Driving in Latvia: a guide for foreigners
Moved to Latvia and want to drive here? This section helps you work it out: whether to exchange your licence, how to prepare for the CSDD exam, and how to adapt calmly to Riga's roads.
Do you need to exchange your licence?
Take the quick licence-exchange check — about a minute.
Who this section is for
Foreign drivers
You hold another country's licence and aren't sure whether to exchange it or sit an exam.
Ukrainians in Latvia
In 2026 Latvia and Ukraine signed a licence-recognition agreement — let's see what it means for you and when it takes effect.
→Students
You study in Riga and want to get or confirm a licence while keeping up with your studies.
→After a break
Haven't driven for a while, or drove in another country — we'll help you regain confidence.
Frequent questions
Do I have to exchange a foreign licence for a Latvian one?
If you live in Latvia long-term — yes. EU/EEA and UK licences are exchanged without an exam; for Ukrainian licences an agreement was signed in 2026 — check with CSDD whether it is in force yet; other non-EU licences usually require a CSDD exam. Use the checker above and confirm at csdd.lv.
Can lessons be in English?
Yes — lessons are available in English, Latvian and Russian. Check the exam language with CSDD.
Where do I start if I haven't driven in a long time?
With a diagnostic lesson: Roman assesses your real skills and builds a plan — no rush, no pressure.
Information about the rules is for orientation and may change — always confirm the current rules at csdd.lv.