The changes will see Moldovan drivers able to travel on UK roads without needing a UK driving licence.
DVLA driving licence change kicks in today for thousands of motorists
The DVLA has launched major driving licence changes today impacting thousands of motorists. The changes will see Moldovan drivers able to travel on UK roads without needing a UK driving licence.
A consultation earlier this year sought views on allowing drivers who hold a licence to drive cars that was issued in Moldova to exchange it for an equivalent GB licence if the driver becomes resident in GB.
This change will apply in England, Scotland and Wales only. Driver licensing is devolved in Northern Ireland. From August 1, 2025, the DVLA will start processing applications from Moldovan nationals, the Labour Party government has said.
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It follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the two nations. Labour Party Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood and Moldovan Ambassador Ruslan Bolbocean finalised the arrangement last week.
It permits roughly 18,000 eligible Moldovan residents to obtain UK driving permits through a streamlined process. Speaking previously, the DVLA said: “The DVLA is proposing to allow car licences issued in Moldova to be exchanged for the GB equivalent without the need for a further driving test.
“This is provided the holders of such licences are resident in GB and can meet other licensing requirements. As holders of a car licence from Moldova will have passed a test of an equivalent standard to those in GB, we do not believe there will be a negative impact on road safety.
“Moldova driver licensing processes, documents and the information displayed on them have been considered to identify any issues that might lead to GB licences being issued inappropriately and with unacceptable risks to road safety. No issues have been identified.”
Memorandum of understanding (MoU) stating the roles and responsibilities in developing a simpler licence exchange between the UK and Moldova, involving the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), Department for Transport (DfT) and Government of the Republic of Moldova.
The Republic of Moldova will also accept the exchange of UK-issued driving licences, including those held by Moldovan citizens who obtained the right to drive while residing in the UK.