Turkey introduces driver's license and exam reforms

Turkey is implementing new regulations regarding driver's licenses and driving examinations. Under a new system, citizens can merge their driver's license information with their Republic of Turkey identity cards. Once processed through population directorates, the identity card will serve as a valid driving document, eliminating the need to carry a physical license. To qualify, both the identity card and the license must be of the new type, and biometric photos must have been taken within the last six months.

Additionally, the Ministry of National Education is introducing reforms to the driving examination process. The traditional fixed-route system is being replaced by a “free route” model, where candidates are evaluated on their ability to navigate real city traffic and diverse road conditions. This change aims to move away from memorized courses toward testing actual driving skills. Consequently, the duration of the driving exam is expected to increase from approximately 35 minutes to up to one hour.