The rules for the equivalence of driving licenses obtained in the Transnistrian region are expected to change from April 1, 2027. The government proposes that individuals who hold licenses obtained until this date should only take the theoretical and practical exams to obtain the national license. However, driving licenses obtained in the Transnistrian region after April 1, 2027 will no longer be equivalent, reports IPN.
Thus, those who wish to obtain national licenses will be compelled to attend a driving school and subsequently take the exams.
The authors of the project argue that the changes are necessary to ensure equal conditions for all citizens and to strengthen the credibility of Moldovan driving licenses in international relations. According to the explanatory note, until January 15, 2025, the right to drive obtained in the localities on the left bank of the Nistru and the city of Bender could be equated without taking exams. From January 16, 2025, equivalence is conditioned by passing theoretical and practical tests.
The authorities mention that the information regarding the training of drivers from the Transnistrian region is not fully available to the national authorities, due to the lack of effective control over the region.
The new provisions are expected to come into effect on April 1, 2027. The deadline was proposed to allow the adjustment of professional training programs and related processes in the region to the requirements of the national regulatory framework. The project is developed by the Public Services Agency, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Research, and is promoted by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.