Polish driving license in Cyprus. Do I need to exchange it?

For many Poles living in Cyprus, a car is quickly becoming their primary means of transportation. Limited public transportation means owning a car is often essential for everyday life. However, many people wonder whether a Polish driving license is valid in Cyprus, when it should be renewed, and what the process entails. We explain the most important rules applicable to Polish citizens.

Is a Polish driving license valid in Cyprus?

Yes. Polish driving licenses are fully recognized in Cyprus. As a European Union citizen, you can legally drive with a valid Polish driving license.

There's no obligation to replace your document just because you've moved to Cyprus. You can use your Polish driving license until its expiration date.

Does a Pole have to exchange his driving license?

NO.

For EU citizens, exchanging their driving license is voluntary. However, many Poles choose to obtain a Cypriot license for practical reasons, especially if they plan to stay on the island for many years.

When can you exchange your Polish driving license?

You can apply for an exchange after at least six months of legal residence in Cyprus.

However, this does not mean that exchange becomes mandatory after six months. This deadline merely specifies the point at which an application for a Cypriot driving license can be submitted.

Where to submit an application?

Responsible for issuing driving licenses Department of Road Transport (TOM).

In some cases, documents can also be submitted via the Citizen Service Centre (KEP), but the competent authority in charge of the case remains the Road Transport Department.

What documents are needed?

When submitting your application, please prepare:

• valid Polish driving license,
• ID card or passport,
• a document confirming legal residence in Cyprus (for EU citizens most often MEU1, commonly called Yellow Slip),
• document confirming place of residence,
• a current photograph, if required,
• completed form VOL 7Δ.

Do you have to take an exam?

NO.

Exchanging a Polish driving license for a Cypriot one is done solely through an administrative procedure. There is no need to retake the theoretical or practical exam.

What is happening with Polish driving licenses?

Once a Cypriot driving license is issued, the Polish document is returned to the issuing country. This is due to EU regulations, which stipulate that a person may only hold one valid driving license issued by an EU member state.

How long is a Cypriot driving license valid for?

A Category B driving licence issued in Cyprus is generally valid for 15 years. After this period, it must be renewed in accordance with applicable regulations.

Is it worth exchanging your Polish driving license?

There is no need for this, but for many people it is a convenient solution.

A Cypriot driving license can simplify some administrative formalities, contacting local institutions, and purchasing selected services. Furthermore, once a Polish license expires, renewal will still take place in Cyprus, if that is your country of permanent residence.

What if you don't have a driving license?

People who have never held a driving licence must go through the full Cypriot procedure to obtain one.

It includes:

• obtaining a Learner’s Permit,
• theoretical exam,
• practical driving lessons,
• practical exam.

However, this is a separate topic, which we describe in detail in the guide on obtaining a driving license in Cyprus.

Summary

For most Poles living in Cyprus, exchanging their driving license isn't necessary. A valid document issued in Poland remains fully recognized and allows them to legally drive on the island.

However, if you plan to stay for a long time or prefer to use local documents, you can voluntarily apply for a Cypriot driving license after six months of legal residence. The entire procedure is without exams and involves completing administrative formalities.

FAQ

Is a Polish driving license valid in Cyprus?

Yes. Polish citizens can legally drive in Cyprus with a valid Polish driving license.

Do I need to exchange my driving licence after six months of stay?

No. You can apply for an exchange after six months, but this is not mandatory for EU citizens.

Do I have to pass an exam when exchanging?

No. The exchange of a Polish driving license takes place without a theoretical and practical exam.

How long is a Cypriot driving license valid for?

A category B driving license is valid for 15 years.

Can I have a Polish and Cypriot driving license at the same time?

No. Once a Cypriot driving licence is issued, the Polish document is returned to the country that issued it, in accordance with the regulations in force in the European Union.

The material was prepared on the basis of: information from the Department of Road Transport of the Republic of Cyprus and European Union regulations on the mutual recognition and exchange of driving licences.