Russian driver’s licenses nearing expiration will receive a three-year automatic extension. On Tuesday, April 12, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin announced this change as part of a broader effort to ease administrative burdens for both businesses and citizens.
The measure was reviewed at a session of the Presidium of the Government Commission focused on sustaining economic stability under sanctions. The announcement highlights that the decree aims to streamline processes and reduce friction for those holding Russian licenses, especially those whose licenses are due to be renewed within the next two years.
Specifically, licenses with expiration dates between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2023 will be renewed automatically for an additional three years. In practical terms, this affects roughly 5 million driver’s licenses nationwide, providing a longer validity window without the need for immediate renewal procedures.
In addition to driver’s licenses, the validity period for certain vehicle identification documents is being extended. This includes documents tied to vehicles registered in the Far North and designated for the transport of dangerous goods, with an added one-year extension. The decree also covers certificates related to sanitary and epidemiological oversight as well as certificates of state registration for breeding herds, signaling a broad approach to reducing administrative demands across several sectors.
The government stated that this decision will lessen the burden on citizens, entrepreneurs, and organizations, along with reducing costs associated with licensing processes. The rationale centers on easing daily administrative tasks and enabling more efficient operation across the economy. This message was conveyed through the government’s official communication channels .
Officials noted that reducing administrative burdens has been a consistent objective of the administration. The measures, they say, proved effective during the health crisis and continue to demonstrate value in today’s economic climate. The aim is to shield citizens and businesses from unnecessary concerns so they can concentrate on priority matters without being delayed by paperwork or procedures.
Within Russia, the licensing system comprises ten driver’s license categories and six subcategories. Youths can begin driving education at age 16 to operate a car or motorcycle. Exams for category M and subcategory A1 can be taken from 16, while exams for categories B and C are available from 17. Age-based access to certain categories is detailed as follows: category M and subcategory A1 from 16; categories A, B, C and subcategories B1 and C1 from 18; categories D, Tm, Tb and subcategories D1 from 21. There is no upper age limit for driving, and since 2014, even licensed drivers are required to complete driving lessons as part of ongoing training.
Industry observers note a challenging market for new car sales in early 2022, with statistics from the Association of European Enterprises in Russia indicating a drop compared to the prior month. Analysts cited by industry outlets warned of a further decline in demand, even as Western brands’ vehicles remained visible in showrooms through mid-year .
Against this backdrop, some intermediaries have sought to circumvent sanctions by offering to deliver auto parts from Europe and the United States via third countries. Promises to route parts through channels such as Turkey and Estonia have been reported, with service and prepayment demands reaching a portion of the part price. Experts caution that such schemes carry significant risk for buyers, including legal and operational repercussions, compliance exposure, and potential quality issues in substituted supply chains .
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