Moldovans residing in UK to be able to exchange driving licenses without taking exams as of 1 August 2025

Citizens of Moldova residing in the United Kingdom as of 1 August 2025 will be able to exchange their Moldovan driving license for a British one without taking a theoretical or practical exam.

The simplified procedure for exchanging driving licenses became possible with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Moldova and the United Kingdom. The document was signed by Ambassador of Moldova to the United Kingdom Ruslan Bolbocean and Lilian Greenwood, Minister of State in the British Department for Transport.

"This decision brings real benefits for our citizens residing in the United Kingdom: less bureaucracy, reduced costs and quick access to a British driving license," said Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popsoi.

To benefit from the simplified procedure, the application for license exchange must be submitted to the United Kingdom's Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) within a maximum of five years after getting the residency status in the United Kingdom. This rule applies uniformly to all countries designated by British authorities according to the specific provisions of related legislation.

By signing the Memorandum of Understanding, the United Kingdom included  Moldova in the list of countries for which the validity of national driving licenses is recognized—a list that includes EU member states and 22 non-EU countries.

At the same time, under the agreement, Moldova will also recognize British driving licenses, including those got by Moldovan citizens during their residence in the UK.

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