Ukrainian refugees can exchange their local driver’s license for an Irish one here

Transport Secretary Eamon Ryan has announced that Ukrainian refugees can now have an Irish driving licence.

Minister Ryan today signed an executive order allowing Ukrainians staying in Ireland temporarily because of the conflict to exchange their domestic driving licenses for an Irish driving license so they can drive their cars while in the country.

Mr Ryan said this will make it easier for people to move around and access work, school or other essential public services.

The new move follows an announcement earlier this week that more and improved public transport services will be introduced to support Ukrainians housed in more rural areas.

Minister Ryan said it was vital that Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war-torn country have a means of transport while living in Ireland.

“After providing accommodation and lodging, one of the most important things we can do for our Ukrainian guests is to allow them to move easily where they are first, and then across the country where they have family and friends,” he said.

“This order allows Ukrainians to temporarily exchange their Ukrainian driving licenses for an Irish driving licence. It works similarly to renting a car when we are in another country, for example, and comes with the same warnings that users need to be fully aware of road traffic rules in that country.”

“I urge anyone applying for an Irish driving license to take the time to familiarize themselves with the Irish road system.”

The minister said he hoped the move would give refugees “more freedom” in accessing work and school.

“I hope that this arrangement, combined with the earlier move to expand and improve public transport in certain rural areas, will give Ukrainians who have taken refuge in Ireland more freedom to explore our country, but more importantly access to.” To have work, school, college or to visit family and friends while they are here,” he said.

The new driver’s license is valid for 12 months and is only valid for cars.

The Chief Executive Officer of the RSA said he welcomed the minister’s announcement that he would “provide a way” for Ukrainian refugees who have a Ukrainian driver’s license to drive here.

Sam Waide said, “The RSA provides information in Ukrainian on our website and we will also keep other relevant governmental and non-governmental organizations updated on the details of the license exchange agreements.”

“The RSA will be present at ferry ports to provide information to Ukrainian refugees arriving by car and we are making arrangements to provide information to all refugees already in the country.”

“The national driver’s license service, which operates on behalf of the RSA, is also prepared to accept driver’s license exchange applications from Ukrainian refugees.”