Getting your first Cyprus driving licence starts long before you sit behind the wheel — it starts with paperwork. The good news is that the process is straightforward once you know exactly what to bring. This guide walks you through who can apply, the documents you need, the forms involved, the fees, and where to hand everything in, so you can get it right on the first visit.
If you would like the full picture of the journey from theory to full licence, read our complete Cyprus licence guide alongside this checklist.
Who can apply (in brief)
Before gathering documents, make sure you qualify: you must be at least 17.5 (for the theory test and learner's licence) or 18 (for the practical test), have been a resident of Cyprus for at least six months, and — if you are not Cypriot — hold a valid residence permit. Anyone over 70, or with a relevant medical condition, also needs a doctor's health certificate.
That is the short version. For the full eligibility rules and every other stage of the journey, see the complete Cyprus licence guide — this guide stays focused on the paperwork itself.
Your documents checklist
This is the heart of it. Take the originals and a photocopy of each, because the office will usually want both. Bring:
- Proof of identity — your national ID card or passport (original and a copy).
- Proof of residency — the easiest is the "pink slip" / Yellow Slip (residence permit) showing a suitable issue date. If you do not have one, bring utility bills in your name for the last six months, or a rental agreement if the bills are in your landlord's name. A passport entry stamp showing your arrival date can also help.
- Two passport-style photographs — recent and identical, approximately 45 x 35 mm.
- Eyesight / vision check — you must be able to read a vehicle number plate from about 20 metres. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them.
- Completed application form — the learner's licence application (see below).
- Theory test pass slip — the certificate confirming you passed the preliminary eyesight and road-signs examination.
- Health certificate — only if you are 70 or older, or have a relevant medical condition.
The application forms
The main document is the learner's (provisional) driver's licence application form, known as the TOM 7D. You can pick it up at any Department of Road Transport office or download it from the official Road Transport Department website; many driving instructors can also provide a copy.
A few notes on the forms:
- Fill it in clearly and sign where required — an unsigned form is the most common reason for a wasted trip.
- The form comes with an accompanying guidance sheet that explains each field; read it before you start.
- If you already hold a valid licence or learner's licence, you will usually be asked to attach it to the application.
Form codes can change over time, so if anything looks different from what you expected, confirm the current form with the office or the official site rather than relying on an old version.
Fees at a glance
Fees are modest, but they are paid in separate steps and the exact amounts can change. As a guide:
- Theory and eyesight test — approximately €10.
- Issuing the learner's (provisional) licence — around €20.
- The practical driving test is charged separately when you book it later.
Most offices accept cash and debit/credit cards. Always check the latest fee on the official Road Transport Department site before you go, and keep your payment receipts.
Where and how to apply
You apply in person (or through an authorised representative) at any of the following:
- District Offices of the Department of Road Transport (DoRT) in Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca and Paphos.
- Citizens Service Centres (ΚΕΠ / KEP).
- Citizen Service points of the Department of Postal Services.
In practice the visit often happens in two parts. First you take the eyesight test and the verbal theory test on road signs (available in both Greek and English). Once you pass, you return to the front desk with your documents, the pass slip and the fee, and the learner's licence is issued.
Your learner's licence is valid for one year and is renewable. It is a paper licence valid only within the Republic of Cyprus. It lets you practise on the road provided you display L-plates, are accompanied by an experienced licensed driver, and the car is properly insured.
Want to walk in confident on test day? Try our free road signs test until you can answer the questions without hesitation.
Quick checklist recap
Grab this list before you head out the door:
- ID or passport (original + copy)
- Proof of six months' residency — pink slip / Yellow Slip, utility bills, or rental agreement
- Two passport-style photos (about 45 x 35 mm)
- Glasses or contacts, if you use them, for the eyesight check
- Completed and signed TOM 7D application form
- Residence permit (for non-Cypriots) + copy
- Health certificate, if you are 70+ or it applies to you
- Fees (≈ €10 test, ≈ €20 issue) — cash or card
Get the paperwork right once and the rest of your driving journey becomes much smoother. Good luck, and drive safe — remember Cyprus drives on the left.