Driving in Russia with a Turkish driving licence: checklist

Before driving

• 1. Check that your driving licence is the new typeOld-type paper driving licences have been invalid since November 2025; use a new-type Turkish driving licence.
• 2. Comply with driving licence restrictionsComply with restrictions stated on your driving licence, such as wearing glasses, as well as Russia's age and category rules.
• 3. Show the international permit with the national licenceIf you use an international driving permit, you must present it together with your Turkish national driving licence.
• 4. Take the required documents with youKeep your driving licence, vehicle registration certificate and insurance policy in the vehicle.
• 5. Obtain compulsory insuranceIf the vehicle is not covered by an international insurance system, obtain compulsory motor third-party liability insurance.
• 6. Obtain a Russian licence for professional drivingIf you will work as a taxi driver, courier or driver, obtain a Russian driving licence in addition to your work permit.
• 7. Switch to a Russian licence within the deadlineIf you have obtained a residence permit or citizenship, obtain a Russian driving licence within 1 year after that date.
• 8. Apply for licence conversionFor categories B, A and M, a theory exam and medical report are required; for categories C and D, driving school and an exam are required.
• 9. Renew your old licence at a consulateMake an appointment and renew your old-type licence in person at the representative offices in Moscow, Kazan, Krasnodar or St. Petersburg.konsolosluk.gov.tr(Official site)
  EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY IN MOSCOW Consulates and Embassies · MoscowREPUBLIC OF TURKEY ST. PETERSBURG CONSULATE GENERALConsulates and Embassies · Saint PetersburgGENERAL CONSULATE IN KAZANConsulates and Embassies · Kazansky District, TYUAll (11) →