What to do if your driving license is not valid in Cyprus
A foreign driver’s license is valid in Cyprus for only six months. After this period, foreign residents are required to convert it to a Cypriot driver’s license.
The ability to convert a foreign driver’s license depends on the country of origin. Cyprus allows citizens from certain countries to exchange their licenses directly without additional tests. However, citizens from other countries must pass both a theory test and a practical driving test to obtain a Cypriot license.
To avoid surprises, it is recommended to check with Cypriot authorities or official websites whether your driver’s license can be converted directly or if additional steps are required.
If you need to take a theory and practical driving test, here is a breakdown of the process.
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The Process of Getting a Cypriot License
The first step is passing a theory exam and a driving test, just like when obtaining a new license. You don’t have to go through it alone—hiring a local driving instructor can make the process much smoother. A good instructor will schedule your exams and provide practice lessons before the test. Many expats in Cyprus recommend Stefanos, a well-known driving instructor who has helped many newcomers obtain their licenses. You can reach him via WhatsApp at +357 99369838.
The Theory Test – What to Expect
The theory exam in Cyprus is conducted in person at the Department of Road Transport. You will need to visit their office (you can find the address or a link to directions here).
During the exam, the examiner will present road signs on paper and ask you to identify them. Typically, they will ask about 10-15 signs. The examiner speaks English, so language won’t be an issue. Stefanos arranged my appointment, accompanied me to the test center, and reviewed the road signs with me before the test began.
The Practical Driving Test – How It Works
Once you pass the theory test, the next step is the practical driving test. At the Department of Road Transport, all test candidates will enter an office where an official randomly assigns driving examiners. They place the examiners’ names inside three Kinder egg containers, and each candidate picks one to reveal their assigned examiner.
Before getting into the car, you will be asked to identify around 10 road signs again. Then, you will take the test in the instructor’s car (the same car you practiced with). The driving test lasts about 30 minutes and typically includes:
- Navigating roundabouts
- Reversing into a parking space
- A reverse driving maneuver
- The “three-point turn” on a narrow road
How to Prepare for the Test
To be fully prepared, I took two driving lessons with Stefanos before the test. This helped me get comfortable with the car I would be using and practice the maneuvers that almost always appear in the exam. On the test day, Stefanos met me at the transport office, reviewed the road signs with me, and waited until I completed the test (which I passed on my first attempt! 😊).
License Conversion – What You Need to Know
If you’re living in Cyprus with a foreign driving license, remember that over time, you will need to convert it into a Cypriot license. It’s a simple process, but it’s essential to be aware of the requirements in advance to ensure a smooth transition.
