Complete guide to getting a driver’s license in Cyprus
Guides
Getting a driver’s license in Cyprus involves several steps, from understanding eligibility to mastering the road for the actual test. This guide provides comprehensive insights into each phase, ensuring you have the knowledge and resources to navigate the process smoothly.
Quick overview
Before diving into the detailed steps, here are some quick facts every aspiring driver in Cyprus should know:
Minimum age: You must be at least 17.5 years old to apply for a learner’s license. Persons over 70 years old and individuals with disabilities will require a doctor’s note to apply for the exam.
Residency requirement: Applicants must prove they have been residents in Cyprus for at least six months.
Test languages: Theoretical and practical tests are available in both Greek and English, accommodating both local and expatriate applicants.
Validity of learner’s license: The learner’s license is valid for one year and is renewable.
Step 1: Verify your eligibility
Requirements for residents
To apply for a learner’s license in Cyprus, you need to:
Prove your age: The minimum age to apply for a theory exam is 17.5 years, and for a practical exam, it’s 18 years. Persons over 70 years old and individuals with disabilities will require a doctor’s note to apply for the exam.
Show residency: For proving residency, a “pink slip” with the appropriate issue date is one of the easiest ways. If this is not available, the list of documents can include a receipt and utility bill payments for the last six months in your name, or a rental agreement if the utility bill is in the landlord’s name. In some cases, it may also be helpful to show a stamp in your passport with the date of entry into Cyprus.
Meet health standards: Pass an eyesight test.
For Non-EU Citizens
If you’re from a non-EU country, you’re eligible to apply for a driving license in Cyprus provided you meet the residential criteria and have a valid residency permit. Additionally, driving licenses from certain non-EU countries can be converted to Cypriot licenses, subject to specific regulations.
Step 2: Prepare for and pass the knowledge exam
The initial hurdle in obtaining your Cyprus driver’s license is the knowledge exam. It covers road signs in Cyprus.
Preparation tips
Study the highway code: Familiarize yourself with all road signs, rules, and regulations.
Download the highway code
Practice tests: Engage in online practice tests which mimic the actual exam’s format.
To start your journey toward getting a driver’s license in Cyprus, you must first obtain a provisional driver’s license by applying in person at the Department of Transport.
Pass the required tests: Before you can be issued a learner’s permit, you must pass both an eyesight test and a verbal theory test on traffic signs. These tests can usually be taken immediately or you can schedule them for a more convenient time. The theory test is available in both Greek and English to accommodate all applicants.
Submit the required documents and fee: After passing the tests, return to the front office with all necessary documents and the test pass document.
Passport-sized photos: Two recent identical photographs.
Proof of residency: Such as utility bills or lease agreements.
Identification: A valid ID or passport.
Step 4: Learn to drive — practical training
Once you pass the theory exam, you receive a learner’s permit valid for one year. After 21 days of obtaining it, you are eligible to take the driving test. With a learner’s permit, you can drive a car if a licensed driver over 25 with at least 5 years of driving experience accompanies you, the car has third-party insurance, and you have ‘L’ plates displayed on the vehicle. Highway driving is prohibited unless accompanied by a licensed driving instructor.
Rules for learner drivers
Display ‘L’ plates: Clearly display L plates on the front and back of the vehicle.
Accompanied by a licensed driver: You must be accompanied by a driver who has held a valid license for at least five years.
No highway driving: Learner drivers are not allowed on highways unless accompanied by a licensed driving instructor.
Finding a driving instructor
Choose a reputable instructor or driving school that is registered and approved by the transport authority in Cyprus.
Step 5: Passing the practical driving test
After sufficient practice, you’re ready to take the practical driving test.
What to expect
Show proficient use of the car’s controls.
Demonstrate safe driving practices: Includes observation, positioning, and signaling.
Navigate various road types: Including intersections, roundabouts, and possibly highway sections.
Test day
Bring your learner’s permit, a roadworthy vehicle, and ensure you are accompanied by your instructor or another licensed adult.
Step 6: Obtaining your full driving license
Once you pass the practical driving test, you can apply for your full driving license.
Final steps:
Submit your test results at the Department of Road Transport.
Pay the licensing fee.
Receive your full driving license.
Congratulations! You’re now a licensed driver in Cyprus. The driver’s license is issued for 15 years. Remember, the key to safe driving does not end with the issuance of a license. Continuous learning and adherence to road safety norms are crucial for a lifetime of safe driving.
