Ajokortti (driving licence)
The Finnish driving license: how to exchange a foreign license, get a new one, and what international residents need to know about driving in Finland.
Detailed explanation
EU/EEA licenses are valid in Finland as long as they have not expired. You are not required to exchange them, but you may do so voluntarily. If your EU license expires while you are living in Finland, you must renew it through Finnish authorities (Traficom and an Ajovarma service point).
Non-EU/EEA licenses require more attention. If your license was issued in a contracting state (for example the UK, Switzerland, the USA, Canada or Australia), you can drive with it for two years after moving to Finland permanently, and you should exchange it for a Finnish license before that period ends. If it was issued in another country Finland recognises, it is accepted for one year after the move. Exchanging a license from a contracting state within the two years needs a doctor's statement but no driving test; after two years, or for other countries, you must take the theory and driving tests. Check your country on Traficom's list of countries.
Getting a new Finnish driving license from scratch involves attending driving school (autokoulu), passing a theory exam, completing supervised driving hours, and passing a practical driving test. The entire process costs approximately €2,000–3,000 and takes several months.
How it affects expats
- EU/EEA license: Valid in Finland
- no exchange required unless it expires
- Non-EU license: Valid for 2 years after moving (contracting states) or 1 year (other recognised countries), then must be exchanged or a Finnish license obtained
- Exchange process: Apply through an Ajovarma service point
- requirements depend on your license's origin country
- Driving test: Not needed when exchanging a contracting-state license within 2 years; otherwise theory and driving tests are required
- Winter driving: Finland has mandatory winter tire requirements (November–March)
- familiarize yourself with winter driving conditions
- International Driving Permit: Useful as a supplement but does not replace the need for a Finnish license long-term
Key details
- Traficom: The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency that regulates driving licenses
- Ajovarma: The service provider for driving tests and license services
- Winter tires: Mandatory from November to March (or when conditions require)
- Driving school: Approximately €2,000–3,000 for a full course
- Minimum age: 18 for a regular car license (B-class)
- Application: Through Ajovarma with required documentation and photos
Our guide to driving in Finland explains when to exchange an EU or non-EU licence and the other rules newcomers need to know.
Related terms
- Poliisi (Police): traffic enforcement
- DVV: address registration affects license records
- Vakuutus (Insurance): vehicle insurance requirements