FOHO Blog – Global Housing & Living Guide for Foreigners

How to Exchange Your Foreign Driver's License in Korea

This complete guide for foreigners explains how to exchange your driver's license in Korea. Learn about Apostille requirements and avoid common rejection reasons.

Evan Han

CEO & Founder of FOHO, a housing platform for foreigners in Korea. Experienced in rental market trends, proptech innovation, and foreign tenant support.

Oct 13, 2025

TIPRegion

Table of contents

01How to Exchange Your Foreign Driver's License in Korea: The Definitive Guide
•Part 1: Why You Need a Korean License (And Who Is Eligible)
•Part 2: The Document Gauntlet: A Step-by-Step Protocol
•Part 3: Execution Day: At the Driver's License Center
•Part 4: After the Exchange: Managing Your New License
•Part 5: Advanced Information & Troubleshooting

How to Exchange Your Foreign Driver's License in Korea: The Definitive Guide

Navigating administrative tasks in a new country can be challenging. Exchanging your foreign driver's license for a Korean one is a prime example—a process with precise rules and document requirements that can feel overwhelming.

This guide is designed to be the only resource you'll need. We will walk you through every step, from understanding why you need a Korean license to managing it long-term. We've compiled official requirements, practical tips, and solutions to common problems to make your experience as smooth as possible.

Part 1: Why You Need a Korean License (And Who Is Eligible)

Before diving into the paperwork, it's crucial to understand the strategic importance of a Korean license for long-term residents and to verify your eligibility.

International Driving Permit (IDP) vs. Korean License

Many foreigners initially use an International Driving Permit (IDP). While useful for short-term visitors, an IDP has significant limitations for long-term residents:

Validity: An IDP is only valid for up to one year from your date of entry into Korea.

Legal Status: Once you are issued an Alien Registration Card (ARC), you are legally considered a resident, not a tourist. Continuing to drive on an IDP can create a legal gray area, potentially leading to complications with law enforcement or insurance companies in the event of an accident.

For anyone planning to stay in Korea for a year or more, exchanging your license is not just a matter of convenience—it's a necessary step for legal and financial security.

Eligibility Checklist: Can You Apply?

To be eligible for the license exchange, you must meet these criteria:

Legal Residency: You must hold a valid Alien Registration Card (ARC) or a Domestic Residence Report Card (for overseas Koreans). Short-term visitors (under 90 days) cannot apply.

Valid Foreign License: Your original driver's license must be a full, valid license. Temporary permits, learner's permits, or provisional licenses are not accepted.

90-Day Stay Requirement: You must prove that you stayed in the country that issued your license for at least 90 days after obtaining it. This is verified through your passport stamps or a Certificate of Entry and Exit.

The "Third-Country License" Trap: This 90-day rule often affects those who earned a license in a country different from their home country. For example, if you are a French citizen who worked in the UAE and obtained a UAE license, you must prove you stayed in the UAE for over 90 days after the license was issued. If not, your application will likely be rejected.

Part 2: The Document Gauntlet: A Step-by-Step Protocol

This is the most critical and complex stage. A single missing or incorrect document can result in rejection. Follow this guide precisely.

Universal Checklist: Documents for All Applicants

Every applicant must prepare the following:

Document	Details	Estimated Cost (KRW)	Notes
Foreign Driver's License	Original, valid, full license.	-	You will surrender this.
Passport	Original, valid.	-
Alien Registration Card (ARC)	Original, valid.	-
Certificate of Entry & Exit	Covers from your birthdate to the present.	~₩2,000	Get this at a local Community Service Center (주민센터).
Color Photos (3)	3.5cm x 4.5cm, taken within the last 6 months.	~₩10,000	Most license centers have a photo booth.
License Authentication Document	Apostille or Embassy Legalization.	Varies	See the next section for this crucial step.
Fees	For tests and issuance.	See below	Pay on-site.

Fee Breakdown:

Physical Examination (Vision Test): ₩6,000 - ₩7,000

Written Test (if applicable): ₩10,000

License Issuance: ₩10,000 (Standard) / ₩15,000 (Mobile IC)

License Authentication: Apostille vs. Consular Legalization

This is where most applicants get confused. You must provide official proof that your license is genuine. The method depends on whether the issuing country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention.

Path A: For Apostille Convention Countries

An Apostille is a certificate that authenticates a public document for use in another member country. The Republic of Korea recognizes Apostilles.

Typical Process:

Get a notarized copy of your driver's license in the country that issued it.

Submit the notarized copy to the designated Competent Authority in that country (e.g., the Secretary of State's office in a U.S. state) to receive the Apostille certificate.

Special Note for U.S. Citizens: You have two options.

Option 1 (Prepare in the U.S.): Obtain a state-level Apostille before coming to Korea. This is often cheaper but requires advance planning.

Option 2 (Prepare in Korea): The U.S. Embassy in Seoul can issue a "certified copy" of your license for a $50 fee. Korean driver's license centers accept this document in place of an Apostille. This is more convenient if you are already in Korea.

Sources:

List of Apostille Convention Countries (HCCH)

U.S. Embassy in Seoul: Notarial Services

Path B: For Non-Apostille Countries

If your license is from a country not in the Apostille Convention (e.g., Vietnam, many Middle Eastern nations), you must undergo "Consular Legalization." This is a more complex, multi-step process.

Example Process (for a Vietnamese license):

In Vietnam, get a notarized translation of your license (into English or Korean).

Have the document authenticated by the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Finally, get it legalized by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Vietnam.

