Driving licences from the age of 15 and new categories: Ukraine is preparing a major reform for drivers
This is set out in the summary of draft law No. 15200.
The document brings vehicle categories into line with EU standards. In particular, it introduces category AM for mopeds (speed up to 45 km/h) and category A2 for motorcycles with a power output of up to 35 kW.
It also specifies the requirements for the mass and dimensions of categories B, C and D. For example, for D1 – no more than 16 seats and a length of up to 8 metres.
Changes to age requirements and progressive access
The draft law introduces the principle of phased access to driving, depending on experience and age:
- from the age of 15 – mopeds and light two-wheeled vehicles;
- from the age of 17 – categories B and BE (only when accompanied by an experienced driver with at least two years’ experience);
- from the age of 20 – powerful motorcycles (category A) provided the rider has two years’ experience on an A2 licence, or from the age of 24 – for direct access;
- from the age of 24 – buses (categories D and DE), or from the age of 21 with professional training.
Digitisation of documents
The reform provides for the full legalisation of electronic driving licences and vehicle registration certificates. Digital documents in the ‘Dii’ app will have the same legal force as paper versions and may be used without the need for a physical counterpart. The Cabinet of Ministers will separately define the rules for the processing and protection of holders’ personal data.
The reform is part of the implementation of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU. Its main aim is to improve road safety and transition to the European model of driver training control.
Suspension and reinstatement of the right to drive
According to the document, licences will be deemed to have been revoked in a number of cases. First and foremost, this applies to the expiry of the licence, its loss or its replacement with a new one.
The following grounds for revocation are highlighted separately:
- if the driver has not collected the ready licence from the service centre within one year;
- if a licence issued for the first time has been revoked due to a traffic offence.
If a driver has had their licence revoked by a court order, the reinstatement procedure will be more complex. To get back behind the wheel, the individual will have to undergo an additional medical examination, as well as successfully pass the theory and practical tests at the Ministry of Internal Affairs service centre.
If the grounds for reinstatement arise a year or more later, the driver is required to retake the tests for the highest category specified on their licence.
As a reminder, in Kyiv, the cost of hourly parking in municipal car parks has changed from 27 April 2026. For drivers who pay taxes in the capital, monthly passes with discounts of up to 90% are being launched in the “Kyiv Digital” app.
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