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.
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, 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.