How to Obtain a Driver’s License in Northern Cyprus
Obtaining a driving license in Northern Cyprus is possible through a driving school and the state traffic department: theory and practice (usually 10–20 lessons), followed by theoretical and practical exams. Until July 31, 2026, an accelerated practical exam option is available: you can take the exam within 5 working days after application if you additionally pay a fee of 20% of the current minimum wage (on top of the standard exam fee). The average cost of a driving school course at the end of 2025 is 20,000 TL–25,000 TL.
Theoretical Training
The first step is choosing a driving school. Check reviews, ask acquaintances, or consult our car chat. People there often share up-to-date advice about schools and instructors.
After signing a contract with a driving school, the theory course begins. It is usually conducted in Turkish or English, so those who are not proficient in these languages are advised to study basic terminology in advance. You can also study the theory at home in your own language, but the exam is only available in Turkish or English.
Practical Lessons
After completing the theoretical course, the instructor will allow you to start driving lessons. The number of practice hours depends on the student’s level and the chosen license category. Usually, training takes 10 to 20 lessons.
Tip: choose an instructor who speaks a language you understand and explains calmly — this greatly increases your chances of passing the exam on the first attempt.
Taking the Exam
When the instructor deems you ready, they will register you for the exam at the state traffic department. The exam consists of two parts:
- Theoretical part — testing knowledge of traffic rules and signs.
- Practical part — assessing driving skills on a closed course and in real conditions.
Accelerated Practical Exam Within 5 Working Days
Northern Cyprus offers an accelerated driving practical exam procedure: until July 31, 2026, you can get a practical exam date within 5 working days from the application date if you pay an additional fee.
- Timeframe: within 5 working days from the date of application.
- Additional fee: 20% of the current minimum wage (on top of the standard exam fee).
- Validity period: until July 31, 2026.
- Legal basis: the decision is published in the Official Gazette (Resmî Gazete, 29 Ocak 2026).
Exam questions are asked in Turkish or English. After completing the theoretical stage, a vision test is conducted (the examiner may ask you to identify a vehicle number in the distance — a simple check of visual acuity).
Initially, you will receive a temporary driving license valid for a few weeks. The main license can be collected approximately a month later.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a License in Northern Cyprus
In which countries are Northern Cyprus licenses recognized?
Licenses issued by competent authorities in Northern Cyprus are officially recognized in Turkey. However, if you have less than two years of driving experience, you cannot rent a car in Turkey. In other countries, Northern Cyprus licenses have no legal force, but you can obtain an international driving permit based on them.
How much does training and the exam cost?
At the end of 2025, the average cost of a full course including theory, practice, and exam ranges from 20,000 TL to 25,000 TL. Administrative fees for issuing the license are added to this. Detailed rates can be found in the article “Driving Licenses in Northern Cyprus”.
Can the practical exam be taken faster than the queue?
Yes. Until July 31, 2026, you can take the practical exam within 5 working days after applying if you pay an additional fee of 20% of the current minimum wage (paid on top of the standard exam fee).
Where do you obtain a driving license?
The initial license registration takes place in Nicosia at the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Department.
Phone: +90 392 228 2714
Check our car chat — it has over 5,000 participants sharing personal experience, exam tips, and advice on choosing a driving school.
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