Greece's charming scenery and exotic atmosphere attract a large number of Chinese investors to immigrate to Greece by purchasing property. As a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, investment immigrants who purchase property in Greece can travel freely between Schengen countries. Convenient road transportation makes cars the best choice for investors to enjoy a life of immediate departure. Today, we will briefly introduce the process of obtaining a Greek driver's license.
Driver's licenses from non-EU and non-EEA countries can be used to drive in Greece for 185 days (6 months). After that, a Greek driver's license is required to drive. Foreign driver's licenses can be exchanged for a Greek driver's license, but this depends on the country; if it cannot be exchanged for a Greek driver's license, a driving test is required.
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 the holder possesses an International Driving License (IDL) or International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by their home country, they do not need to exchange their license to drive in Greece. The Australian Embassy provides information on this. The driver's license exchange procedure can be handled at the Citizens' Service Center (KEP) or the Department of Transport and Communications 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 exams.
Applicant Requirements
A regular resident of Greece, with relevant proof provided;
Does not hold a driver's license of the same category issued by the EU or EEA;
Meets the minimum mental and physical requirements for the category of license being applied for;
Passes the theoretical test and the road test.
License Categories and Age Restrictions
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, so the document must have at least 95 days (for EU and EEA) or 185 days (for other countries) of validity remaining.
Two medical examination certificates. One certificate from a general practitioner and one from an ophthalmologist, along with proof of payment for the health certificate issued by the National Bank of Greece. Both types of doctors mentioned above 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 previous driver's license;
The application must be submitted to the local Department of Transport and Communications or the local Citizens' 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" sticker on the rear window of their car for 6 months. These signs can be purchased at any auto repair shop.