EU Driver’s License Exchange in Lithuania: A Step-by-Step Guide #
If you are an EU citizen moving to Lithuania and intend to drive, you generally need to exchange your EU/EEA driver’s license for a Lithuanian one if you become a permanent resident. Here’s a detailed guide:
1. Residency Requirements #
First, establish residency in Lithuania. To exchange your driving license, you must be a permanent resident or have resided in Lithuania for at least 185 days in a calendar year. You’ll need to register your address with the local authorities.
2. Eligibility #
- Your EU/EEA driving license must be valid.
- It must not be suspended, restricted, or revoked in the issuing country.
- You must meet the minimum age requirements for the equivalent categories in Lithuania.
3. Required Documents #
Prepare the following documents:
- Application Form: Obtain and complete the standard application form for driver’s license exchange. This is usually available at Regitra offices or their website.
- Valid EU/EEA Driving License: Provide your original driving license.
- Translation of Driving License (if needed): If your driving license is not in Lithuanian, English, or Russian, you may need to provide a certified translation. Check with Regitra for specific requirements.
- Identification Document: Present a valid passport or national ID card.
- Proof of Residency: Documents confirming your registered address in Lithuania (e.g., a declaration of residence).
- Medical Certificate: You may need to undergo a medical examination and provide a medical certificate (Form No. 083/a) confirming your fitness to drive. This is often required, especially for certain categories (e.g., C, D).
- Driver Health Declaration: A self-declaration regarding your health status.
- Photograph: A recent passport-sized photograph.
- Fee Payment: Payment of the required administrative fee. Check the current fee amount on the Regitra website.
4. Application Submission #
Submit your application and all required documents to Regitra. You can schedule an appointment online through their website to avoid long waiting times.
5. Medical Examination #
As part of the process, you might need a medical examination. This is usually done at a certified medical institution. The medical certificate confirms that you meet the health requirements for driving.
6. Knowledge Test or Driving Test #
In most cases, exchanging an EU/EEA driving license does not require you to take a theoretical knowledge test or a practical driving test. However, if your license is very old or if there are specific concerns, Regitra might require you to take a test.
7. Receiving Your Lithuanian Driving License #
Once your application is approved, you will receive your Lithuanian driving license. You will typically need to surrender your original EU/EEA driving license, which will be returned to the issuing country.
8. Important Considerations #
- Validity: Lithuanian driving licenses are generally valid for 10 years (for categories AM, A1, A2, A, B1, B, BE) or 5 years (for categories C1, C1E, C, CE, D1, D1E, D, DE).
- Address Change: If you change your address, you must notify Regitra within 30 days.
- Lost or Stolen License: Report a lost or stolen license to the police and Regitra immediately.
9. Contact Information and Resources #
- Regitra Official Website: https://www.regitra.lt/en
- Address: L. Asanavičiūtės g. 20, 04314 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Phone: +370 70 77 0000
- Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer: Regulations and procedures can change, so it’s always best to check the most current information on the Regitra website or contact them directly.
