Exchanging a Moldovan Driving Licence in the UK

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Exchanging a Moldovan Driving Licence in the UK
Exchanging a Moldovan Driving Licence in the UK

Starting 1 August 2025, Moldovan citizens residing in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) can exchange their valid Moldovan driving licence for a UK one without taking any theory or practical driving tests.

What’s Changing?

  • A Memorandum of Understanding between the UK and the Republic of Moldova was signed by both governments, formalising this new reciprocal exchange agreement.
  • It joins Moldova to the list of 22 designated countries whose licences are recognized for direct exchange in the UK.
  • A statutory instrument, The Driving Licences (Exchangeable Licences) Order 2025, has been enacted to give effect to this designation.

Meini Prawf Cymhwysedd

To benefit from the simplified exchange:

  1. You must be a resident in Great Britain.
  2. Your Moldovan licence must be valid at the time of application.
  3. The exchange must be submitted within five years of becoming a UK resident.
  4. The entitlement on your UK licence will mirror what was on your Moldovan licence, including whether it allows driving manual or automatic vehicles.

Benefits of the Exchange

AdvantageWhy It Matters
No exams requiredSaves you time and avoids costly test fees and driving lessons.
Reciprocal recognitionEasier access to employment, training, and daily mobility for Moldovan residents.
Streamlined proceduresReduced bureaucracy and faster access to a UK driving licence.

What About Northern Ireland?

This arrangement does not apply to Northern Ireland, where driving licences are issued by the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA). Northern Irish residents must follow local licensing rules .

Exchange Summary

  • Effective Date: 1 August 2025
  • Requirement: Valid Moldovan licence + UK residency
  • Deadline: Within 5 years of becoming a UK resident
  • Exemption: No test required; categories retained as on the Moldovan licence
  • Applies to: Great Britain only (England, Scotland, Wales)

If you’d like help navigating the DVLA application process, preparing documentation, or understanding eligibility more deeply, feel free to ask!