Crucial Advice: If you are from a non-Apostille country, complete this entire process before you move to Korea. Doing it from abroad is extremely difficult and will cause significant delays.

Final Document Review: Avoiding Common Rejection Reasons

Before you go to the license center, perform a final check:

Information Consistency: Is your name spelled exactly the same on your passport, ARC, and driver's license? Even a minor difference can be a problem.

Authentication Document Integrity: Do not remove staples or tamper with the Apostille/legalization certificate. It must be in pristine condition.

Validity Dates: All authentication documents must have been issued within the last year.

Part 3: Execution Day: At the Driver's License Center

With your perfect document package, you are ready for your visit.

Preparation: Location, Booking, and Timing

Location: You can apply at any official Driver's License Examination Center in Korea.

Online Reservation: While walk-ins are possible, booking a time slot online is highly recommended to avoid long waits. Use the official Safe Driving Integrated Civil Service website.

Strategic Timing: The foreign license exchange process takes longer than standard services. Arrive at least 2-3 hours before closing (6:00 PM), preferably in the morning.

On-Site Procedure: Step-by-Step

Fill Out Application & Get Ticket: Complete the application form for foreign license exchange and take a number for the international license window.

Document Submission & Review: When your number is called, submit your entire package. The staff will meticulously review every document.

Physical Examination (Vision Test): After your documents are approved, you'll be directed to the physical examination room for a simple vision test.

Standard (Class 2 License): You need at least 0.5 vision with both eyes open. Corrective lenses are permitted.

Note: Some smaller centers (e.g., Mungyeong, Gangneung) do not have on-site testing facilities. You would need to visit a designated hospital beforehand.

The Written Test: For Applicants from Non-Recognized Countries

If your license is from a country that does not have a mutual recognition agreement with Korea, you must pass a simplified written test.

Content: 20-40 multiple-choice questions on traffic laws and signs.

Languages: The test is available in English, Chinese, Vietnamese, and other languages.

Preparation: The Safe Driving website provides a multilingual question bank for practice. Reviewing it is highly recommended.

Final Step: Payment and License Collection

Once you pass all required tests (or are exempt), you will pay the issuance fee and wait a few minutes for your new Korean driver's license to be printed.

Part 4: After the Exchange: Managing Your New License

You have your Korean license. Here’s what to do next.

Surrendering and Retrieving Your Original License

By law, you must surrender your foreign license upon exchange. It will be kept at the examination center.

You can retrieve it temporarily for international travel. To do so, visit the center where it's stored and present proof of outbound travel (e.g., a flight e-ticket).

Pro Tip: Many expats book a refundable flight, print the itinerary to retrieve their license, and then cancel the flight. This allows them to legally hold both their Korean license (for use in Korea) and their original license (for use abroad). Your foreign license will be disposed of if not claimed within 10 years.

Renewal and Validity

Your new Korean license (typically Class 2 Ordinary) will require periodic renewal, just like one issued to a Korean citizen. You will receive a notice when the renewal period approaches.

Getting a Korean-Issued IDP

With your Korean license, you can now obtain a Korean-issued IDP for driving in other countries. You can apply at any driver's license center or police station with your license, passport, a photo, and a fee of ₩8,500.

Part 5: Advanced Information & Troubleshooting

Country-Specific Recognition Details

The most common question is: "Do I need to take the written test?" The answer is complex and depends on specific agreements.

Country/Region	Written Test Exempt?	Important Conditions & Notes
USA (select states)	Yes	States like Alabama, Florida, Maryland, Virginia, Washington have full recognition.
USA (California)	No (Officially)	Officially, the test is required. However, there are anecdotal reports of F-4 visa holders being granted exemptions at some centers (e.g., Gangnam). Prepare for the test.
USA (Oregon, Idaho)	No	Despite having agreements, a written test is required by policy.
Canada (most provinces)	Yes	Includes Alberta, BC, Ontario, Quebec.
Australia	Yes	Must be 25 years of age or older.
New Zealand	Yes	Must have held the license for 2 years or more.
Hong Kong	Yes
Japan	Yes
United Kingdom	Yes
Germany	Yes
Italy, Spain	Yes	May be eligible for an equivalent class exchange (not just Class 2).

Disclaimer: This information is based on the latest available data as of late 2025 but is subject to change. Always verify with the official KoROAD call center (1577-1120) before your visit.

Dealing with the "Human Factor"

Official rules are clear, but on-site experiences can vary depending on the staff member or examination center.

Be Over-Prepared: Bring printouts of official rules or checklists if you anticipate issues.

Stay Calm and Polite: If a staff member makes an unexpected request, ask for clarification politely. A calm and respectful attitude is always more effective.

Be Flexible: Hope for the best-case scenario (e.g., a test exemption) but be prepared for the official procedure (taking the test). This mindset will save you stress.

Exchanging your license is a marathon, not a sprint. With thorough preparation, you can navigate the process successfully in a single visit. Good luck.

Your Next Step: Find Your Home in Korea with FOHO

Getting your driver's license is a major step toward settling into life in Korea. The next is finding the right place to call home. But the housing market can feel just as complex as the administrative process you just mastered—from searching for reliable listings to communicating with landlords and navigating high service fees.

That’s where FOHO helps. We simplify your housing search with access to affordable, verified listings across Korea. Our team provides dedicated support to ensure clear communication with your landlord, both before and after you move in, all while offering the lowest service fees available.

Spend less on the process and more on your home. Let FOHO guide you to your perfect place in Korea.

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