The UK government is set to confirm major driving licence changes that will impact thousands of motorists. The Labour Party government has conducted a consultation on extending the period during which holders of a Ukrainian driving licence can operate vehicles in Great Britain by 24 months.
Proposed Extension Details
The new rules would extend the driving eligibility from 36 months to 60 months for some Ukrainian licence holders, and from 54 months to 78 months for others. Figures from the DVLA show that from May 2021 to November 2025, 30,293 Ukrainian driving licences were exchanged for a GB licence.
The consultation document states: "The 78 months would include all the time they have already spent in GB after becoming resident, as the 78-month entitlement would begin after a person becomes resident." It adds: "These individuals would be permitted to drive while their application for the UPE scheme extension is pending, but permission would end if their application is withdrawn, rejected or refused."
Vehicles Covered
The proposal covers cars, motorcycles, and mopeds. The extension is measured from the date the individual becomes resident in Great Britain.
The Department for Transport said: "We previously extended the 12-month driving eligibility for Ukrainian licence holders on certain visa schemes to 36 or 54 months, which was dependent on factors such as the date of the visa application. Our proposal would add time to the previous extension for those who meet the criteria."
Simon Lightwood MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, commented: "Given the exceptional and temporary nature of Ukrainians' residence in the UK under the Ukrainian Visa schemes, this consultation is on proposals to enable Ukrainians to continue to drive in Great Britain without the need to exchange their licence during the duration of their stay. We welcome views about making this change, the length of time for the extension and whether there are any road safety considerations."
