Do Russian citizens need to exchange their driver’s licenses in Cyprus?

Moving to Cyprus involves several legal formalities — especially regarding transportation. One of the first questions foreigners face is whether they can continue driving with their foreign license or need to exchange it for a local one. The answer depends on several factors: duration of stay, type of residence permit, and license category. Below is an overview of the conditions, deadlines, and procedure for exchanging a driver’s license in Cyprus in 2025.

When Is It Necessary to Exchange Your Driver’s License in Cyprus?

For foreign citizens, including Russian nationals, the general rules established by Cypriot law apply. The ability to drive in Cyprus depends on several factors: nationality, residence status, validity period of the existing license, and duration of stay on the island. Russian driver’s licenses are recognized in Cyprus for a limited time, but long-term residents are required to exchange them for local licenses.

The legal classification of the document directly affects its validity: a license issued by a non-EU country may be used for a maximum of 6 months after obtaining a temporary or permanent residence permit. After this period, continuing to drive with a Russian license constitutes a violation punishable under Cypriot law, up to criminal liability. Exceptions apply only to tourists and short-term visitors staying up to 90 days without a residence permit.

Requirements and Procedure for Exchanging a Driver’s License in Cyprus

The exchange process is regulated by the Department of Road Transport of Cyprus. Foreign citizens who have obtained a residence permit (temporary or permanent) must apply to exchange their foreign driver’s license. A valid Russian license issued based on a driving test (and not merely by exchange from another country) is required for legal recognition.

Before visiting the department, it is necessary to schedule an appointment in advance at the nearest District Transport Office.

The exchange procedure consists of several steps:

1. Submit the original driver’s license along with a notarized translation.
2. Provide an application form together with a passport, residence permit card, and two photographs.
3. Pay the state fee — €40 for issuing the new license card.

Additionally, a police certificate confirming the right to drive may be required if there are doubts about the authenticity of the document. In some cases, proof of permanent residence — such as a rental agreement or utility bills in the applicant’s name — must also be presented.

Full legal assistance with the driver’s license exchange procedure — including document preparation, translation, appointment booking, and payment of all state fees — is available through our office. The total service cost is approximately €600.

If a person continues to drive a vehicle with an expired or unrecognized driver’s license in Cyprus, this is considered a violation of the law. Such behavior may result in a fine of up to €150. In addition, the vehicle may be impounded, and in the event of an accident, the driver may face criminal liability.

The complexity of the procedure lies in the nuances that are not always obvious at the application stage. Some categories of citizens lose the right to automatic license exchange if their document was issued in another jurisdiction or obtained without passing a driving test. Moreover, errors in translation, documentation, or application submission can lead to rejection without the possibility of quick resubmission.

Legal assistance in Cyprus can help you:

• Verify that your documentation meets the requirements of the Ministry of Interior.
• Avoid invalid translations and incorrect document formats.
• Ensure proper submission of all documents and minimize rejection risks.
• Retain temporary driving rights until the new license is issued.

Professional legal support is especially important if you are uncertain about the validity or expiration of your current license. A consultation with a lawyer will help determine whether and when you need to exchange your document under Cypriot law.