turkish driver’s license system brings some legal rules. For instance, you must be 18 years old to apply for a driving license. Also, whether you are a Turkish citizen or a foreign resident, you must have a valid residence permit in Turkey. Not having any negative criminal history in Turkey is also required.
If a foreign national intends to drive around Turkey for 90-day periods, they can use their passport from their native country. If not, they can apply for an international driving permit. In addition, for the first six months of their stay in Turkey, foreigners are permitted to drive using their original country's license. After that, they must apply to a registration office to have their license translated into Turkish.
Transforming Your Driver's License
There are two different ways to obtain a Turkish driver's license. One of these ways is transforming your existing foreign license. This process consists of several steps. The steps to transforming your existing driver’s license are stated below.
- Checking Eligibility: The initial step is to check whether you can transform your driver’s license.
- Preparing the Necessary Documents: Such documents are translated copies of your foreign driver's license, original driver's license, passport, or residence permit.
- Submitting the Documents: All the documents and necessary forms should be forwarded to the relevant authority.
- Paying the Fee: To obtain a Turkish driver's license, you must pay its fee.
Obtaining a Turkish Driver's License Through Exams
If you want to get your Turkey driving license through the traditional method, which involves passing exams, you must enroll in a school that provides theoretical driving education. The course should be taken for at least 30 hours and lasts approximately three weeks. This course covers mechanics, first aid, traffic regulations, and related concerns.
Required Documentation
Submitting the required documents to the relevant institutes is necessary to obtain a Turkish driver's license. The following are the documents needed for this procedure.
- Residence permit
- A valid passport and a copy of it
- A health report from a specified health institution which proves that you are physically and mentally eligible to drive
- Translation of foreign driver's license for people who hold a foreign driver's license
- Recent Biometric photos
Theory and Practical Exams
Candidates have to sign up for driving school. These educational institutions offer instruction in both theory and practice. To become a driver, candidates must pass a theory test that evaluates their understanding of Turkish traffic laws and regulations. After this, people have a practical driving exam to show that they can use the abilities they have acquired on the road after finishing the practical training.
Getting Your Driver's License
Once you have finished your driving instruction and passed the theory and practical exams, you will send all the necessary documents to the Provincial Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs.
After reviewing your application, the authorities will ensure all required documentation is in order. Verifying the completion of your driving education, test scores, health certificate, and other relevant information are all part of this. While your application is being processed, there can be a waiting period. It is best to ask about the estimated timetable during the application process, as the duration is subject to variation.
The authorities will produce your driver's license after your application is accepted. This covers setting up and printing the physical card. After completing all these steps, you can get your Turkish driver's license.
FAQs About Turkish Driver's License
When it comes to driving, there are many frequently asked questions. For instance, many foreigners ask questions like “Is it safe to drive in Turkey?” or “Which side of the road should you drive in Turkey?” We have compiled and elaborated on several of these significant inquiries for your information.
Suppose you have more questions about a Turkish driver’s license, including how to get or transform one or what legal obligations you must perform. In that case, you should consult transportation lawyers in Turkey. At a Turkish lawyer firm called Istanbul Lawyer Firm, with our skilled, experienced lawyers in Turkey, we can help you with Turkish transportation law. In addition, with our English-speaking lawyers in Turkey, we assist you during your driver's license process.
How long does it take to get a driver's license in Turkey?
The type of license, individual progress, and local processing timelines are some variables that affect how long it takes to get a driver's license in Turkey. For instance, theoretical training and exams or practical driving lessons can affect the duration of getting a driver’s license.
How long can I use my foreign driver's license in Turkey?
You can use your foreign driver’s license for a limited period, which is six months. After six months, You must change it into a Turkish driver's license. Alternatively, you can take tests in Turkey to obtain a new driver's license.
What is the Duration of Validity for a Turkish Driving License?
This can change based on driving license classes. For instance, M, A1, A2, B, B1, B, I, F, and G class Turkish driver's licenses are valid for ten years, while C1, C1E, C, CE, D1, D1E, D, and class are valid for five years.