Ukrainian driving licence in Germany: driving and exchanging it
With §24 status you can drive on a Ukrainian licence without a mandatory exchange for as long as the protection is in force. We explain the rules and the voluntary exchange.
As long as you hold valid temporary protection (§24 AufenthG), you may drive a car in Germany with your Ukrainian licence — without a mandatory exchange. The protection has been extended until 4 March 2028.
What is important to know:
- recognition applies for as long as the protection status lasts; once it ends, the general rules for foreign licences (FeV) apply again;
- Ukraine is on the favourable list (Anlage 11 FeV), so the exchange usually takes place without retaking exams (the authority checks the conditions);
- it is advisable to have a translation of the licence.
Voluntary exchange (Umschreibung):
- you can exchange your Ukrainian licence for a German one even before the protection ends;
- contact the driving licence authority (Führerscheinstelle / Fahrerlaubnisbehörde) at your place of residence;
- usually required: the licence with a translation, a photo, proof of residence, sometimes an eyesight certificate.
The exact documents and deadlines depend on the authority and on your federal state — check with an official source.
Official sources
This article is a general guide in Ukrainian, not legal or tax advice. Rules may differ from one federal state to another and may change over time; always check the official sources listed below or contact the relevant authority or a qualified professional.