If you’re living in Korea and plan to drive more than occasionally, getting a Korean driver’s license is one of those “worth it” errands. It makes car insurance and car ownership smoother, and it avoids the awkward situation of relying on short-term permissions when your stay becomes long-term.
The confusing part is that foreigners usually have two different paths:
- Path A: Exchange your foreign license (if your country/license is eligible)
- Path B: Get a Korean license by testing (written + driving tests)
This guide explains both paths using KoROAD’s official English guidance (KoROAD operates the driver’s license system in Korea), and it highlights the mistakes that commonly waste a trip.
Official Links (Use These Only)
- KoROAD Safe Driving Integrated System (English guides): License Application Process
- Driver’s License Exchange (official): Driver’s License Exchange (procedure)
- KoROAD location list (test centers / offices): Examination Office Locations
- Easy Law (government legal info, English): Foreign Driver’s License / Exchange / IDP – Legal Overview
Step 1: Decide Your Path (Exchange vs Test)
If you already have a valid driver’s license from your home country, start by checking the KoROAD exchange process. KoROAD’s official exchange guide explains the workflow: document review (including embassy confirmation, where applicable), aptitude/medical test, and issuance of a Korean license. Some countries may be exempt from the written test depending on recognition arrangements. (KoROAD exchange guide)
If you don’t have a usable foreign license (or you’re not eligible to exchange), follow the standard “apply → safety education → written exam → driving tests” process described in KoROAD’s license application guide. (KoROAD application process)
Path A: Exchanging a Foreign License (Most Expats Want This)
KoROAD’s official exchange procedure is basically:
- Submit required documents (KoROAD notes embassy confirmation may be part of this review)
- Aptitude/medical test
- Written test (may be exempt depending on country recognition)
- License issuance
Official procedure reference: Driver’s License Exchange (KoROAD)
Human tip: The exchange path is “simple” only if your documents are clean. If your name format differs between passport and license (middle names, hyphens, spacing), expect extra verification requests. Fixing a mismatch later is much more annoying than getting it right upfront.
What You’ll Typically Need for Exchange (Core Set)
Exact document lists can vary by case, but KoROAD’s exchange guide makes it clear the process includes document review, often including embassy confirmation (where required), plus aptitude testing, and sometimes the written test. The safe approach is to bring a complete identity + residency + license verification set.
- Passport
- ARC / Residence Card (or the foreigner registration document you have)
- Your valid foreign driver’s license
- License authentication proof (KoROAD mentions embassy confirmation as part of document review where applicable)
- Photos (KoROAD commonly uses 3.5×4.5cm photos for applications)
Official exchange reference: KoROAD Exchange Guide
Path B: Getting a Korean License by Testing (From Scratch)
If you’re taking the standard route, KoROAD’s official process includes a required safety education before the written test. KoROAD also lists basic “things to prepare” (application form, ID, photos) and a typical fee range depending on license class and health check location. (KoROAD application process)
In real-life terms, the process usually feels like this:
- Safety education (required before written exam)
- Written exam
- Driving course test
- On-road driving test
- License issuance
Human tip: Don’t show up thinking you can “just take the written test.” KoROAD explicitly states safety education must be completed before applying for the written exam. (KoROAD)
Where to Do It (Pick the Correct Office)
KoROAD publishes an official list of examination office locations (including major Seoul offices like Gangnam, Dobong, Gangseo, etc.). If you go to the wrong place, you can lose hours—or be told to rebook. Use the official location list to confirm addresses. (KoROAD locations)
Common Mistakes Foreigners Make (These Waste a Full Day)
- Name mismatch across documents: passport vs ARC vs foreign license spelling/spacing
- Missing verification paper: KoROAD’s exchange procedure can involve embassy confirmation/document review
- Assuming written test exemption without checking: exemption depends on recognition arrangements (KoROAD notes this in exchange guidance)
- Skipping safety education: KoROAD states it must be completed before applying for the written exam
- Going late in the day: admin desks close earlier than you think—plan a morning visit
FAQ (Quick Answers)
Q1) Can I exchange my home country license for a Korean license?
Often yes, depending on your country/license status. KoROAD’s official exchange guide explains the process and notes that written test exemption may apply for countries that recognize Korean licenses. (KoROAD exchange guide)
Q2) Do I need safety education before the written test?
Yes. KoROAD states applicants must complete traffic safety education before applying for the written exam. (KoROAD application process)
Q3) Where do I find official test center addresses?
Use KoROAD’s official examination office location list. (KoROAD locations)