New Driving Licence Exchange Deal with Moldova: What You Need to Know

As of July 31, 2025, the UK has added the Republic of Moldova to its list of countries whose driving licences can be exchanged for a British licence. This development stems from the latest government order made on July 7, 2025, under the Road Traffic Act 1988, and it aims to streamline the process for Moldovan drivers wishing to drive in the UK.

Key Points of the New Order:

1. Moldova Joins the Exchange Club: Moldova is now officially recognized by the UK as having a satisfactory system for issuing driving licences, specifically for cars (Category B). This means Moldovan drivers can swap their licences for a UK equivalent without the need for additional tests.

2. Automatic Transmission Clause: If a driver's test in Moldova was conducted in a vehicle with automatic transmission, the UK exchange will only permit driving automatic vehicles. This limitation applies even if the original Moldovan licence allows the holder to drive manual vehicles.

3. Streamlined Process: This initiative is part of the UK’s broader effort to simplify travel and residency requirements for international drivers, ensuring that those coming from Moldova can more easily integrate into UK road systems.

4. Countries Already in the Scheme: Moldova joins a list of other countries such as Australia, Canada, Japan, and South Africa, among others, whose licences are also exchangeable in the UK.

This move is expected to benefit Moldovan nationals residing in or moving to the UK, providing them with a straightforward path to obtaining a British driving licence. It's a significant step in promoting international mobility and understanding between the two nations.

For further details, you can find the full legislation on the official UK legislation website.