Guide · Updated October 2026
Exchanging Your UK Driving Licence When You Move Abroad
When you move abroad, your UK driving licence is usually valid only for a limited time after you become resident: 6 months in Spain and Cyprus, up to 18 months in New Zealand for cars, and as set by each state or province in Australia, Canada and the USA. Portugal lets registered residents drive on a UK licence until it expires. Most exchanges need a DVLA check code, and the UK licence is handed in.
Spain
6 months, then exchange
Cyprus
6 months, then exchange
Portugal
Valid until it expires for residents
New Zealand
18 months (cars), then convert
Australia, Canada, USA
Set by each state or province
You need
A DVLA check code for most exchanges
How long can I drive on my UK licence?
- Spain
- Up to 6 months after becoming resident; apply to exchange with the DGT before then
- Cyprus
- Up to 6 months; exchange at a Road Transport Department office. An International Driving Permit does not replace the exchange
- Portugal
- Registered residents can drive on a UK or Gibraltar licence until it expires, or exchange it with the IMT
- New Zealand
- Up to 18 months for cars and 12 months for motorbikes and trucks, then convert to a New Zealand licence
- Australia
- Rules and the exchange process differ by state and territory
- Canada
- Set by each province and territory
- USA
- Set by each state's motor vehicle department
What do I need to exchange it?
- Your UK photocard licence, which is usually kept by the new authority
- A check code from DVLA (or from the DVA for a Northern Ireland licence), which shows your entitlements
- Proof of residence in the new country, such as a residence card
- Passport and photos as the authority asks
Licences from Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man often cannot be exchanged in the EU and need a full local test. If your UK licence was itself exchanged from another country's, check whether a test is needed.
When should I apply?
Before your UK licence stops being valid for driving there. Exchanges take time, and you cannot drive on the UK licence once the period has passed. Renew a UK licence that is close to expiry before you move: you cannot renew it once you live abroad.
And the vehicle?
A UK-registered vehicle also has a limited time abroad before it must be imported and registered locally, and the rules differ by country. Our destination guides cover the vehicle side.
Moving to Spain with your UK car →
Moving to the EU with your car →
Frequently asked questions
How long can I drive in Spain on a UK licence?
Up to 6 months after becoming resident. Exchange it for a Spanish licence before then.
Can I use my UK licence in Portugal?
Yes. Registered residents can drive on a UK licence until it expires, or exchange it.
How long can I drive in New Zealand on a UK licence?
Up to 18 months for cars and 12 months for motorbikes or trucks, then you must convert it.
What is a DVLA check code?
A code from the View or share your driving licence service that lets another authority see your entitlements. Most exchanges ask for one.
Can I renew my UK licence if I live abroad?
No. Renew it before you move if it is close to expiry, then exchange it in your new country.
Official sources
- GOV.UK: Living in Spain
- GOV.UK: Living in Portugal
- GOV.UK: Living in Cyprus
- GOV.UK: Living in New Zealand
- GOV.UK: Living in Australia
- Government of Canada: driving in Canada
- GOV.UK: View or share your driving licence
This guide summarises the rules as published in October 2026. Rules change; we confirm what applies to your vehicle when we quote.
Related routes and guides
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