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Expat Exchange - Getting a Driver's License in Greece
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Getting a Driver's License in Greece

By Betsy Burlingame

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Summary: Here's a primer on how to get your driver's license in Greece.

Sometimes when you're new to a country a task like getting your driver's license can make you feel like you're 16 years old again trying to pass your driver's test. Here's an overview of the process of getting your driver's license in Greece.

In Greece, foreigners are allowed to drive if they have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their valid national driving license. The IDP is valid for one year. If the foreigner becomes a resident of Greece, they must convert their national driving license to a Greek driving license within six months. It's important to note that driving licenses issued by non-EU countries are not recognized for permanent residents in Greece.

For non-EU citizens, if they stay in Greece for more than 185 days (6 months), they are considered residents and must obtain a Greek driving license. To do this, they must pass a written and practical driving test in Greek. Some exceptions apply for certain countries that have a reciprocal agreement with Greece.

As for the requirements that differ based on the city, state, or region, Greece has a centralized system for driving regulations. This means that the rules and requirements are the same throughout the entire country. However, driving conditions and enforcement may vary from place to place. For example, in major cities like Athens, traffic can be heavy and parking can be difficult, while in rural areas, roads can be narrow and winding.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Crowded Market in Athens, Greece

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William Russell

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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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