Good news for Moldovans abroad: Moldovan driving licenses now recognized in the UK and Italy
Driving licenses issued by the authorities of the Republic of Moldova will be recognized in Italy and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland without requiring additional exams. On Wednesday, July 30, the Cabinet of Ministers in Chisinau approved the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Moldova and the Government of the Italian Republic, as well as the Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of Moldova and the Government of the United Kingdom regarding the mutual exchange of driving licenses.
Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi, who is also the Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced during a government meeting that the Memorandum of Understanding with the United Kingdom, signed in London on July 21, 2025, will take effect on August 1. This agreement allows Moldovans residing in the United Kingdom for less than five years to exchange their driving licenses without having to take theoretical or practical exams.
"The United Kingdom has included the Republic of Moldova in the list of countries whose driving licenses are recognized, alongside EU countries and 22 other non-EU states. This is an important measure that reduces administrative and insurance costs for our citizens," emphasized Popșoi.
The minister noted that the converted British license will reflect the driving experience and the issue date of the original Moldovan license, potentially leading to lower insurance rates.
"Soon, when we become members of the European Union, we will also benefit from additional similar facilities," Prime Minister Dorin Recean highlighted.
Additionally, the government approved an Agreement on the mutual recognition of driving licenses with the Italian Republic, which was signed in Rome on July 9, 2025. This agreement pertains to citizens with permanent residence in Italy or the Republic of Moldova and allows for a quick and simplified exchange of driving documents.
"This agreement is significant support for our largest diaspora, the one in Italy. It will facilitate the mobility of citizens without requiring additional exams, based on a clear and efficient legal framework," stated Mihai Popșoi.
According to the minister, both agreements reinforce the government’s commitment to supporting the diaspora and serve as effective instruments that align with the national development plan.
The Republic of Moldova has already established similar agreements with Latvia, Spain, Greece, Israel, Turkey, Albania, and Lithuania. An agreement with France has been initialed and is set to enter into force soon.
Additionally, there is a Joint Declaration of Intent between the Republic of Moldova and Germany on this topic. Earlier this July, the government agreed to begin negotiations for a bilateral agreement that would provide the same benefits with Ireland.
