A comprehensive guide on how to transfer and apply for a Korean Driving License

Are you contemplating settling in the Land of the Morning Calm and embracing the freedom of driving in Korea? To experience the bustling cities or scenic countrysides by car, you’ll need to secure a Korean driving license. Here, ThxKorea has crafted a straightforward guide to aid foreigners in Korea.

Why do I need to apply for a Korean Driving License?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) can serve short-term visitors adequately. However, if you plan to immerse yourself in the rich experiences driving in Korea can offer for a longer period, getting a Korean driving license is essential. It not only simplifies driving matters but showcases your dedication to adhering to the local road rules.

Basic Eligibility to apply for a Korean Driving License

Before you embark on the journey to obtain your Korean driving license, ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria: You must be at least 18 years old.

How to Get Started with Your Korean Driving License Application?

Initial Health Check and Written Exam

The pathway to driving in Korea starts with an interaction with the Driver’s License Agency, which has branches in many major cities. Find the nearest one to you here.

Your first stop will be a simple health check to ensure you are fit to take on the responsibilities of driving in Korea. This involves testing your vision, hearing, and motor functions. This isn’t an in-depth health assessment but a preliminary check to gauge your fitness level.

• Cost: 7,000 Won for large/special licenses, 6,000 Won for other categories
• Note: Gangneung, Taebaek, and Mungyeong exam offices don’t have Health Check Centers, so you would need to get a health check at a nearby hospital.

Following the health check, you’ll undertake a written test, which is available in multiple languages including Korean, English, Chinese, and Vietnamese. You’ll need to bring an application form, ID card, and three recent color photos (3.5X4.5cm) to proceed.

• Cost: 10,000 Won for class 1 or 2; 8,000 Won for motorized bicycles.(based on taking the health check at exam site) 
• Pre-requisite: A traffic safety education session (1 hour, free of charge). 
• Passing score: 70 points or higher for class 1 licenses and 60 points or higher for class 2 licenses.

Practical Exams: Showcasing Your Readiness for Driving in Korea

Having passed the written test, it’s time to demonstrate your practical skills through a driving course test and an on-road driving exam.

Driving Course Test:

• Cost: 25,000 won for class 1 or 2 (general and large/special), 14,000 won for class 2 small, and 10,000 won for motorized bicycles.
• Passing score: 80 points or higher for class 1 (large and general), and 90 points or higher for others (You are eligible to retake the exam after three days).
• Retake: Allowed after a three-day gap, if necessary.

After successfully completing the course test, you’ll be issued a practice license for a fee of 4,000 won.

On-Road Driving Exam:

• Cost: 30,000 won.
• Passing score: 70 points or higher (You are eligible to retake the exam after three days).
• Retake: Possible after three days.

Receiving Your Korean Driving License

Upon passing the on-road driving exam, the final step to driving in Korea is to apply for your Korean driving license. For this, you’ll need:

• A completed application form with proof of passing the on-road exam.
• ID card.
• Recent color photo (3.5X4.5cm). 
• Cost: 10,000 won.

Tip: The specific requirements and costs can vary based on the type of license you are applying for and the exam site, so it is advisable to check the details in advance.

Apply and find the license acquisition process here: Apply

Practical Tips

As you near the completion of your Korean driving license application process, it’s prudent to acquaint yourself with Korean road signs and remember that driving in Korea involves staying on the right side of the road. Ensure to carry your license whenever you are driving in Korea.

Korean Driving License Renewal and Updates

Keep an eye on your license’s expiry date to enjoy uninterrupted driving in Korea. The renewal process is straightforward, necessitating a new photo and the corresponding fee.

Closing Thoughts on Applying for a Korean Driving License

Acquiring a Korean driving license as a foreign national isn’t as daunting as it might seem. Equipped with the right documents and solid preparation, you’ll be driving in Korea’s vibrant streets with confidence and legal backing.