One thing that often comes up for Pakistanis heading to the Schengen Zone is whether their driving license will work there.
Here’s the simple answer: Yes, but not forever.
Most Schengen countries allow you to drive with your Pakistani license for a limited period — usually a few months. Once your initial period is over, you might not be able to use your Pakistani license as it is. Some countries will ask you to switch it for a local one, while others might want you to register or even retake a driving test. Honestly, it really just depends on where you are — each country plays by its own rules when it comes to this.
What’s the Schengen Area Exactly?
The Schengen Zone is basically a travel-friendly zone made up of 27 European countries. Countries like Germany, Spain, France, and Italy are part of it. The cool thing? Once you’re in one of them, you can travel to the others without going through passport checks at every border. Kind of like moving between cities in Pakistan — no stamp drama.
But don’t assume everything’s unified. While borders are open, driving rules aren’t.
Some countries might ask you to take a driving test again. Others may let you simply exchange your Pakistani license for theirs. A few might even require additional documents like a translation or an international driving permit (IDP).
Can You Drive in Schengen with a Pakistani License?
Yes, you can drive with a Pakistani license in most Schengen countries — but usually only for up to 6 months after your arrival.
To drive legally:
- Your license must be valid and in English or accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- You must carry your passport, visa/residence permit, and driving license while driving.
What Happens After 6 Months?
After 6 months (sometimes 12 months in certain countries), you’ll need to either:
- Register your Pakistani license
- Or exchange/convert it for a local (EU) license
- Or apply for a new driving test in the European country you’re living in
Country by Country Guidelines
| Country | Can You Register/Exchange? | Notes |
| Germany | No direct exchange | Must take written + practical driving test |
| France | Yes (within 1 year) | Must exchange within 1 year of residency |
| Italy | No direct conversion | Must apply for Italian license |
| Spain | Not directly | Need full process (theory + practical test) |
| Norway | Yes (within 3 months) | Exchange possible if within time limit |
| Netherlands | Not eligible | Full test required |
| Portugal | Yes (with translation) | Register with IMT within 90 days |
| Austria | Yes (within 6 months) | May require medical check |
Always check the latest rule from your local traffic department in the country you’re in.
How to Register or Convert Your License?
If your country allows registration or exchange, follow these general steps:
- Gather Documents:
- Original Pakistani driving license
- Passport and residence permit
- Proof of address (rental contract or utility bill)
- Recent photos
- International Driving Permit (optional but helpful)
- Original Pakistani driving license
- Translate the License
In many countries, you’ll need to translate your license into the local language. - Submit Application
Visit the local traffic office (DMV or equivalent) and submit your application. You may need to fill out a form and pay a small fee. - Medical/Driving Test (if needed)
Some countries may ask you to pass a medical test or even a driving test before converting.
Should You Get an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
If you’re heading to Europe, it’s honestly smart to get yourself an International Driving Permit (IDP) before flying out. Why? Because it works like a translated version of your Pakistani license and can save you a lot of trouble when renting a car or dealing with local traffic checks.
In Pakistan, you can grab an IDP from the Traffic Police offices or DFA branches in bigger cities like Lahore, Karachi, or Islamabad. The process is usually simple — just a bit of paperwork, a fee, and you’re good to go.
Also read this: Get Your International Driving License in Just 5 Minutes at Lahore Airport
