Translation and licence exchange are different
A translation reproduces the information on the licence in another language. The competent authority decides on exchange or recognition. A completed translation does not confirm that a licence is eligible for exchange or that its holder may drive in a particular country.
A foreign driving licence for use in Türkiye
NVİ’s document list for exchanging a foreign licence includes a Turkish translation approved by a notary or consulate. Check the current requirements for your licence and application with the population office. We define the translation scope using the requirements you provide.
A Turkish licence for use abroad
Licence exchange, an official application and temporary use abroad may follow different rules. Tell us the country, receiving authority and purpose. A translation and an international driving permit should not be treated as automatically interchangeable documents.
We review the front and back together
Categories, validity dates, document numbers and restriction codes may appear on different sides. Prepare clear images of both sides and any additional notes. We check the relationships between categories and dates and do not add an entitlement that is absent from the source.
An education document may also be requested
NVİ’s exchange checklist also addresses education documents and translations of foreign education records. If your authority requests a translated diploma, you can review our diploma and transcript page. Share the complete document list so that related translations can be planned together.
Agree the quote and delivery before starting
The language pair, pages, legibility, number of copies and requested certifications affect the quote. Translation fees and any agreed notarisation or delivery costs are listed separately. We confirm the schedule after reviewing the document. The authority’s processing time is separate.
Details we check
- Both sides and any additional notes
- Name, document number and issuing authority
- Licence categories and their corresponding dates
- Restriction codes as written in the source
- The receiving authority’s language and delivery requirements
Information to prepare
- Prepare clear images of both sides.
- State the issuing country and intended use.
- Share the authority’s current translation requirements.
- Mention any education documents requested with the licence.
- Specify the target language, deadline and copies needed.
Frequently asked questions
01Does a translation let me exchange my licence?+
It may be one document in the application. The competent authority decides eligibility and carries out the licence exchange.
02Do you need both sides of the licence?+
Yes, please prepare both sides for review. Category dates, restriction codes or notes may appear on the reverse.
03Is approval by a notary or consulate required?+
NVİ’s foreign-licence exchange checklist refers to a Turkish translation approved by a notary or consulate. Confirm the current requirements and the procedure to follow with the receiving office.
04Does a translation guarantee that I can drive abroad?+
No. Recognition, permitted use and any additional documents are determined by the destination country’s competent authorities, not by the translation alone.
Guides and standards
Sworn translation, notarisation and apostilles: what do you need?Quality in sworn translation and official documentsISO 17100 and the translation quality processOfficial sources you can consult
Türkiye Ministry of Interior, NVİ — Driving licence questions (Turkish)NVİ — Official driving licence and civil register e-services (Turkish)Content updated: