Can foreigners get a driver’s license in Korea?
Yes, they can.
Foreign nationals with a valid visa and Alien Registration Card (ARC) can legally obtain a Class 1 or Class 2 Korean driver’s license through the standard testing process.
❌ This is not about converting an international driving permit.
✅ It’s about taking the official Korean license exam through the Road Traffic Authority.
Required Documents & Eligibility
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Alien Registration Card | Must have at least 6 months of validity remaining |
| Passport | Sometimes required for ID verification |
| Photo | 1–2 photos (3.5x4.5 cm), taken within 6 months |
| Fees | Approx. 60,000–70,000 KRW total |
| Health Check | Can be done on-site (eyesight, etc.) |
Test Process Overview
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Written Test | 40 multiple choice questions, available in multiple languages (EN, CN, VN, etc.) |
| Driving Skills Test | Basic handling: brakes, slope, reverse, etc. |
| Road Test | Actual driving on public roads |
| After Passing | License is issued on-site or by mail |
All tests are taken at official test centers, not at private driving schools.
Study Guide for Test Preparation
Written Test Tips
- Apps: Road Traffic Authority mobile app for foreigners
- PDF Materials: Available in English, Chinese, Vietnamese
- YouTube Search: “Korean driving license test for foreigners”
- Passing Score: 70% (28 out of 40 questions)
Driving Skills Test
- Practice starting, braking, sudden stop, reverse parking
- Recommended YouTube Search: “Dobong license test course”
Road Test Preparation
- Each test center has different road routes
- All instructions are given in Korean — get familiar beforehand
- Watch simulation videos on YouTube
Tip: Understand driving scenarios instead of just memorizing steps
Recommended Driving Schools in Seoul for Foreigners
Gangseo Driving School
- Offers foreigner classes in English & Chinese
- Works with Gangseo License Test Center
- Visit Website
Dobong Driving School
- Located near Dobong Test Center
- Popular among international students
- Visit Website
Seongsu Driving School
- Close to Hanyang University
- English assistance available
- Visit Website
Gangnam Driving School
- Ideal for foreign professionals in Gangnam area
- Good reviews and interpretation support
- Visit Website
Sadang Driving School
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Can foreigners apply for a Class 1 license?
Yes, but it requires passing the manual transmission driving skills test.
Q. Can I take the test in English or other languages?
Yes, 9 languages are supported including English, Chinese, Vietnamese — but availability depends on the test center.
Q. Can I take the test without an ARC?
No. A valid Alien Registration Card and visa are required.
Suggested Visuals
- Course maps for driving skills and road test
- Screenshots of practice apps
- Embedded maps of school locations (KakaoMap recommended)
- Photos of classrooms or training cars
Internal Link
- [Korean Graduate Program Popular for Foreigners]
- [Opening a Korean Bank Account – Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners]
#Driving school for foreigners Seoul #Get a Korean driver’s license #Foreigner driver’s license in Seoul #Foreign student Korean license
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