Can foreigners in Turkey apply for driving license? What are the things to consider?
Yes, foreigners can apply for a driving license in Turkey. However, there are some things to consider before applying for a Turkish driving license as a foreigner.
First, you will need to have a valid residence permit in Turkey. Without a residence permit, you will not be able to apply for a driving license. Once you have a valid residence permit, you can apply for a driving license at the local traffic registration office (trafik tescil bürosu) in your city.
There are a few documents that you will need to provide when applying for a driving license in Turkey. These include:
It is important to note that if you have a driving license from your home country, you may be able to exchange it for a Turkish driving license without having to take a driving course or test. However, this will depend on the country where your driving license was issued.
In addition to the above requirements, you will also need to pay a fee when applying for a driving license in Turkey. The fee can vary depending on your city and the type of driving license you are applying for.
Overall, applying for a driving license in Turkey as a foreigner can be a bit complex. It is recommended that you seek the assistance of a local lawyer or legal firm to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and to guide you through the application process.
What documents you need to have for driver’s license application in Turkey
Residence Permit
As stated previously, a valid residence permit is necessary to apply for a driver’s license in Turkey. If you do not have a valid residence permit, you must apply for one prior to requesting a driver’s license. It is recommended that you begin the process of applying for a residence permit well in advance, as it can take some time.
Medical Report
When applying for a driver’s license in Turkey, you must submit a medical report from a certified Turkish medical facility. The medical report must indicate that you are mentally and physically fit to operate a motor vehicle. Typically, the medical examination includes an eye exam, hearing test, and general physical exam.
First Aid Training
You must also provide documentation that you have completed a first aid course from a certified training center in Turkey. The first aid course covers fundamental first aid techniques, such as CPR administration and injury treatment. The course typically lasts about eight hours and can be taken at any certified training facility in Turkey.
Driving Course
A certificate of completion from a certified driving school in Turkey is also required. The driver’s education program incorporates both theoretical and practical instruction in driving laws, regulations, and road safety. Depending on the type of driver’s license you are applying for, the length of the course can vary, but it typically takes around 35 hours to complete.
Driving License Exchange With Your Home Country to Turkey.
If you possess a valid license from your home country, you may be able to exchange it for a Turkish license without taking a driving course or exam. However, this will depend on the country where you obtained your driver’s license. In addition to a notarized Turkish translation of your driver’s license and other required documents, such as a residence permit and a medical report, you must present a translation of your license notarized in Turkish.
Fees to Obtain Driver’s License in Turkey.
The fees associated with applying for a driver’s license in Turkey can vary depending on the city and type of license being sought. Typically, the fees consist of a processing fee, a medical exam fee, and a driving course fee. When you apply for a driver’s license, you can pay the fees at the local office of traffic registration.
In conclusion, obtaining a license to drive in Turkey as a foreigner can be somewhat complicated. It is recommended that you seek legal assistance of a local attorney or law firm to ensure that you have all the required documents and for assistance with the application process.
Also read; Why Your Driver License Can Be Confiscated in Turkey
