You already have a driver’s license from your home country. Can you use it to drive in Korea?

The short answer is no.

A foreign driver’s license by itself is not normally valid for driving in Korea. However, if your license was issued by an authorized institution in another country, you may be able to exchange it for a Korean driver’s license.

How to Exchange a Foreign License

The basic process consists of three steps.

Step 1. Document Review

Submit the required documents for review.

These may include an embassy confirmation or other documents verifying that your foreign driver’s license is valid.

The test center may request additional documents if any information is missing or cannot be verified.

Step 2. Physical Check-Up and Written Test

You must complete a physical check-up and may be required to take the Korean written driving test.

If your license was issued by a country that recognizes Korean driver’s licenses, the written test may be waived.

This means that the requirements depend on the country that issued your license.

Step 3. Korean Driver’s License Issuance

After your documents are approved and you complete the required examination or test, you can receive a Korean driver’s license.

Important Points

• A foreign driver’s license alone does not normally allow you to drive in Korea.
• The license must have been issued by an authorized institution in another country.
• The written test may be waived for licenses issued by countries that recognize Korean driver’s licenses.
• Additional documents may be requested during the review process.
• Requirements may differ depending on the country that issued your license.

Before applying, check whether your country is included on Korea’s list of recognized countries and confirm the latest document requirements.

Official information:

Korea Road Traffic Authority
https://www.safedriving.or.kr

Source: Easy Law Information for Foreign Students and the Korea Road Traffic Authority

Have you exchanged a foreign driver’s license in Korea? Let us know which country issued your license and what the process was like.