Living in Cyprus without a car is like living without hands — anyone who’s spent more than a week on the island will agree. Unfortunately, public transportation in Cyprus is poorly developed, which is why many residents choose to buy or rent a car to remain mobile at all times. This often raises the question: Can you legally drive in Cyprus without a European driving license?
The answer is yes, but only during the first six months after receiving your residence permit. After that, all foreign drivers are legally required to exchange their license for a Cypriot one.
⚠️ Important: Driving with an expired or unrecognized license beyond the legal limit can result in fines. Additionally, in the case of an accident, insurance companies may refuse to cover damages if the driver doesn’t hold a valid Cypriot driving license.
Who Can Exchange Their Driver’s License in Cyprus?
You are eligible to exchange your foreign license after six months of legal residence in Cyprus (not earlier). According to local law, non-EU licenses are valid for up to:
90 days for tourists
185 days for residents
After this period, you must obtain a Cypriot license to continue driving legally.
As per Article 20 of the Cyprus Driving License Law (2021), Cyprus recognizes valid licenses issued by the European Union and the following countries:
Australia
Canada
Georgia
Iceland
Japan
Liechtenstein
New Zealand
Norway
Ukraine
Russia
Serbia
South Africa
South Korea
Switzerland
United Kingdom
United Arab Emirates
United States
Zimbabwe
⚠️ Note: Citizens of all other countries must pass both the theory and practical driving tests to receive a Cypriot license.
Required Documents
To exchange your driver’s license, visit the Cyprus Department of Road Transport and bring the following:
Passport and photocopy of the ID page
Original driver’s license and photocopy
Official translation of the license (to English or Greek)
Residence permit (MEU1 / MEU2 / MEU3) and a photocopy
Completed Form TOM 7D (Download it here)
One recent passport-sized photo (45x35 mm)
Medical certificate (only for drivers aged 70+)
You’ll also need to prove continuous legal stay in Cyprus for the last 6 months using one of the following:
Social insurance payment record for the past 6 months
Utility bills (electricity, water, internet, phone) covering the past 6 months
If you’re confirming residency for a spouse who doesn’t pay utility bills, also include a marriage certificate with apostille.
Where to Go: Cyprus Transport Department Offices
Exchange your license by visiting one of the local offices below (appointment required):
Nicosia: 27 Vasileos Pavlou, 2412 Nicosia – Tel: 22815749
Limassol: Koroivou Street, Polemidia, 3112 Limassol – Tel: 25870515
Paphos: Mesogi Industrial Area, 8061 Paphos – Tel: 26821356
Larnaca: 13 Acropoleos Ave, Aradippou Industrial Area, 7101 – Tel: 24813228
Deryneia (Famagusta): 24 Albert Einstein, Deryneia Industrial Area, 5380 – Tel: 23815170
Appointments are required. Call ahead and book a time slot. Arrive at least 30 minutes early or your appointment may be cancelled.
Step-by-Step Guide to Exchanging Your License
Gather all required documents
Book an appointment at the Road Transport Office in your area
Arrive 30 minutes early on your appointment day
Check in with the secretary to find your assigned desk
Submit your documents for verification
Pay the processing fee:
€40 (under 65)
Free (over 65)
You will receive a temporary driving permit immediately, allowing you to drive. You’ll be notified by SMS within ~15 business days when your permanent license is ready.
Important: You must surrender your old license when collecting the new one. It will be returned to the issuing authority by post.
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