Driving License in Greece – Everything You Need to Know
An in‑depth guide for anyone who wants to get behind the wheel on the Greek roads.
1. Why a Greek Driving Licence Matters
Whether you are a resident, a long‑term tourist, or an expatriate planning to settle in Greece, having a valid Greek driving licence (or a recognised foreign licence that can be exchanged) is mandatory for operating a motor vehicle on public roads. Driving without the proper authorisation can lead to hefty fines, points on your licence, or even criminal prosecution. This guide walks you through every step of the process— from eligibility to renewal—so you can hit the road with confidence.
2. Licence Categories & Minimum Age
Greek licences follow the European Union (EU) classification system. Below is a quick reference table that summarises the most common categories and the minimum age you must be to apply.
| Category | Vehicle Type | Minimum Age | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | Light motorcycles up to 125 cc, max 11 kW | 16 | Scooters, small motorcycles |
| A2 | Motorcycles up to 35 kW, power‑to‑weight ≤0.2 kW/kg | 18 | Middle‑weight bikes |
| A | Unlimited motorcycles | 24 (or 2 years after A2) | All motorcycles |
| B | Cars ≤3 500 kg, max 8 seats (excluding driver) | 18 | Passenger cars, small vans |
| BE | B‑category car + trailer >750 kg (max combined 4 250 kg) | 18 | Car‑trailer combos |
| C1 | Light trucks 3 500–7 500 kg | 21 | Small commercial vehicles |
| C | Trucks >7 500 kg | 21 | Heavy goods vehicles |
| D1 | Minibuses 9–16 seats | 21 | Small passenger buses |
| D | Buses >16 seats | 24 | Full‑size passenger buses |
| E | Any vehicle in A‑D with a trailer >750 kg | Same as vehicle | Trailer combinations |
Tip: If you already hold a licence from another EU country, you can usually swap it for a Greek one without taking a theory or practical exam (see Section 5).
3. Step‑by‑Step Process to Obtain a Greek Licence
Below is a checklist you can print out and tick off as you progress.
3.1. Gather the Required Documents
| Document | Why It’s Needed | How to Obtain |
|---|---|---|
| Valid ID (passport or Greek ID card) | Proof of identity | Government office or embassy |
| Proof of residence (utility bill, rental contract, or residence permit) | Confirms you live in Greece | Recent (≤3 months) document |
| Medical certificate (issued by a certified doctor) | Confirms you meet health standards | Visit a licensed physician; must include vision, hearing, and general health check |
| Criminal record certificate (if you are a non‑EU citizen) | Ensures no disqualifying offences | Police or consulate |
| Two passport‑size photos (white background) | For the licence card | Photo studio or DIY (must meet EU standards) |
| Application form (Αίτηση Αδ/Α) | Official request | Download from the Ministry of Infrastructure & Transport website or collect at a KEP office |
| Proof of completion of a driving school (certificate of theory + practical training) | Demonstrates you have received proper instruction | Issued by an accredited driving school |
3.2. Enrol in a Certified Driving School
- Theory lessons: Minimum 27 hours covering road signs, traffic rules, first aid, and environmental issues.
- Practical lessons: Minimum 20 hours of behind‑the‑wheel training for category B; more for higher categories.
- Cost range: €250–€450 for a full B‑category package (prices vary by region and school).
3.3. Pass the Theory Exam
- Conducted on a computer at a Κέντρο Εξυπηρέτησης Πολιτών (KEP) or a licensed testing centre.
- Consists of 30 multiple‑choice questions; you must answer at least 27 correctly (90 %).
- Duration: 30 minutes.
- Retake policy: You can retake after a 7‑day waiting period; each attempt costs €30.
3.4. Pass the Practical Road Test
- Performed on a public road circuit with an official examiner.
- You’ll be evaluated on: vehicle control, observation, lane changes, parking, and adherence to traffic rules.
- Test fee: €50–€70.
- Retake policy: Same as the theory exam—7‑day interval, with an additional fee.
3.5. Receive Your Licence
- After successful completion, you’ll receive a temporary paper licence (valid for 30 days).
- The plastic card is mailed to your registered address within 10–15 working days.
4. Costs Overview (2025)
| Item | Approximate Cost (EUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medical certificate | 30–50 | Private doctors; some health‑centres offer a flat rate |
| Driving school (full B package) | 250–450 | Includes theory, practical lessons, and exam fees |
| Theory exam (first attempt) | 30 | Additional attempts cost the same |
| Practical exam (first attempt) | 50–70 | Depends on region |
| Licence issuance (card) | 30 | Paid when you collect the temporary licence |
| Renewal (every 10 years) | 50 | Includes a new photo |
| Exchange of EU licence | 25 | Administrative fee only |
| Exchange of non‑EU licence | 60–120 | Depends on required additional tests |
Quick tip: Many driving schools package the exam fees into their tuition, so you may only pay the school’s advertised price.
