GTRiga

Driving licences in Latvia for Ukrainians

Moved to Latvia and want to drive? Here's the clarity: whether you can drive on a Ukrainian licence, whether you must exchange it, and how to adapt calmly to Riga's roads.

Key point: since January 2026 — exchange without an exam

Latvia and Ukraine mutually recognise driving licences. A Ukrainian licence can be exchanged for a Latvian one without sitting a CSDD exam (a medical check, documents and a translation are required). If your case is still being clarified, confirm the current status with CSDD.

Do you need to exchange your licence?

Check in a minute with the licence-exchange checker.

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What's worth knowing

Driving on a Ukrainian licence

For a short stay you may drive on a valid Ukrainian licence. For permanent residence the licence must be exchanged.

Exchange without an exam

Since 2026 Ukrainian licences are exchanged for Latvian ones without an exam — which makes the transition easier.

Adapting to Riga

Different junctions, trams, winter roads — we'll help you drive confidently in Latvian conditions.

If you haven't driven for a while

A diagnostic lesson shows your real skills and weak spots — no rush, no pressure.

Frequent questions

Can I drive in Latvia on a Ukrainian licence?

For a short visit — yes. For permanent residence the licence must be exchanged for a Latvian one; since 2026 this is done without an exam. Confirm your case at csdd.lv.

Do I have to sit a CSDD exam?

Thanks to mutual recognition (since January 2026) Ukrainian licences are exchanged without an exam. A medical check, translation and documents are required.

What language are lessons in?

In Russian, Ukrainian (by arrangement), Latvian and English — whatever is most comfortable for you.

I haven't driven in a long time — where do I start?

With a diagnostic lesson: Roman assesses your skills and builds a plan to get you back behind the wheel.

This information is for orientation and may change — always confirm the current rules at csdd.lv.

Ready to start?

Book a first lesson — we'll help you adapt to driving in Riga.

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