How to Get a Driver's License in Latvia

Obtaining a driver’s license in Latvia requires following specific procedures set by the Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD). Whether you’re exchanging a foreign license or getting your first one, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about costs, requirements, and the step-by-step process in 2026.

Exchanging Your Foreign Driver’s License in Latvia

If you already hold a valid driver’s license from another country and have obtained a residence permit in Latvia, you’ll need to exchange it for a Latvian license to drive legally. The good news is that you won’t need to attend driving school or pass a theory exam—however, medical examination and practical driving test are mandatory.

Requirements for License Exchange

• Valid foreign driver’s license (original)
• Permanent residence in Latvia (at least 6 months residency)
• Passport or eID card for identification
• Medical certificate from CSDD-approved facility
• Certified translation of license (if not in Latvian, English, or Russian)
• Payment of state fees

Exchange Process and Costs (2026)

The exchange process is straightforward and can be completed at any CSDD office. Here’s what to expect:

• Medical Examination: Required at CSDD-designated facilities (approximately €35-40, takes about 20 minutes). Results are automatically added to the CSDD database.
• Practical Driving Test: CSDD fee approximately €40-43
• License Card Issue: Approximately €22
• Total Estimated Cost: €90-105 for the complete exchange process

Once you successfully pass the practical exam, you’ll receive a European-standard Latvian driver’s license valid for 10 years. An added benefit: if you pass for category B, category A (motorcycles/mopeds) is automatically included on your license.

Getting Your First Driver’s License in Latvia

If you’re obtaining a driver’s license for the first time, the process requires more steps, including mandatory driving school attendance, theory lessons, and practical training.

Step 1: Enroll in a Driving School

All first-time applicants must attend a certified driving school. The theoretical course typically costs from €500 and up, depending on the school. Attendance is strictly monitored—you cannot be late or leave early, as CSDD officials conduct random attendance checks. Schools can be fined and lose their license if attendance records don’t match.

• Duration: Usually 5 weeks to 1.5 months (classes twice weekly), though the average total training time is 6 months
• Materials: Driving schools provide printed manuals (road signs, questions, and rules) for approximately €30
• Language Options: Theory exams available in Latvian, Russian, and English (for foreign residents with justification)

Step 2: Complete First Aid Course

Before starting theoretical studies, you must complete a mandatory first aid course and receive a certificate (valid for 5 years). This course covers emergency response procedures, accident protocols, and proper use of vehicle first-aid kits.

Step 3: Medical Examination and Learner’s Permit

After completing the first aid course, undergo a medical examination at a CSDD-approved facility. The medical certificate is registered in the CSDD database within 1-2 working days, after which you can obtain your learner’s permit (known as the “white license” in Latvia).

Important: You cannot begin practical driving lessons until you’ve completed all theory classes and passed the theory exam. Driving without the white license results in a €60 fine.

Step 4: Practical Driving Lessons

After passing the theory exam, you can choose your instructor and begin practical training:

• Minimum Required: 20 hours (20 lessons of 45 minutes each)
• Cost per Lesson: Approximately €25
• Total Practice Cost: Minimum €500 for required lessons (additional lessons available if needed)
• Vehicle Options: Training available for both manual and automatic transmission

The CSDD Driving Exam: What to Expect

When you’ve completed all instructor-led lessons and received a signed training card, you’re ready to book your driving exam at CSDD.

Exam Structure and Components

The practical driving test consists of two parts with different durations and focus areas:

Part 1 (30 minutes): Vehicle knowledge assessment where you demonstrate understanding of cargo placement, passenger comfort, ergonomics principles, and post-accident procedures. You’ll also perform specific driving exercises.

Part 2 (90 minutes): On-road driving assessment where you navigate various road types in built-up areas and highways with speed limits of at least 90 km/h. The examiner evaluates your ability to drive safely and participate confidently in traffic.

Throughout the exam, video recording is mandatory in the vehicle. Your driving school instructor is not permitted to accompany you during the test.

Understanding the Mistake Classification System

Examiners categorize mistakes into three levels of severity:

• Minor Mistakes: Generally don’t affect driving safety (allowed up to 5)
• Medium Mistakes: May potentially endanger safety in certain situations (allowed 2 of the same type OR 3 of different types)
• Dangerous Mistakes: Create immediate threat to road safety—exam is stopped immediately if this occurs

Automatic Exam Failure Conditions

You will not pass the driving test if you:

1. Fail to complete any exercise in two attempts
2. Make a dangerous mistake
3. Make more than two medium mistakes of the same nature, or more than three medium mistakes of different types
4. Make more than five minor mistakes

If you pass the exam, congratulations! You’ll receive your European-standard driver’s license within a few hours.

Total Cost Breakdown for First-Time Applicants (2026)

• Theory Course: €500+ (varies by driving school)
• Study Materials: €30
• First Aid Course: €30-50
• Medical Examination: €35-40
• Practical Lessons (minimum 20): €500
• Theory Exam Fee: €12
• Practical Exam Fee: €40-43
• License Card Issue: €22

Estimated Total: €1,170-1,200 minimum (additional lessons will increase costs)

International Driving Permit for Latvia

While your Latvian driver’s license is valid throughout the European Union, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for driving outside the EU. The CSDD issues IDPs for approximately €20, valid for 3 years when accompanied by your Latvian national license. You can apply for an IDP through the e-CSDD portal and have it delivered by post to your address in Latvia.

Driving with a Latvian license provides excellent access to European roads and highways. However, if you plan to drive on other continents, don’t forget to obtain your International Driver’s License in Latvia. If you need one for your travels, you can process it quickly and conveniently through our website.