New temporary rules have been implemented by the European Union in hopes they will ensure people fleeing Ukraine can continue to use their Ukrainian driving license, without needing to exchange it for an EU driving license or to sit for a new driving test. The new Regulation sets specific rules on expired, lost and stolen Ukrainian driving licenses to reduce the administrative burden for those residing in the EU under the temporary protection regime, following Russia’s war of aggression. Digital driving licenses issued by Ukraine (DIIA) may also be recognized once verification tools have been made available and deployed by Ukraine.
The measures also ease requirements for professional drivers, allowing them to work in the EU during the period of temporary protection and to help export Ukrainian goods and facilitate bilateral talks in the context of the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes. Ukrainian lorry and bus drivers will be able to have their professional qualification, obtained in Ukraine, temporarily recognized in the EU following a short training course and a test.
The new rules were proposed by the European Commission in June. Following their adoption by the Parliament and by the Council in July, they were entered into force five days after publication.