The Ministry of Internal Affairs explained the rules for using “expired” licenses during wartime
During martial law in Ukraine, there are simplifications for drivers, particularly regarding the use of driver’s licenses that have expired. However, this rule has its limitations.
RBC-Ukraine, citing the Main Service Center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, clarifies the rules for using such documents.
Also read: Forget about plastic: how to obtain fully electronic driver’s licenses in Ukraine
Main points:
- Permission to drive: During the war, it is allowed to drive with a license issued for the first time for 2 years, even if its validity has expired.
- Duration of the norm: The simplification is valid during martial law and for one year after its cancellation.
- Foreign trips: An expired document is considered invalid, which is important to consider when traveling outside Ukraine.
- Service availability: Services for exchanging driver’s licenses are available both in the service centers of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and online.
- Driver’s responsibility: The Main Service Center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs urges compliance with legal requirements and updating documents at the earliest opportunity.
Is it allowed to drive with an “expired” license?
According to Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 184, individuals are allowed to drive vehicles even with an old document. This rule is in effect during martial law and for one year from the date of its termination.
The simplification specifically pertains to driver’s licenses issued for the first time for a duration of 2 years. It is possible to use such an expired document; however, it should be noted that it is considered invalid, especially if you plan to travel abroad.
Recommendations and methods for exchange
Despite the existing simplification, drivers are advised not to delay and to exchange their licenses as soon as possible. This will help avoid misunderstandings in the future and ensure the relevance of documents.
The exchange of licenses can be done in two ways:
- offline – at the service centers of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, which continue to operate under martial law.
- online – through electronic services if there are appropriate grounds.
Consultations on services can be obtained by phone at (044) 290-19-88 or on the official pages of the Main Service Center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs on social media.
Previously, RBC-Ukraine reported on the rules for exchanging foreign driver’s licenses in Ukraine in 2026. It is about how Ukrainians can replace a license obtained abroad with a Ukrainian one: for EU countries, this usually occurs without exams, while for the USA, Canada, or China, theory and driving tests are required.
We also wrote about how to verify the authenticity of a driver’s license in Ukraine. It is noted that determining the authenticity of a document by photo is impossible – this can only be done at the service center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs or through an examination. At the same time, online, one can only check if the license is in the database.
Source: rbc.ua +rel=”nofollow”
