Foreign driving licences
Foreign driving licence and a new address in Italy: what to do
EU and non-EU licences follow different rules. Check validity, residence and exchange agreements before driving.
If you move to Italy with a foreign driving licence, first check whether it was issued in the EU/EEA or elsewhere. Driving time limits, any requirement to exchange it and the documents you need will differ. For non-EU/EEA countries, consult the MIT’s up-to-date list of agreements.
Identify the issuing country and your residence status
Citizenship alone does not determine the rule: what matters is the country that issued the licence, whether it is valid, the categories it covers and the date you become resident in Italy. Keep the original document and note that date, because MIT guidance distinguishes residents from temporary visitors.
For a licence issued in the EU or EEA, the MIT says Italian rules on validity periods and medical checks apply. You may apply to exchange it, but changing address does not automatically mean you must. Before driving, check any licence that has expired, has no expiry date or has a different validity period.
Non-EU or non-EEA licences
Under MIT guidance and Article 135 of the Italian Highway Code, a non-EU/EEA licence may allow you to drive in Italy for the period set after you become resident, provided it is valid and accompanied by an international driving permit or, where required, an official translation. Exceptions depend on conventions and bilateral agreements.
After the period set by law, you must exchange the licence to keep driving in Italy if an agreement with the issuing country allows it; otherwise, you need to obtain an Italian licence. Do not rely on copied lists: agreements and exchange deadlines can change. Check the MIT page for your country and ask the local Civil Motorisation Office (UMC) which documents it accepts.
Prepare your exchange application
Apply to the Civil Motorisation Office using the MIT form and procedure. Requirements generally include a valid foreign licence, identity document, tax code, photographs and fees; medical certification and additional documents depend on the case. Portale dell’Automobilista provides current forms and instructions.
Non-EU citizens may be asked for documents proving lawful residence. For some licences, the Motorisation Office checks category equivalence and may retain or return the document under the applicable agreement. Ask for the checklist before booking an appointment and keep the receipt. Until you are no longer entitled to drive, follow the conditions of the original document.
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Frequently asked questions
Is a non-EU licence valid without a translation?
MIT guidance says that, in addition to a valid licence, you need an international driving permit or an official Italian translation, unless an applicable convention or rule provides otherwise. Check the issuing country’s requirements before driving.
Can any non-EU licence be exchanged?
No. Exchange depends on whether a reciprocity agreement with Italy exists and on its conditions. Check the MIT page for the country and contact the relevant Civil Motorisation Office.