Cyprus Driving Licence β€” What You Need to Know

This guide explains how driving licences work in the Republic of Cyprus, including who can use their licence, how to get a Cyprus licence, and important rules and details.


πŸ“Œ General Points

  • The information refers to full non-vocational driving licences (standard licences for cars, motorcycles, etc.).
  • Since 29 June 2015, Cyprus has issued EU-style photo-card licences.

πŸ‘€ Using a Driving Licence in Cyprus

βœ… Residents from EU Countries

If you live in Cyprus and have a valid EU driving licence:

  • You can keep driving with your existing licence until it expires, as long as it’s valid and you meet Cyprus’s minimum age rules.
  • You may exchange it for a Cypriot driving licence on a like-for-like basis.

πŸ“Œ Note: If your licence is in a language other than Greek or English, you must provide a certified translation.


πŸ“ How to Apply for a Cyprus Driving Licence

If you want to obtain a Cyprus licence, you’ll usually do this in person at:

  • a Transport Department District Office,
  • a Citizen Service Centre (CSC),
  • or a Post Office Citizen Centre (KE.PO.).

πŸ“„ Required Documents

To apply, you generally need:

  1. A completed TOM 7 application form can be completed in English (the form is only in Greek).
  2. A passport or ID and a copy.
  3. Proof you’ve lived in Cyprus for at least six months (utility bills are commonly used). (See Note below).
  4. Two passport-standard photographs, if you’re not applying in person.
  5. Payment of the licence fee (€40 if under 65; free if older).

πŸ“ŒNote: If the applicant is married and the utility bills are in the other’s name, the applicant will need to take their marriage certificate and a copy. If the applicant is cohabiting and the utility bills are in the name of another party, both may be required to swear an affidavit stating that they are partners residing at the address. This may be done at a Citizen Service Centre, Court, or by an authorised person.

πŸ”Ž Students must also prove they are enrolled full-time for at least 6 months.

When exchanging an existing licence, you must surrender the original and provide two copies of all pages.


πŸͺͺ Temporary Licence

After applying, you’ll be given a temporary paper licence, allowing you to drive legally in Cyprus while your photo card is being prepared.


πŸ“† Licence Validity

  • Most categories (e.g., cars and motorcycles) are valid for 15 years.
  • Larger vehicles (e.g., buses or trucks) are usually valid for 5 years.
  • Older paper licences (issued before 19th January 2013) are valid until they expire, except those that expire beyond 19th January 2033. They must be replaced by that date.

🩺 Medical Requirements

In some cases, you must submit a medical certificate signed by a doctor, especially if:

  • You are age 70 or older,
  • You are applying for licences in certain vehicle categories (e.g., C, D).

🌍 For Non-EU Residents

Some non-EU countries have agreements that allow licence exchange without retesting, but details vary.


πŸ“Œ Summary

  • EU licences are accepted until expiry and can be exchanged.
  • Cyprus licence applications require proof of residency, a valid ID, and photos
  • Licences last for up to 15 or 5 years, depending on the vehicle category, and 3 years for over 70 years