DVLA designated countries list: no change for Turkey

The list has not moved

DVLA exchanges a foreign driving licence for a British one only where the issuing country is designated for that purpose, which rests on a bilateral arrangement about testing standards. Türkiye is not designated and has not been added. Parliamentary answers on the point have repeated the position rather than signalling a change, so plan on the current rule.

The twelve months, and afterwards

A resident of Great Britain may drive on a full valid Turkish car licence for twelve months from the date they became resident. The clock starts at residence, not at arrival for a visit, and it does not restart if you leave and come back. When it runs out you apply for a provisional licence, pass the theory test and pass the practical test like any new driver. Insurers price the first year on a Turkish licence differently, which is worth checking before renewal rather than after.

Where a translation comes in

GOV.UK does not ask for a translation or an international permit during the twelve months. Insurers, hire companies and employers often do, and they ask for a certified one, because the categories and the issue dates on a Turkish licence do not map onto the British ones at a glance. A no-claims letter from a Turkish insurer is the other document commonly requested. See the DVLA page, the guide to driving in the UK on a Turkish licence, and Turkish driving licence translation.