Moldovan citizens residing in UK and Italy to be able to exchange driver's licenses without additional exams

Moldovan citizens living and working in the United Kingdom and Italy will be able to exchange the driver's licenses through a simplified procedure, without the need for additional exams. This facility will be applied following the government's approval of the agreements signed with the two states today.

Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popșoi said at the cabinet meeting that the Memorandum of Understanding with the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland aims to recognize and ensure the reciprocal exchange of driver's licenses.

Thus, the United Kingdom has included Moldova in the list of countries for which the validity of national driver's licenses is recognized – a list that includes EU member states and 22 non-EU countries.


“The implementation of this memorandum brings benefits to Moldovan citizens residing in the UK by significantly simplifying the administrative procedures regarding the driving right for citizens who have not been residents in the United Kingdom for more than five years from the date of the exchange application,” stated Mihai Popșoi.


The official emphasized that the Memorandum becomes applicable from August 1, 2025.

To benefit from this simplified procedure, the license exchange application must be submitted to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency in the UK (DVLA) within five years of obtaining resident status in the UK. 

Additionally, based on the agreement, Moldova will also recognize British driver's licenses, including those obtained by Moldovan citizens during their time residing in the UK.


“Soon, when we also become European Union members, we will enjoy all the facilities,” stated Prime Minister Dorin Recean.


Also today, the Executive approved the Agreement between the Government of Moldova and the Government of the Republic of Italy regarding the mutual recognition of driver's licenses for conversion purposes, concluded in Rome on July 9, 2025.

The agreement will apply to license holders of citizens with permanent residency in the territory of either party and will contribute to the rapid, simplified exchange of driver's licenses without additional exams. The document will contribute to facilitating the mobility of Moldovan and Italian citizens and ensuring a clear and efficient legal framework for the conversion of driver's licenses.


“The agreement is an effective tool that supports and complements the National Development Plan, highlighting the government's firm commitment to protecting and promoting the rights of its citizens,” noted Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi.


Moldova has similar agreements with Ireland, Latvia, Spain, Greece, Israel, Turkey, Albania and Lithuania. An agreement with France has been initialed and is set to come into effect, while a joint declaration of intent exists between Moldova and Germany in this regard.