The government has approved new rules for issuing driver's licenses: the validity period will depend on the category.

Changes to the driver's license issuance rules

According to Укрінформ — Транспорт: The government has approved changes to the rules for issuing driver's licenses that align Ukrainian regulations with European standards and enhance road safety. According to the new provisions, the validity period of driver's licenses will depend on the type of vehicle.

• Driver's licenses for motorcycles and passenger cars will be issued for 15 years.
• For freight and passenger transport, the validity period will be 5 years.
• Mandatory medical examinations during the exchange of driver's licenses will be conducted every 15 years.
• Drivers involved in passenger and freight transportation will be required to exchange their licenses every 5 years with mandatory medical examinations.

Previously issued permanent driver's licenses remain valid until the specified date on the document. Drivers are also not required to retake tests when exchanging driver's licenses unless otherwise specified by law.

“The government has approved changes to the rules for issuing driver's licenses and allowing citizens to operate vehicles. The main goal of these changes is to gradually bring Ukrainian regulations in line with European standards and enhance road safety.”

Igor Klymenko, Head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs

He also emphasized the importance of regular health status confirmation for drivers: “After the reinstatement of mandatory medical examinations during the exchange of driver's licenses, regular confirmation (every 15 years) of health status will become one of the key elements for allowing individuals to operate vehicles. This aligns with European practices and will contribute to improving safety on the roads.”

Impact of changes on road safety

Thus, the new changes are aimed at modernizing traffic rules in Ukraine and aligning them with international standards.

These changes may significantly affect road safety in Ukraine, as regular medical examinations will help identify potential health problems in drivers that could pose a risk to safety on the roads. Aligning rules with European standards may also improve Ukraine's image on the international stage and facilitate interaction with European countries on transport issues.