If you move abroad should you take a driving test in the country you move to?

Question

There have been two accidents close to where I live this week leaving 3 people dead, both caused by Polish drivers.

I wouldn't mind taking a test if I moved abroad.

Answer 1

In the UK I believe the Polish dont have to take a UK test if they already have a polish license. I would imagine it would be the same abroad too but there may be some countries who give you a set time - 6 months for example to take their tests.

Answer 2

You do not need to take a re-test in a European Union country, BUT, I would advise anyone  to take some additional lessons if they move abroad, so they will be conversant with local traffic laws. The problems are caused when "foreign" drivers forget which country they are in,- usually when talking to passengers in their "home" language, and revert to their "old" driving habits - driving on the  "wrong" side of the road !!

Answer 3

Polish drivers do not have to take a UK driving tests, both countries are members of the EU, and all national licences issued by EU member states are treated as equal. It works both ways, UK expats do not have to take tests when moving to Spain, France or Poland.

I'm a Slovak national, lived for couple of years in London, using my EU style driving licence issued by Slovak authorities. My car (bought in the UK) was insured with British companies, I always informed them about my driving licence (so they can check whether I had any convictions) and they insured me as a UK driver.

Any EU national can simply exchange their license for another one in other EU country when they move. Your Polish neighbours can get a UK licence without taking tests. But they don't have to exchange it.

It goes even further, while I lived in the UK, I needed an International driving permit to travel to the USA. I got a British permit from the British AA based on my Slovak licence.

However, if I moved to Canada, I would have to take the test to get a full (not provisional licence). But I'd have to provide documents about my driving history to get a full one in Ontario province. However, a UK national with a UK license can simply exchange it for an Ontario license without taking tests.

I guess in other countries you can use your national licence and international permit for a limited time, after that you'd have to take a test.

But I DO understand your point, my country is neighbouring Poland and I have to say, Polish drivers are terrible, I think they have one of the most deadly roads in the EU.

Answer 4

If you MOVE, as in emigrate, rather than go visit, you will be required to do so.

Some nations have reciprocity agreements regarding driving privileges.  If that is not the case between your home country and wherever you are going to be, you will again have no choice, even on a short visit.

Answer 5

I don't think it's a requirement.

Answer 6

considering that new british drivers are required to take the theory test now yes i do think so.

Answer 7

yes.you should be made to retake your test.

Answer 8

you could if you wanted but a brittish lisence will do

Answer 9

Different driving and rule, I would recommend it.