Driving
How to get a driver’s license
- ① After passing a local driver’s license test
- ② When holding a foreign driver’s license recognized by the Korean government (exempted from on-paper and driving tests)
- After an adaptation test, the foreign license can be exchanged fore a driver’s license issued by Korea (type 2 regular)
※ Under special agreements with some countries, a foreign driver’s license can be exchanged with a type 1 or type 2 small vehicle driver’s license - ③ When holding a foreign driver’s license that the Korean government does not recognizes (exempt from driving tests)
- After an adaptation test and a simplified examination on subjects, the foreign license can be exchanged with a driver’s license issued by Korea (type 2 regular)
※ All enquiries pertaining to a driver’s license should be directed towards the Customer Center of the Road Traffic Authority Driver’s License Examination Office (82-1577-1120, dl.koroad.or.kr)
Vehicle registration
Ask your car dealership to register your newly-purchased vehicle. The following documents are required.
- Application form for vehicle registration
- Temporary permit for driving vehicle and temporary license plate
- Vehicle registration certificate or necessary documents that prove overseas vehicle purchase
- Vehicle inspection certificate
- Alien registration certificate or copy of passport
- Vehicle liability insurance
- Receipt of vehicle registration
- Ownership
Vehicle rental
To rent a vehicle, the following requirements must be met:
- Driving experience of one year or longer
- An international driver’s license
- Age: 21 or older
- Passport
Rental period
You can rent a vehicle on a daily basis. For business purposes, the period can be extended to one month or one year. Rental vehicles range from small cars to large sedans and vans. Vehicle rental is available around the clock. Renters must pay all fuel costs and take responsibility for any fines and penalties incurred by traffic violations.