Moldovan and UK institutions seek quick solutions to overcome difficulties in driving license conversion

Authorities of the Republic of Moldova and the United Kingdom are seeking quick solutions to overcome the difficulties faced by Moldovans residing in the UK when converting their driving licenses. The issue was discussed during a joint meeting, organized at the initiative of the Embassy of the Republic of Moldova in London, with the participation of the Agency for Public Services (ASP) and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

During the meeting, members of the Embassy of the Republic of Moldova in the UK highlighted numerous complaints from citizens encountering problems in the document conversion process.

According to the diplomatic mission, the discussions were constructive, and the parties analyzed measures to overcome the situation. Representatives of ASP and DVLA reconfirmed their commitment to finding a legal solution as soon as possible, in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding on mutual recognition of driving licenses and the internal legislation of both countries.

Following the meeting, several measures were agreed upon which will be submitted for approval by the competent institutions in the Republic of Moldova and the United Kingdom.

From 1 August 2025, citizens of the Republic of Moldova residing in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland can exchange their Moldovan license for a British one, without taking a theoretical or practical exam.

The simplified procedure for exchanging driving licenses became possible with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Republic of Moldova and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The document was signed by Ruslan Bolbocean, Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to the UK, and Lilian Greenwood, Minister of State at the UK's Department for Transport.

To benefit from the simplified procedure, the application for license exchange must be submitted to the UK’s Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) within a maximum of five years from obtaining resident status in the UK. This rule applies uniformly to all countries designated by the British authorities, in accordance with specific provisions of the related legislation.

By signing the Memorandum of Understanding, the UK included the Republic of Moldova in the list of countries whose national driving licenses are recognized – a list comprising EU member states and 22 countries outside the EU.

Also, under the agreement, the Republic of Moldova will recognize British driving licenses, including those obtained by Moldovan citizens during their residence in the UK.

The Republic of Moldova has similar agreements with Latvia, Spain, Greece, Israel, Turkey, Albania, and Lithuania. An Agreement with France has been initialed and is set to come into effect, while a joint Declaration of Intent exists between the Republic of Moldova and Germany in this regard.