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Obtaining a driving licence in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC)

  • Writer: John Nordmann
    John Nordmann
  • 2 days ago
  • 3 min read
TRNC Driving Licence
TRNC Driving Licence

Obtaining a driving licence in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) as a foreigner involves several steps, including mandatory training, tests, and associated fees. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:


📝 Eligibility Criteria

  • Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old.

  • Residency: A valid TRNC residence permit is mandatory.

  • Foreign Licence Holders: If you possess a valid foreign driving licence, you can drive in TRNC for up to 3 months. Beyond this period, obtaining a TRNC licence is required to ensure insurance validity and legal compliance. 


📄 Required Documents

Prepare the following documents:

  • Completed application form (available in English and Turkish).

  • Original passport and a photocopy of the photo page.

  • Valid TRNC residence permit.

  • Two passport-sized photographs (3.5x4.5 cm).

  • Original and photocopy of your current national driving licence (if applicable).

  • Medical certificate (if required).

  • Proof of passing theory and practical tests (if applicable). 



🚗 Step-by-Step Process

  1. Enroll in a Driving School: All applicants must register with a local driving school. The school provides both theoretical and practical training. Theoretical materials are usually available in English or Turkish. 

  2. Theory Test: After completing theoretical lessons, you'll take a theory test focusing on road signs and traffic rules. The test is available in English or Turkish.If you wear glasses the examiner will check yur eyesight and may decide to refer you for an eyesight test. 

  3. Practical Training: Undergo a minimum of five days of driving lessons, including eight hours during the day and two hours at night, supervised by a certified instructor. 

  4. Practical Test: Upon completing the training, you'll take a practical driving test on public roads. Success in this test is mandatory for licence issuance. 

  5. Application Submission: Submit all required documents, test results, and fees to the local Traffic Department or Tax Office. First-time applicants must apply in person. 

  6. Licence Issuance: After processing, you'll receive a temporary licence, followed by a permanent plastic card licence within 1-2 months. 


💰 Fees and Costs (as of 2025)

  • Driving School Training & Exams: Between 15,000 and 25,000 Turkish Lira (TL), depending on the school and package. 

  • Licence Issuance Fees:

    • 2 years: 1,500 TL

    • 3 years: 2,000 TL

    • 5 years: 3,000 TL

    • 10 years: 5,000 TL 

  • Additional Fees:

    • Theory Test: Approximately 775 TL

    • Practical Test: Approximately 1,065 TL

    • Temporary Licence: Approximately 775 TL 

Note: Fees are subject to change; it's advisable to confirm current rates with the local authorities or driving schools.


🔁 Converting a Foreign Driving Licence

If you hold a valid foreign driving licence:

  • Application: Submit your foreign licence and required documents to the Driver's Licence Renewal Unit.

  • Training: Attend a driving school within one week of application, completing at least five days of lessons (eight hours daytime, two hours nighttime).

  • Certification: Obtain a completion certificate from the driving school.

  • Submission: Submit the certificate along with your application to receive a TRNC driving licence.


🌍 Licence Validity and Recognition

  • Within TRNC: The TRNC driving licence is valid throughout Northern Cyprus.

  • International Recognition: While the TRNC is not widely recognized internationally, the TRNC driving licence is accepted in Turkey and, for up to 12 months, in the Republic of Cyprus. 


📌 Additional Tips

  • Language: Theory tests are available in English and Turkish. Ensure you're comfortable with the language of instruction.

  • Preparation: Start studying for the theory test early and practice driving regularly to build confidence.

  • Documentation: Keep all receipts and certificates safe, as they are required for the application process.

  • Renewal: Be aware of your licence's expiration date and renew it timely to avoid re-taking tests.


Here's a list of driving schools in Northern Cyprus, organized by city:


Lefkoşa

  • Etkin Şoför Okulu

  • Merkan Driving School

  • Yiğit Şoför Okulu

    • Phone: +90 533 868 2544

  • Seyhun Bikmaz Şoför Okulu

  • Gerçek Tilki Şoför Okulu

    • Phone: +90 542 855 8313

  • Deniz Yağızerler Şoför Okulu

    • Phone: +90 533 843 3557


Girne

  • Özbek Şoför Okulu

    • English, Turkish and Russian-speakers available.

    • Phone: +90 392 815 1036

  • Şah-mat

    • Phone: +90 533 836 1815

  • Yüksel Driving School

  • Özgüneş Driving School

    • Phone: +90 542 887 8797

  • Gerçek Tilki Driving School

    • Phone: +90 533 856 0567


Gazimağusa

  • Ergin Driving School

  • Tilki Driving School

    • Phone: +90 392 366 32904

  • İrfan Driving School

    • Phone: +90 533 861 0547

  • Fatoş Driving School

    • Phone: +90 548 864 9340


Esentepe

  • Kurşun Driving School

    • Phone: +90 533 862 0660


Güzelyurt

  • Yiğit Driving School

    • Phone: +90 533 868 25


These schools offer both theoretical and practical driving lessons, and many provide instruction in Turkish and English. Some also offer motorcycle training. It's advisable to contact the schools directly to inquire about course offerings, schedules, and fees.

 
 
 

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