Ministry of Internal Affairs introduces temporary driver's licenses: 15 years for cars, 5 for trucks

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a new system for issuing driver's licenses, which gradually brings Ukrainian standards closer to European requirements and strengthens control over the health of those who drive vehicles.

From June 30, 2024, updated rules for issuing and exchanging driver's licenses came into effect in Ukraine. The main change is the introduction of clear validity periods for documents depending on the category of transport. For motorcycles and passenger cars, licenses will be issued for 15 years, and for freight and passenger transportation - only for 5 years. After the expiration date, the document will have to be exchanged with a mandatory medical examination. Permanent licenses issued earlier remain valid until the date indicated on them, and a planned exchange will not require re-taking exams.

European safety vector on Ukrainian roads

The government's decision was another step in harmonizing Ukrainian legislation with European Union directives. In most EU countries, driver's licenses for passenger vehicles are issued for 10–15 years, and for professional drivers - for 5 years with regular medical check-ups. Ukraine, striving for integration into the European transport space, is adapting these standards to its own realities. Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko emphasized that regular confirmation of health status will become a key element of admission to driving, especially for those who transport passengers or cargo.

Accident statistics in recent years show that a significant part of serious road accidents is associated with the deterioration of drivers' health. According to the National Police, in 2023, more than 12% of fatal accidents occurred due to sudden loss of consciousness or heart attacks while driving. The new system of medical examinations should reduce this indicator. In addition, the introduction of the "Payment Hub" for paying for services at service centers simplifies the exchange procedure and reduces corruption risks.

Medical examinations: who will be checked and how often

From now on, drivers of categories C, CE, D and DE will undergo a medical examination every five years. For categories A, B and BE, the period is 15 years. Special attention is paid to older drivers and those with chronic diseases. If contraindications are found during the examination, the license will not be issued or will be canceled. This rule applies to both new and already issued documents during a scheduled exchange.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs service centers are already preparing for an increase in workload. According to the department's forecasts, during the first two years after the introduction of innovations, the number of applications for the exchange of ID cards will increase by 35%. To avoid queues, the Ministry of Internal Affairs is expanding the network of centers and introducing an electronic queue through the "Diya" portal.

Impact on professional carriers and the labor market

The new rules will affect truck and bus drivers the most. Transport companies will be forced to schedule regular medical check-ups for their employees. This could lead to a temporary shortage of personnel in the logistics industry, especially in front-line regions, where there is already a shortage of qualified specialists. At the same time, experts believe that increasing health requirements will ultimately increase road safety and reduce the number of accidents involving large-sized vehicles.

For ordinary car owners, the changes are less noticeable. If the license was issued before 2024, it can be used until its expiration date. During a scheduled exchange in 15 years, it will be enough to undergo a medical examination and pay the state fee - there is no need to take exams.

Digitalization and accessibility of services

In parallel with the new rules, the Ministry of Internal Affairs launched a single online system, Payment Hub. Now you can pay for a license exchange, car registration, or other services directly through the portal without visiting a bank. This is especially important for internally displaced persons, who can renew their documents for free at any service center in the country.

The government also plans to increase fines for systematic speeding. A corresponding bill has already been submitted to the Verkhovna Rada. The combination of stricter licensing rules with stricter road control should create a comprehensive system for improving road safety.

International context and prospects

In 2025–2026, Ukraine continues to adapt its transport legislation to EU standards. It is expected that by 2028, full harmonization will allow Ukrainian drivers to use their rights in most European countries without additional procedures. At the same time, European partners are providing technical assistance to modernize service centers and implement electronic databases.

Analysts note that the introduction of temporary licenses is not only about safety, but also about the state's responsibility to citizens. Regular medical monitoring reduces risks for all road users, and simplified exchange procedures make the system more convenient for drivers.

Conclusions and next steps

The new rules for issuing driver's licenses have become a logical continuation of the road safety reform. They combine European experience with Ukrainian realities and create the prerequisites for reducing the accident rate. The coming months will show how effectively service centers will cope with the increased load and whether queues will be avoided. The main thing for drivers is not to forget about the validity periods of documents and undergo medical examinations on time.