Ukraine is preparing a major overhaul of the rules for obtaining driver’s licenses: what will change

Ukraine plans to significantly overhaul its system for licensing drivers. The relevant changes are outlined in draft laws and initiatives aimed at aligning Ukrainian legislation with European road safety standards.

Among the key changes is a potential lowering of the minimum age for obtaining a license to operate certain types of vehicles. Specifically, the proposal is to allow individuals to drive mopeds and light vehicles starting at age 15. A Class B driver’s license will be available starting at age 17, though with certain restrictions—only when accompanied by an experienced driver.

There are also plans to revise the requirements for operating high-powered motorcycles and passenger vehicles. For certain categories of vehicles, a minimum driving experience requirement or a higher minimum age—ranging from 21 to 24 years—will be introduced.

The legislature is placing particular emphasis on the digitization of documents. Driver’s licenses and vehicle registration certificates may eventually be converted to digital format via the “Diya” app. As a result, a smartphone will effectively serve as a full-fledged carrier of a driver’s documents.

At the same time, obtaining a driver’s license may become more difficult. This involves tightening controls over driver training, improving the procedures for taking exams, medical examinations, and the assessment of practical driving skills.

In addition, it is proposed to introduce additional safeguards for citizens in their dealings with the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ service centers. Specifically, in the event of a refusal to issue a certificate or provide an administrative service, the authority will be required to provide a written justification for such a decision. This will be in accordance with the principles of the Law of Ukraine “On Administrative Procedure,” which provides for an individual’s right to a reasoned decision and the right to appeal it.

In essence, this involves Ukraine’s gradual transition to the European model for driver licensing: one that takes a more flexible approach to age requirements, but at the same time imposes stricter standards regarding drivers’ knowledge, skills, and responsibility.