Russia Sets Rules for Reinstating a Deprived Driver’s License and Replacing Foreign Licenses
President Vladimir Putin signed legislation that details how a driver’s license can be reinstated after it has been suspended. The government’s summary indicates the measure creates a clear path for individuals to regain driving privileges following penalties tied to traffic offenses.
The law imposes specific restrictions on those who have lost driving rights due to drunk driving or a medical examination refusal. It states that such individuals will not be eligible to participate in driver’s license exams while the administrative decision is in effect and for a year after it has been completed. During this period, the person’s ability to transfer rights or obtain a license remains blocked, as outlined in the Administrative Offenses Code. This framework aims to ensure that driving privileges are only restored after proper compliance and rehabilitation measures have been completed.
The legislation also defines how driving permissions may be restored in practice. For drivers with at least one year of vehicle operation experience, eligibility may extend to operating buses under certain conditions. Beginning at age 17, individuals may be permitted to take exams for driving licenses covering tricycles, quadricycles, and other vehicle categories. The provisions emphasize gradual access to a broader range of vehicle classes, predicated on demonstrated experience and compliance with safety requirements.
Regarding foreign documentation, the law lays out how foreign and international licenses are treated within the Russian Federation. The new rules specify that foreign licenses and international permits become invalid after a one-year period following a foreign national’s receipt of a residence permit or Russian citizenship. This creates a defined timeline for replacing non-Russian licenses with recognized national credentials for long-term residents and new citizens.
The arrangement outlined by the regulation reflects ongoing efforts to align driving eligibility with demonstrated driving experience, safety considerations, and residency status. It shapes how authorities manage licensing rights while balancing public safety with the practical needs of individuals who rely on driving for work, family, and daily life. The policy signals a move toward a standardized process for reinstatement and license replacement that authorities argue will improve road safety and administrative clarity across the country. (Source: TASS)