5. Converting a Foreign Licence
5.1. EU/EEA Licences
- Direct exchange: No theory or practical test required.
- Procedure: Submit your original licence, translation (if not in Greek/English), and ID at the local KEP office.
- Timeframe: Usually processed within 2 weeks.
5.2. Non‑EU Licences (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia)
- Two‑step process:
- Medical & Theory exam – you must pass the Greek theory test.
- Practical exam – unless a bilateral agreement exists (e.g., with the United States for certain states).
- Validity of foreign licence while awaiting exchange: Up to 6 months, after which you must have a Greek licence to drive legally.
5.3. International Driving Permit (IDP)
- An IDP is not a licence; it merely translates your existing licence.
- Valid for one year in Greece and must be accompanied by your original licence.
- Use it only for short stays; long‑term residents must obtain a Greek licence.
6. Licence Validity, Renewal & Point System
| Licence Type | Validity Period | Renewal Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Category B (car) | 10 years (until age 65) | Medical certificate + fee |
| Category A (motorcycle) | 10 years (until age 65) | Same as B |
| Professional licences (C, D, etc.) | 5 years | Additional health checks (vision, ECG) |
| Over‑65 | Every 2 years | Medical exam mandatory |
6.1. Point System (Greek “Σύστημα Πόντων”)
- Starting points: 12
- Offences (e.g., speeding, drink‑driving) deduct points (1–6 points).
- Zero‑point threshold: Licence is suspended for 6 months; you must retake the theory exam to regain it.
- Point reset: Every 3 years, if you have not committed any point‑deducting offence, your points are restored to the full 12.
7. Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
- Missing the medical certificate deadline – The certificate is only valid for 6 months. Schedule your appointment early.
- Insufficient theory preparation – Greek road signs include some that are not used in other EU countries (e.g., “No overtaking for vehicles with a trailer”). Use the official “Οδηγός Οδικής Κυκλοφορίας” study guide.
- Driving school not accredited – Verify the school’s licence number on the Ministry’s online registry.
- Forgetting to register your address change – Your licence card will be mailed to the address on file; an outdated address can cause delays.
- Assuming an IDP covers you indefinitely – Remember it expires after one year; plan your licence conversion well in advance.
8. Helpful Resources & Contacts
| Resource | Link / Phone | What You’ll Find |
|---|---|---|
| Ministry of Infrastructure & Transport | https://www.yme.gov.gr | Official forms, fee tables, licence categories |
| Greek Police – Road Safety Unit | 101 (emergency) / +30 210 xxxxxxx | Information on point system, traffic fines |
| KEP (Citizen Service Centers) | Locate via https://www.gov.gr/ | Submit applications, pay fees, collect temporary licences |
| Driving Schools Association (Σ.Σ.Α.Δ.) | https://www.ssad.gr | List of accredited schools by region |
| European Commission – Driver’s Licence Directive | https://ec.europa.eu/transport | Rules for exchanging EU licences |
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I take the theory exam in English?
A: Yes. The theory exam is available in Greek, English, French, German, and several other EU languages. Choose your preferred language when you book the test at the KEP.
Q2: What if I fail the practical test repeatedly?
A: After three consecutive failures, you must attend a remedial training session (minimum 4 hours) and obtain a new certificate from your driving school before retaking the test.
Q3: I’m over 70. Can I still drive?
A: Yes, but you must renew your licence every 2 years and provide a comprehensive medical certificate that includes vision, hearing, and cardiovascular assessment.
Q4: Do I need a separate licence for an electric scooter (≤50 cc)?
A: No. Electric scooters with a maximum speed of 25 km/h and power ≤ 0.5 kW can be ridden with a category B licence, provided you are at least 16 years old.
Q5: Is there a way to speed up the issuance of the plastic licence card?
A: If you need the card urgently (e.g., for a rental car), you can request express processing at an additional cost of €20. The card will then be ready within 3–5 working days.
Q6: Can I drive a car with a foreign licence while my Greek licence is being processed?
A: Yes, for up to six months from the date of your residence registration, provided the foreign licence is valid and you also carry an International Driving Permit if the licence is not in Greek or English.
10. Final Checklist Before You Hit the Road
- Verify residency status and have a recent proof of address.
- Book a medical exam and obtain the certificate.
- Enrol in a certified driving school and complete the required hours.
- Pass the theory exam (download the official study guide first).
- Pass the practical road test (practice in varied traffic conditions).
- Submit all documents at the KEP and pay the issuance fee.
- Keep your temporary licence and the official receipt until the plastic card arrives.
- Familiarise yourself with the point system to stay safe and avoid suspensions.
Ready to Drive?
Obtaining a Greek driving licence may feel like a marathon, but with the right preparation and an eye on the deadlines, it’s entirely manageable. Follow the steps outlined above, keep your paperwork organised, and you’ll be cruising along the Aegean‑coast highways—or navigating the winding streets of Athens—in no time. Safe travels!