Quick answer
EU and EEA licence holders can keep driving on their licence in Cyprus and exchange it only if they want to. UK licence holders who live in Cyprus must exchange their licence within six months, without a test, at a Road Transport Department district office. Other non-EU licences can be exchanged directly only if Cyprus recognises the issuing country; otherwise you need to pass the Cypriot tests.
- EU/EEA licences are valid in Cyprus; exchange is optional in most cases.
- UK licences must be exchanged within six months of becoming resident, with no test.
- An International Driving Permit does not replace the exchange for residents.
- Other non-EU licences can be exchanged only if the country is recognised; otherwise tests apply.
- Drivers aged 70 and over renew every three years with a medical certificate.
Whether you need to swap your foreign driving licence for a Cypriot one depends on where it was issued. Here we explain the rules for EU, UK and other licence holders, the documents to bring and what changes once you reach 70.
Who needs to exchange their licence in Cyprus?
The rules differ by the country that issued your licence. The table below gives the short version.
| Licence issued in | Can you keep driving on it? | Exchange needed? | Test? |
|---|---|---|---|
| EU or EEA country | Yes, while it is valid | Optional in most cases | No |
| United Kingdom | Up to 6 months after becoming resident | Yes, within 6 months | No |
| Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey, Isle of Man | Up to 6 months | Cannot be exchanged | Yes, apply as a new driver |
| Other non-EU, recognised country | Up to 6 months | Yes | No |
| Other non-EU, not recognised | Limited period only | Not possible | Yes, theory and practical |
EU and EEA licences
A valid EU or EEA licence is recognised in Cyprus on the same footing as a Cypriot one, so most EU residents never exchange. You may have to exchange if your licence is lost, stolen or damaged, or in some cases after a traffic offence in Cyprus. Old paper-style EU licences remain valid for now but must be replaced with the standard card format by 2033.
UK licences
Since Brexit, UK licences are treated as third-country licences. According to GOV.UK, if you live in Cyprus you can drive on your UK licence for up to six months, after which you must exchange it. No test is needed. You cannot use an International Driving Permit instead, and you cannot renew a UK licence while living in Cyprus, so it makes sense to exchange early.
Licences from Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man cannot be exchanged. Holders must apply for a Cypriot licence as a new driver and pass the tests.
Other non-EU licences
Cyprus allows direct exchange only for licences issued by countries it recognises for this purpose, and the list can change. If your country is not recognised, you will need to go through the normal Cypriot licensing process, including the theory and practical tests. Confirm your country's status with the Road Transport Department (RTD) before your six months run out, and start early so that you do not end up without a valid licence.
What documents do you need?
Bring originals and copies. Requirements can vary slightly by office, so check before you go.
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Completed application form | Available at the RTD |
| Recent passport-style photo | Usually one |
| Passport or EU ID card | For identification |
| Proof of lawful residence | Yellow slip (MEU1), UK Withdrawal Agreement residence document or residence permit |
| Your original foreign licence | It is surrendered when you exchange |
| Translation | If the licence is not in Greek or English |
| Medical certificate | If you are 70 or over, or for some heavy vehicle categories |
If you are still waiting for your residence document, our guide to residency permits in Cyprus explains the process.
How do you exchange your licence?
Step 1: Get your check code (UK licences)
UK licence holders need a check code so that the RTD can confirm their driving record. Get it from the DVLA for licences issued in England, Wales or Scotland, or from the DVA for Northern Irish licences. Codes expire after a short time, so generate it close to your appointment.
Step 2: Gather your documents
Use the checklist above. Keep a photocopy of your foreign licence, because you will hand in the original.
Step 3: Apply at an RTD district office
Applications are made in person at a district office of the Road Transport Department. Submit your documents and pay the fee. As of 2026, the standard driving licence fee is reported as €40; check the current amount with the RTD.
Step 4: Collect your Cypriot licence
Once your documents are in order, the application itself does not take long at the counter. The card is produced afterwards, so ask at the office how and when you will receive it.
How long does it take?
Allow a few weeks from application to card, and longer in busy periods. Do not leave a UK or non-EU exchange until the last days of your six-month window.
Renewing your licence at 70 and over
Once you reach 70, a Cypriot licence must be renewed every three years, and each renewal needs a medical certificate from a doctor confirming you are fit to drive. A digital licence has also been announced, but no launch date had been set as of October 2026.
If you are 70 or over and exchanging a foreign licence, expect to provide a medical certificate at the exchange too.
Common problems
- Missing the six-month deadline. After six months as a resident, a UK licence no longer lets you drive legally in Cyprus, and your car insurance may not pay out.
- Expired check code. Generate a new DVLA or DVA code if your appointment is delayed.
- No proof of residence yet. The RTD will ask for it, so apply for your residence document early.
- Licence not in Greek or English. Arrange a certified translation in advance.
What to do next
Once you have your Cypriot licence, tell your car insurer, since many policies set conditions on foreign licences. If you own a car, make sure its road tax and roadworthiness test are up to date.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to exchange my EU driving licence in Cyprus?
Usually not. A valid EU or EEA licence is recognised in Cyprus. You may need to exchange it if it is lost, stolen or damaged, or in certain cases involving traffic offences.
How long can I drive on a UK licence in Cyprus?
If you live in Cyprus, you can drive on your UK licence for up to six months. After that you must exchange it for a Cypriot licence, which does not require a test.
Can I use an International Driving Permit instead of exchanging?
No. Residents cannot use an International Driving Permit to avoid exchanging a UK or other non-EU licence.
How much does it cost to exchange a licence in Cyprus?
As of 2026 the standard licence fee is reported as €40. Check the current amount with the Road Transport Department before you go.
How often do drivers over 70 renew their licence in Cyprus?
Drivers aged 70 and over renew every three years and need to provide a medical certificate with each renewal.
