The DVLA has launched a major change allowing Moldovan nationals to exchange their driving licences for British ones without any tests. The measure is expected to streamline procedures for thousands of drivers living in the UK.
The agreement, finalised last week, is the result of a memorandum of understanding between the UK and Moldova. According to the Department for Transport, this places Moldova alongside a small group of non-EU countries granted this preferential status.
Streamlined Process for Thousands of Motorists
The DVLA began accepting applications today from Moldovan drivers who meet the residency criteria. Under the new scheme, eligible applicants can submit their original Moldovan driving documents and receive a UK licence directly, bypassing both the theory and practical examinations.
According to Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood, this change reflects the government’s commitment to reducing unnecessary barriers while maintaining road safety. She said that this agreement is “a strong message of support from the United Kingdom to the Republic of Moldova and a recognition of the valuable contribution that Moldovan citizens make to British society.”
This streamlined system is not unlimited. According to the DVLA, applicants must apply within five years of becoming UK residents. After this period, they must follow the standard procedure, including testing. This rule, already applied to other countries with similar agreements, ensures the scheme benefits recent arrivals rather than long-term residents who may have adapted to British driving conditions through other means.
Diplomatic Milestone Strengthens UK-Moldova Ties
The inclusion of Moldova in this scheme reflects not only administrative reform but also a significant diplomatic step. According to officials, weeks of technical negotiations between the two nations’ transport authorities were required to create a functional exchange framework.
This arrangement now places Moldova in an exclusive category with EU member states and 22 other non-EU countries whose nationals can convert their licences in the UK. For Moldovan residents, this is expected to remove time-consuming and costly administrative hurdles, offering a more efficient route to compliance with UK driving regulations.
For British authorities, the deal ensures a consistent and harmonised system that upholds existing residency rules while simplifying access for eligible drivers. According to the Department for Transport, these measures maintain the integrity of UK road standards while fostering international cooperation.
