Getting a Driving Licence in Northern Cyprus
How to get a TRNC driving licence, convert a foreign licence, and what the test involves.
Driving in the TRNC with a Foreign Licence
You may drive in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus with a valid foreign driving licence for up to 6 months from the date of your residence permit issuance.
Converting a Foreign Licence
After 6 months, you must convert your foreign licence to a TRNC licence.
Required Documents
- •Valid foreign driving licence
- •Passport
- •Residence permit
- •Passport-sized photographs (2)
- •Translation of foreign licence (if not in Turkish or English)
- •Medical certificate from a TRNC doctor
Process
1. Get a medical certificate — Visit a TRNC-licensed doctor for a basic eye and health check
2. Submit documents at the Driving Licence Office (Sürücü Kursu)
3. Pay the fee — approximately 500–800 TL
4. Receive your TRNC licence
Most foreign licences can be converted without a driving test. However, some non-recognised licences may require a theory test.
Getting a New TRNC Driving Licence
If you do not have a foreign licence, you must take the full TRNC driving test.
Step 1: Enrol at a Driving School
Register at any TRNC-licensed driving school (Sürücü Kursu). Cost: ~3,000–5,000 TL.
Step 2: Theory Test
- •Format: Multiple choice on a computer
- •Language: Turkish (English translations may be available)
- •Topics: Road signs, traffic rules, first aid, basic mechanics
- •Pass mark: 70%
Step 3: Practical Test
- •Format: On-road driving with an examiner
- •Duration: ~20–30 minutes
- •Skills assessed: Starting, stopping, parking, hill start, junction navigation
Step 4: Receive Licence
After passing both tests, you receive a B-class driving licence (cars), valid for 10 years.
TRNC Driving Licence Classes
| Class | Vehicle Type |
|---|---|
| A | Motorcycle (over 125cc) |
| A1 | Motorcycle (up to 125cc) |
| B | Car (up to 3,500 kg) |
| C | Truck (over 3,500 kg) |
| D | Bus / Minibus |
| E | Trailer |
Costs
| Item | Cost (TL) |
|---|---|
| Driving school course | 3,000–5,000 |
| Theory test | ~200 |
| Practical test | ~300 |
| Licence issuance | ~400 |
| Medical certificate | ~200 |
| **Total** | **~4,000–6,000** |
Sıkça Sorulan Sorular
Can I drive in Northern Cyprus with a UK driving licence?+
Yes. You can drive with a valid UK licence for up to 6 months from the date your residence permit is issued. After that, you must convert it to a TRNC licence, which can usually be done without a test.
How much does a TRNC driving licence cost?+
If converting a foreign licence, the cost is approximately 500–800 TL including medical certificate and fees. If taking the full test, driving school costs 3,000–5,000 TL plus test and licence fees.
Do I need to take a driving test to convert my licence?+
Most recognised foreign licences (UK, EU, Turkey, USA) can be converted without a driving test. You only need a medical certificate and to submit documents at the Driving Licence Office.