What is the DVLA Moldova license exchange agreement?
The DVLA Moldova reciprocal agreement, introduced in August 2025, allows Moldovan citizens in the UK to exchange their driving licenses for a British one without retaking the driving test. This agreement is managed by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), Department for Transport (DfT) and the Government of the Republic of Moldova.
As part of the MoU signed by the UK and the Moldovan government, UK citizens can also exchange their licenses in Moldova. With these DVLA license changes, Moldova joins a list of countries having reciprocity agreements with the UK and simplifies the process of converting a Moldovan license to a British one.
Note: This exchange agreement doesn't apply to Moldovan citizens in Northern Ireland. Driving license exchange in Ireland is managed by the Driver's and Vehicle Agency (DVA), and still follows local rules.
Who can exchange a Moldovan driving license in the UK?
Moldovan citizens: The agreement is specifically for citizens of the Republic of Moldova.
UK residents: You must be legally residing in the UK.
Valid License: Your Moldovan driving license must be valid and in good standing.
Residency requirement: You must apply for the exchange within five years of gaining your UK residency status.
Note: If you have been living in the UK for more than five years, you will need to take both the theoretical and practical driving tests to get a British license. However, there are active petitions that might result in changes to the residency requirements.
What supporting documents do I need to convert my Moldovan driving license in the UK?
Original Moldovan driving license
Proof of identity (passport or BRP)
Proof of UK address
Passport-sized photo
D1 application form
Certified English translation meeting DVLA Moldovan license translation requirements (if not bilingual).
Do you need your Moldovan license translated into English? Request a free quote to get a certified translation from Translayte.
How to exchange a Moldovan driving license for a UK license
The steps to apply for a DVLA Moldovan driving license exchange includes confirming eligibility, downloading the D1 form, submitting the required documents, and paying the applicable fees. Here's a breakdown of what it entails:
Check eligibility
Confirm your eligibility to exchange your Moldovan driving license in the UK. The agreement allows for this exchange without taking a driving test, but requires you to be a resident in the UK.
Order the D1 Form
Download or order the D1 application form from the GOV.UK website. Once you have it, fill out the D1 application form with the requested details. Ensure that all information is correct; if you're unsure, you can contact the DVLA for guidance.
Gather supporting documents
Collect your original Moldovan driving license and any other required documents as specified on the form. Supporting documents often include Identity documents, proof of residency and passport-sized photographs. If your documents are not in English, you’ll need a certified translation. Translayte provides quick, DVLA-accepted translations for Moldovan licenses. Request a free quote to get started.
Submit your application and pay fees
Send the completed D1 form, your foreign license, and the fee to the address provided on the form. Currently, the DVLA driving license exchange fee is £43.
Receive your new UK License
The DVLA will process your application, and you should receive your new UK driving license within three weeks
Note: The license you receive in the UK will be equivalent to the same vehicle categories listed on your Moldovan license.
How Translayte can help
Before sending your application to the DVLA, you must ensure all non-English documents are correctly translated. Translayte offers certified Moldovan-to-English translations accepted by the DVLA. Here's how we can help:
Our certified translators have years of experience in license translation, ensuring 100% acceptance.
We provide translation at competitive market rates.
Our customer support services are available 24/7 via WhatsApp, Phone and Email.
You can receive your certified translations via email or by mail.
If you want toconvert your Moldovan license to a British one, using professional UK certified translation services ensures acceptance and eliminates delays. Request a free quote from Translayte today for a fast and accurate translation.
