Foreign residents may be able to exchange a foreign driver's license for a Korean driver's license without completing the entire Korean licensing process.
The procedure depends partly on whether Korea recognizes the issuing country for license exchange.
1. Check Whether Your License Is Eligible
The Korea Road Traffic Authority (KoROAD) maintains the list of countries whose licenses are recognized for exchange.
If the foreign license is from a recognized country, the written test is generally exempted. For licenses from countries not recognized for exchange, an aptitude test and written test may be required.
2. Prepare Your Documents
KoROAD lists the following among the required documents:
- Original foreign driver's license
- Passport
- Residence Card/Alien Registration Card
- Color photographs
- Embassy certificate or Apostille certificate verifying the driver's license
- Certificate of Entry and Exit
- Applicable fees
The license and supporting documents should be carefully checked because differences in names or dates of birth can result in requests for additional documentation.
3. Obtain License Verification
The authenticity of the foreign driver's license must be verified through the appropriate embassy certificate or apostille process, depending on the issuing country.
For Ghanaian applicants, contact the relevant Ghanaian diplomatic mission in Korea to confirm the current procedure for verifying the Ghanaian license.
4. Visit a Driver's License Test Center
Applications are submitted at designated driver's license test sites.
The applicant normally needs to appear in person. KoROAD notes that applications by proxy are generally not permitted except in specified circumstances.
5. Complete the Required Tests
Depending on the issuing country:
Recognized country
- Document review
- Physical/aptitude examination
- License exchange
Non-recognized country
- Document review
- Physical/aptitude examination
- Written examination
- License exchange
6. Receive Your Korean License
Once the application has been approved and all required tests have been completed, the Korean driver's license can be issued.
KoROAD currently lists issuance fees of KRW 10,000 for the standard card and KRW 15,000 for the mobile IC license, subject to applicable changes.
Important: Do not rely on an old online checklist. Requirements can change, so verify the current requirements with KoROAD before visiting.
