Driver's License in Korea for Foreigners
New license, exchange, or IDP — find your route in 60 seconds and skip the confusion at the test center.
✅ Quick Answer
You can test directly at a test center or go through a certified driving school. If you already have a foreign license, you may qualify for exchange instead of full testing.
Pick Your Route
There are three ways foreigners can legally drive in Korea. Your best option depends on whether you already have a license and how long you plan to stay.
Route A
New License (Test Route)
Get a Korean license from scratch. Best if you don't qualify for exchange or want full driving certification.
Official Flow
Route B
License Exchange
Swap your valid foreign license for a Korean one. The fastest route if you qualify.
Official Flow
Route C
International Driving Permit (IDP)
For short-term visitors. Valid for 1 year from issuance date.
Critical Rules
1-Minute Route Finder
Not sure which route applies to you? Answer 3 quick questions.
🔍 Find Your Route
Answer honestly for accurate results
Question 1 of 3
Do you currently have a valid driver's license from another country?
Question 2 of 3
Do you need a Korean driver's license for longer-term driving?
Question 3 of 3
Do you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your home country?
Your Route: New License
You'll go through full testing: written exam, driving course, and road test.
Get Started →Your Route: License Exchange
You may swap your foreign license. Some countries are exempt from the written test.
Check Requirements →Your Route: Use Your IDP
Your IDP is valid in Korea for 1 year. Ensure name/signature matches your passport.
IDP Rules →Check Requirements First
Review IDP eligibility and requirements for your home country before visiting Korea.
View Requirements →Route A: New License (Test Route)
Choose this if you don't qualify for exchange or want a Korean license from scratch. You'll complete the official KOROAD testing process.
Official Flow
Traffic safety education (1 hour) → Written exam → Driving course test → On-road driving exam → License issuance.
💡 Tip: Driving School Optional
You can apply directly at a test center OR use a certified driving school. Schools provide structured practice but aren't mandatory.
Before You Apply
KOROAD's English guide states you must complete traffic safety education before applying for the written exam. Also, photo rules are strict: 3.5×4.5cm color photos taken within the last 6 months are required.
Route B: License Exchange
Choose this if you already have a full, valid foreign license and want a Korean one via exchange. This is typically the fastest route.
Official Flow
Document review (embassy confirmation) → Aptitude test (physical exam) + written test (case-by-case) → Exchange issuance.
⚠️ #1 Delay Point: Missing Documents
If anything is missing, the officer may request additional documents. KOROAD notes you may need an embassy certificate or Apostille (issued within the past year) to confirm authenticity.
Written Test Exemption
You may be exempt from the written test if your country recognizes Korean licenses (mutual recognition agreement). Check the full country list on the exchange guide page.
U.S. License Holders
The U.S. Embassy in Seoul specifically states you'll need a certified copy of your U.S. driver's license for exchange.
Route C: International Driving Permit (IDP)
Choose this if you're a short-term visitor and will drive in Korea using an IDP issued by your home country.
Critical Validity Rules
Your IDP can be invalid if your name or signature doesn't match your passport. Korea requires an "International Driving Permit" — not an "International Driving License." IDP validity is one year from the date of issuance.
📌 Key Reminder
Always carry both your IDP AND your original home country license when driving in Korea. The IDP alone is not sufficient.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These are the issues that cause the most delays and repeat visits. Don't let them happen to you.
❌ Missing document verification
Embassy confirmation is often required for exchange. Staff may request additional documents — this is the #1 delay point.
❌ Wrong photo specifications
Photos must be 3.5×4.5cm, color, taken within the last 6 months. Many applications get rejected for this.
❌ IDP name mismatch
Your IDP is invalid if name or signature differs from your passport. Double-check before you travel.
❌ Skipping traffic safety education
You must complete the 1-hour education before applying for the written exam. No shortcuts allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. You can apply directly at a test center or use a certified driving school — your choice. Schools help with structured practice but aren't mandatory.
Yes, with proper documentation. The U.S. Embassy requires a certified copy of your license. You may also need an Apostille issued within the past year.
One year from the date of issuance. Make sure it's an "International Driving Permit" (not "License") and that your name matches your passport exactly.
You may be exempt from the written test during exchange. Check the full country list on our exchange guide page.
Yes. Written tests are available in multiple languages including English, Chinese, and Vietnamese at most testing centers.
📋 Ready to Get Started?
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