Ukraine radically changes rules for obtaining driver's license: Main changes

When you don't have to go to driving school

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a new procedure for obtaining a driver's license. It differs significantly from the rules that have been in place in Ukraine for many years. The changes are part of the reform that the Ministry of Internal Affairs has been implementing since the summer of 2023.

The change means that future drivers will have the choice of studying theory on their own or at a driving school.

Previously, it was compulsory to attend a theory course at a driving school, but this rule has now been abolished. No documents are required to prove that you have passed the theory course at a driving school.

A person can learn the rules of the road at home. Then you must come to any center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and take the exam by registering online.

If you wish, you can hire a tutor or, as before, study at a driving school.

According to the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Ihor Klymenko, these innovations also apply to the "Driving Schools for People with Disabilities" project. In particular, wounded soldiers will be able to study under the program. Independent study of the theory will make their training process more convenient.

According to the minister, the Cabinet's decree will come into force after its official publication (as of November 17, the decree had not been published). The same changes are envisaged in draft law No. 7354 approved by the Ukrainian Parliament, which is expected to come into force in November 2023.

How the theoretical exam is conducted

The reform of the service centers of the Ministry of Internal Affairs provides for the creation of transparent conditions for taking the exam.

There are no more "blind spots" in the rooms - 4 cameras have been installed, which provide cross-filming and additionally record the sound in the room.

Ihor Klymenko emphasized that the theoretical exam can be taken in any center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine. Later, this function will be available in the ASCs as well.

It is possible to register for the exam online at the website of the Main Service Center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine

If you do not pass the exam, you have 10 days to take it again. The number of attempts is unlimited.

The type and number of questions will not change. You have 20 minutes to answer 20 questions on the computer-based test.

Driving practice

You can start practical training only after passing the theory exam at a service center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine. This possibility remains for 12 months after receiving a certificate of theoretical training.

At this stage, you must attend practical classes at a driving school and complete a training program (usually 40 hours of driving with an instructor). You must then pass an internal examination and receive a driving school certificate.

After completing the practical course at the driving school, you must register for the practical exam at a service center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The registration is carried out via terminals on the premises of the centers. The possibility of online registration is also being considered.

From August 1, 2023, the number of attempts to pass the practical exam will be unlimited (previously only 3 attempts were allowed) within 2 years from the date of issuance of the certificate of completion of practical training at the driving school. The interval between attempts will be 10 days.

The practical test scoring sheet has been updated. This document clearly defines typical mistakes and criteria for assessing a candidate's ability to obtain a driver's license.

Two dash cameras and a 360° camera have been installed in the car for the practical test to prevent any illegal actions by the examiner.

Algorithm for obtaining a driver's license under the new rules

Taking into account the innovations, the procedure for obtaining a driver's license will be as follows

• Preparing for the theoretical exam on your own or at a driving school;
• Registering for the test online;
• Taking the theory test at a Ministry of Internal Affairs service center;
• Driving practice at a driving school;
• Driving practice at a driving school;
• Obtaining a driving school certificate of completion of the practical course;
• Appointment at a Ministry of Internal Affairs service center for a practical test;
• Passing the practical test;
• Obtaining a driver's license.

Fines for instructors

The reform of the procedure for obtaining a driver's license also aims to combat corruption. Prospective drivers have 30 days to appeal against the actions of driving school instructors and service center employees in the following cases

Violation of the procedure for training, retraining, and further training of drivers (Article 127-3 of the Code of Administrative Violations). It is punishable by a fine from 500 to 800 tax-free minimums, i.e. from 8,500 to 13,600 UAH;

Violation of the procedure of state accreditation of driving schools and driving exams (Article 127-3 of the Code of Administrative Violations). It is punishable by a fine from 500 to 1000 tax-free minimums, i.e. UAH 8,500 - 17,000; and for employees of the Ministry of Internal Affairs - from 1000 to 3000 minimums, i.e. UAH 17,000 - 51,000.

The exchange of licenses has become easier

After successfully passing the theoretical and practical exams, a driver receives a license that must be renewed every two years.

Previously, it was necessary to go to a service center, but now you can replace your license through Diia by ordering the document to be delivered by Ukrposhta.

Photo: In Diia, you can order the delivery of a driver's license when exchanging it (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)

To obtain a new license, you must submit a request in the application and then choose one of the following options

• Pick up the certificate at the service center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs
• Visit the nearest branch of Ukrposhta;
• Order a courier

It takes up to 3 days to process the application and up to 7 days to deliver it by mail. The cost of the service is 294 UAH.

The replacement service can be used by drivers who received their first license 2 years ago, as well as by those who have lost or damaged the document.