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Expat Exchange - Getting a Driver's License in Kazakhstan
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Panfilova Street in Almaty, Kazakhstan


Getting a Driver's License in Kazakhstan

By Betsy Burlingame

SJB Global
SJB Global

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

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 Kazakhstan.

Foreigners who wish to drive in Kazakhstan must have a valid international driving permit (IDP) along with their valid home country driving license. The IDP must be obtained in the driver's home country before traveling to Kazakhstan. It's also important to note that the driving license must be in either English or Russian, or it should be accompanied by a certified translation.

Additionally, drivers must have third-party liability insurance. If you're bringing your own vehicle, you'll also need to have the vehicle's registration documents. It's also recommended to have a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, and warning triangle in the car, as these are required for local drivers.

As for regional differences, the driving rules and regulations in Kazakhstan are generally consistent across the entire country. However, road conditions can vary greatly between urban and rural areas, and between different regions, so it's important to be prepared for a variety of driving conditions.

Lastly, it's worth noting that driving in Kazakhstan can be challenging due to local driving habits, poorly maintained roads, and harsh weather conditions in winter. Therefore, it's recommended to familiarize oneself with local driving customs and conditions before getting behind the wheel.

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.


SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global
SJB Global

Panfilova Street in Almaty, Kazakhstan
William Russell
William Russell

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