Russian Driver's License

US citizens can drive in Russia using their license from home (United States) for up to six months; however, all US citizens need to additionally carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is a translation of your license into foreign languages, which must accompany your US driver’s license.

Your US license has to be valid, not revoked or suspended.

It’s a good idea to renew your US driver’s license before getting IDP. Remember, if your license expires in 6 months or less, it is time to renew it. You never know when you will be back to the United States. You must be 18 years old to get IDP.

You can apply for IDP here.

Type all information and you will need to print out. You may also print the application and fill it out with pen. Don’t forget to sign your application.

You will need the following:

2 recent passport style photos, 2 in × 2 in (5.1 cm × 5.1 cm) in size, both signed on the back. You can get passport photos taken at any AAA office for a small fee.

Your valid driving license (if applying in person), or a legible photocopy of both the front and back of your license (if applying by mail).

The application fee of $20 USD, by check or money order (if applying by mail). You can also pay by cash or credit if you apply in person.

So, mail it if you do it by mail, or find the nearest AAA office to you.

If you you decide to do it by mail it takes 10-15 days to complete.
Mail it to the address below (double check the mailing address on AAA website, who knows, it might change).

AAA/IDP

Attn: Mailstop #28

1000 AAA Drive

Heathrow, FL 32746

If you do it in person. Everything is done right there. So, it much faster to do it.

Remember, if police officer If while driving in Russia, you will need to show your US license, the Russian translation (i.e., IDP) and passport.

If you hold a Russian work permit or resident visa, you must exchange your US driving license into a Russian driver’s license within 60 days after getting your residence permit.

How to exchange your driver’s license in Russia

1.) Driving lessons ( 50 hours).
2.) A practical driving exam, driving on a test track and on city roads.
3.) A theoretical driving test (on a computer), with questions on road regulations.
All tests can are in Russian. You can not hire a translator to hep you. So, study Russian early.

When applying for a Russian driver’s license, bring the following documents:
- A completed application form
- Your passport
- Proof of passing a driving course
- A valid Russian residence permit
- A medical certificate from your doctor saying you are fit to drive
- A color photograph
- Your original foreign driving license
- A photocopy of your driving license with a notarized translation.

When pulled over, make sure you have these documents in your car:
- Foreign driving license or Russian driving license
- International driving permit
- Proof of insurance
- Proof of vehicle ownership
- Vehicle inspection card (if applicable)

Russian driving laws

The driver and all passengers must wear seatbelts, and children younger than 12 years cannot travel in the front of the car unless in a child seat. Using a mobile phone while driving in Russia is illegal if you don’t have a hands-free kit, as is driving a dirty car (especially if the license plate is covered).

Driving and drinking laws in Russia

Russia operates a zero-tolerance attitude to drunk driving and you could face a jail term if found guilty. If you’re stopped and are found to be over the limit, you’ll need to give a blood sample for further investigation.
The strict Russian road rules surrounding drunk driving also apply to drugs. In Moscow, police are piloting saliva tests for drivers suspected of taking narcotics. So, don't mess with it.