The charming scenery and exotic atmosphere of Greece attract a large number of Chinese investors. As a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, investing in Greek real estate for immigration allows for free movement across all EU and Schengen countries. Convenient road transportation makes owning a car the best choice for investors to enjoy a life of immediate departure. Today, we will briefly introduce the process of obtaining a driver's license for Greek immigrants.
Driver's licenses from non-EU and non-EEA countries are valid for driving in Greece for 185 days (6 months). After this period, a Greek driver's license is required to drive. Foreign driver's licenses can be exchanged for a Greek license, but this depends on the country; if an exchange is not possible, a driving test must be taken.
Non-EU/EEA Driver's License Exchange
For driver's license exchange, the driver must reside in Greece or hold a driver's license from Australia, Canada, Japan, South Africa, South Korea, or the United States. In the case of an Australian driver's license, as long as it is valid and accompanied by an International Driving License (IDL) or International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by the home country, one can drive in Greece without exchanging the license. The Australian Embassy provides relevant information. The driver's license exchange procedure can be handled at the Citizen Service Center (KEP) or the Department of Transport and Communications office in the applicant's area of residence.
Driver's License Application
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to learn to drive at a driving school. In most cases, the driving school will handle all paperwork and arrange the examinations.
Applicant Requirements
Ordinary resident of Greece, with relevant proof provided;
Does not hold a driver's license of the same category issued by an EU or EEA member state;
Meets the minimum mental and physical requirements for the category of license applied for;
Passes the theoretical test and the road test.
License Categories and Age Limits
AM (mopeds with speeds between 25 km/h and 45 km/h): 16 years old;
A1 (motorcycles with a cylinder capacity not exceeding 125cc): 18 years old;
A2 (motorcycles with power not exceeding 35KW): 20 years old;
B1 (light quadricycles): 18 years old;
B (cars): 18 years old;
C1 (medium-sized vehicles): 18 years old;
Required Documents
Application form;
Copy of Greek ID card or passport, showing the applicant's date of birth;
Non-Greek nationals must provide a copy of their residence permit: proof of residence or residence permit. The document must be valid on the date of application and at the time of receiving the Greek driver's license; therefore, the document must have at least 95 days (for EU and EEA) or 185 days (for other countries) of validity remaining.
Two medical certificates. One from a general practitioner and one from an ophthalmologist, along with a payment receipt for the health certificate issued by the National Bank of Greece. The aforementioned doctors must be under contract with the Ministry of Transport.
Two recent color photos, passport-sized;
Proof of payment of fees issued by the local tax office;
Original and copy of the applicant's previously held driver's license;
The application must be submitted to the local Department of Transport and Communications or the local Citizen Service Center (KEP).
Driver's License Examination
There are various types of theoretical tests, which are primarily image-based and represent the minimum examination requirement for a Greek driver's license. All tests are completed on the same day, and results are announced immediately.
If the theoretical test is passed, the road test begins. The road test for AM, A1, A2, B, and BE categories lasts at least 25 minutes, while the road test for other license categories lasts at least 45 minutes. The applicant's instructor and two examiners will be in the vehicle to supervise. The road test can be taken on the same day as the theoretical test or at a later date.
If the theoretical or road test is not passed, it can be retaken an unlimited number of times. Once passed, a temporary driving certificate can be obtained immediately until the driver's license is issued.
Novice Drivers
New drivers who have just received their license must display a red "N" sign on the rear window of their vehicle for 6 months. These signs can be purchased at any auto repair shop.