Driving licenceTurkey

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Turkey. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


1. Driving licence

A driving licence is an official document authorising a person to drive one or more specified categories of motor vehicle. It may contain conditions, restrictions, category codes and expiry dates that determine which vehicles the holder may drive.

Drivers must hold a licence that is valid for the vehicle category and jurisdiction concerned. A licence may be provisional, full, restricted, suspended or withdrawn, and additional qualifications may be required for professional driving.

Which driving-licence entitlement is needed for an ordinary car in Turkey?

In Turkey, an ordinary passenger car generally falls under category B, subject to the vehicle and trailer rules. A different entitlement may be needed for motorcycles, heavy vehicles, trailers or passenger transport.

🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Act Articles 38–39; Regulation 75 and 88, entitlement and foreign recognition

🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full Traffic Regulation copy, relevant unchanged technical provisions; older copy, not a current consolidation

Can a visitor drive in Turkey using a driving licence issued abroad?

Recognition depends on where the licence was issued, the category, its validity and the visitor’s status or length of stay. Check the local licensing authority before driving; temporary residence or employment can change the conditions.

🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Act Articles 38–39; Regulation 75 and 88, entitlement and foreign recognition

🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full Traffic Regulation copy, relevant unchanged technical provisions; older copy, not a current consolidation

Does an International Driving Permit replace the original licence in Turkey?

No. An International Driving Permit (IDP) accompanies the underlying valid driving licence; it does not replace it. Carry both when using an IDP and check which permit or translation is accepted for your licence and visit.

🔗 gov.uk • UK Government, IDP use with the underlying licence

🔗 gov.uk • UK Government, driving documents for visitors to Turkey