Potentially significant changes may be on the horizon for thousands drivers across the UK, according to an announcement by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). In a notable update, it was revealed that Ukrainian nationals residing in Britain might see their driving licence validity period extended.
The government agency has initiated a public consultation on the proposal, urging people to contribute their viewpoints. If the plan is sanctioned, it will permit Ukrainian licence holders to legally drive in the country for an additional 18 months, adding to the current limit of 36 months.
The DVLA clarified its intentions with a statement: “We are proposing an additional extension of 18 months, beyond the current 36 month period, of the Ukrainian driving licence exchange policy. This policy, allowing Ukrainian driving licence holders to be treated as holding a Great Britain (GB) driving licence within GB, will increase the overall time to 54 months. The time of use begins after the holder becomes resident.”
The origin of this policy dates back to May 2021, when regulations were introduced permitting the exchange of a Ukrainian car licence for a British one without the necessity of passing a UK driving test – a move made after the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency acknowledged the equivalency of Ukrainian driving tests with those conducted in Great Britain.
MP Lilian Greenwood, the parliamentary under-secretary of state for Future of Roads, said: “The UK has consistently shown its support and commitment to Ukraine and until the conflict is resolved, we will continue to do so. My department has been actively engaged in making the transition to life in the UK as seamless as possible for those arriving here under such difficult circumstances, and initiatives such as the Free Onward Travel Scheme have all made it easier for Ukrainians to travel and settle into UK life.
“We recognise, however, that continuing this transition is not always straightforward, and one area where Ukrainian arrivals must adapt is in motoring. The continued ability of Ukrainians to get around is integral to integrating, socialising, accessing healthcare and working during their time in the UK.”
Greenwood also disclosed a consultation on proposals allowing Ukrainians to drive in GB with fewer restrictions. She added: “Given the exceptional and temporary nature of Ukrainians’ residence in the UK under the Ukrainian Visa Schemes, this consultation is on proposals to enable Ukrainians to continue to drive in Great Britain (GB) without the need to exchange their licence. We welcome views about making this change, the length of time for the extension and whether there are any road safety considerations.”
Data from Statista shows that from February 2022 to July 2024, the UK provided refuge to 244,560 Ukrainians. The consultation will be closing at 11.59pm on January 19. For more information or to participate in the consultation, please visit gov.uk/government/consultations/extension-of-ukraine-driving-licence-exchange.