How to Exchange a Foreign Driver's License in Korea (2026): Documents, Fees and Steps
Checked against official and published sources · Updated Nov 10, 2026 AI-generated image. Short answer: If you live in Korea with a residence card (ARC), you can swap your home driver's license for a Korean one at a Driver's License Examination Office. If your country or state has a reciprocal agreement with Korea, you only take a vision test and pay about ₩15,000–₩35,000 , usually on the same day. If not, you must pass the written and driving tests. Bring your license, passport, ARC, an embassy certificate or apostille, an entry-exit record and three passport photos. Can I just use an International Driving Permit? Visitors can drive with an IDP for one year from entry. If you live here longer, plan your exchange before the IDP runs out, because an IDP cannot be renewed in Korea. Exchange or test? Check your country first Your license is from What you need to do Typical cost A recognized country or state (133 on the April 2026 list) Documents + vision test, no driving test ₩...
