How do I exchange a foreign driver's license for a Korean license?

You can exchange a foreign driver's license for a Korean license. You cannot drive in Korea with only a foreign license.²

Process

1. Review of required documents, such as the embassy confirmation letter²
2. Aptitude test (physical exam) and written test²
3. Korean license issued in exchange²

If your license is from a country that Korea recognizes, you are exempt from the written test.² If your country is not a recognized country, you must also take the written test. [4]

Basic documents for foreigners (for countries whose licenses are recognized)

• Original foreign driver's license
• Original passport (it must show your entry and exit records from departure to entry)
• Original Alien Registration Card (외국인등록증)
• 3 color passport photos taken within the last 6 months (3.5cm×4.5cm)
• Embassy confirmation letter for the license, or an Apostille certificate
• Certificate of Entry and Exit Records (출입국사실증명서) (from your birth year to the present)²

Fees

• License issuance: 15,000 won for a Mobile IC license, 10,000 won for a regular license²
• If your country is not a recognized country, there is an extra 10,000 won written test fee.²

⚠️ Things to watch out for

• If documents are missing during the review, you may be asked for additional documents.²
• Documents and test exemptions differ by country. Before you apply, be sure to check the Road Traffic Authority (한국도로교통공단) Safe Driving Integrated Services (안전운전 통합민원) site (safedriving.or.kr).³
• You cannot drive in Korea with only an International Driving Permit.³