1.8 Million Drivers Did Not Renew Their Licenses: Deadline Has Ended

The Renewal Process for Old Licenses Has Been Completed

In Turkey, the deadline for exchanging old driver’s licenses (permits) for new type licenses has ended as of October 31, 2023. Initially, the deadline for citizens to obtain the new type driver’s licenses, which have been issued since January 1, 2016, was set for December 31, 2020. However, this period was extended a total of 4 times to prevent citizens from facing difficulties.

Minister Yerlikaya's Call

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya warned citizens through social media throughout October to renew their licenses, emphasizing with the statement, "Don't leave it to the last minute." He pointed out that this process would not be extended again. Following these calls, 275,608 people applied to renew their licenses in October. By the end of the working day today, 40,771 people had applied for renewal.

The Number of Those Who Did Not Renew is Worrying

Since 2016, 35 million 794 thousand 515 people have obtained new type driver’s licenses, while 1 million 799 thousand 172 have not completed the license renewal process. The validity of old licenses ended as of October 31, 2023. This situation increases the risk of being stranded and facing legal problems.

License Renewal Fees Have Changed

License renewal fees have also become an important topic. The renewal fee for Class B driver’s licenses has been set at 7,438 lira 60 kuruş instead of 15 lira. This high amount may be another factor accelerating citizens' decision to renew their licenses.