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How To Get a Driving License in Albania

how-to-get-a-driving-license-in-albania
Driving in Albania offers incredible freedom, from the stunning Riviera coastline to the mountains of the north. But to legally get behind the wheel as a resident, you’ll need a valid Albanian driving license (Leje Drejtimi).

This process, especially for foreigners, can seem complex and bureaucratic. This guide will break down the entire procedure, whether you are converting your existing foreign license or starting from scratch. We’ll cover the steps, the documents, and the key institution you need to know.

Using Your Foreign License in Albania (The 1-Year Rule)

This is the most common question for expats and new residents. Here’s the simple breakdown:

  • As a Tourist: You can typically drive in Albania with your valid home country’s license for short-term visits. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended to accompany it.
  • As a Resident: Once you obtain an Albanian Residence Permit, your foreign license is only valid for one year from the date your permit is issued.

After this one-year period, you must either convert your license or obtain a new Albanian one. Driving with an invalid license is illegal and can lead to significant fines and insurance issues.

Path 1: Converting Your Foreign Driving License

This is the simplest route, but it’s not available for everyone. It depends entirely on whether Albania has a bilateral agreement for license recognition with your home country.

Who is Eligible for Conversion?

Albania holds conversion agreements with a number of countries. This list can change, but it historically includes places like Italy, Greece, Germany, and some other EU countries, as well as specific non-EU states.

You must check directly with the official authority (see DPSHTRR below) or a local driving school to confirm if your specific country (or even state/province) is on the approved list.

The Conversion Process & Documents

If you are eligible, you will not need to take the theory or practical tests. You will submit an application package that generally includes:

  • Your original, valid foreign driving license.
  • A notarized Albanian translation of your license.
  • Your valid Albanian Residence Permit.
  • Your Passport and/or Albanian ID Card.
  • A valid medical certificate (see below).
  • Application form and proof of payment for the service fees.

The authorities will verify your license with your home country, and if all is clear, they will issue you a new Albanian license.

Path 2: Getting a New Albanian License from Scratch

If your country does not have a conversion agreement (e.g., USA, UK, Canada, Australia), or if you are a brand new driver, you must go through the full process.

Step 1: Enroll in an ‘Autoshkolla’ (Driving School)

This is a mandatory prerequisite. You cannot simply show up for the tests. You must enroll in a certified Autoshkolla.

The school will handle your registration and provide the required theoretical classes (on road signs, laws, and first-aid) and practical driving lessons to prepare you for the exams.

Step 2: Get the Medical Certificate

You must obtain a medical certificate (Certifikatë Mjekësore për Leje Drejtimi) from a designated medical clinic. This involves a basic health check and an eye exam to certify you are fit to drive. Your driving school will tell you exactly where to go for this.

Step 3: Pass the Theory Test (Testi i Teorisë)

After completing your theoretical courses, you will take the official theory test. This is a computer-based, multiple-choice exam that covers:

  • Traffic laws and regulations.
  • Road signs and signals.
  • Basic vehicle mechanics and safety.
  • First-aid procedures.

A Critical Note: The Language Barrier

Be aware that the official theory test is typically only offered in Albanian. Some testing centers may offer it in English, but this is not guaranteed and varies by location. This is the single biggest hurdle for many foreigners. Your Autoshkolla is your best resource for finding a solution, which may involve studying with translated materials or hiring a certified translator for the test (if permitted).

Step 4: Pass the Practical Driving Test (Testi i Praktikës)

Once you pass the theory test, you will be scheduled for your practical driving test. An examiner from the regional testing center will accompany you (and often your instructor) in the car. You will be tested on your ability to safely operate the vehicle in real traffic, including maneuvers like parking, 3-point turns, and following all road rules.

If you pass, congratulations! You will be issued your official Albanian driving license.

The Key Authority: What is DPSHTRR?

The entire driving license system in Albania is managed by one central government body: DPSHTRR (Drejtoria e Përgjithshme e Shërbimeve të Transportit Rrugor).

This is the General Directorate of Road Transport Services. They are the only official source of information. Any regional office you visit for your tests or license issuance will be a branch of the DPSHTRR.

Summary of Required Documents

While the exact list depends on your path (conversion vs. new), you will always need these core documents at some point:

  • Valid Passport
  • Valid Albanian Residence Permit (This is essential for any non-tourist)
  • Medical Certificate
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Proof of payment for all relevant fees.

Resources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources. Regulations can and do change.