Driving in Sweden with foreign licence

Driving in Sweden with a Foreign Licence

If you already have a driving licence from another country, you may be allowed to drive in Sweden for a limited time or under certain conditions. The rules depend mainly on whether your licence was issued in an EEA or non-EEA country.

Quick check

Check where your licence was issued, how long you have lived in Sweden and whether you need to apply for a Swedish driving licence.

Can you drive in Sweden with a foreign licence?

In many cases, yes — but the rules are different for EEA and non-EEA licences. You should always check your own situation before driving, especially if you are registered as a resident in Sweden.

EEA driving licence

A driving licence issued in an EEA country is normally valid in Sweden if it is valid in the country where it was issued and has not been exchanged for a Swedish licence.

Non-EEA driving licence

A non-EEA driving licence is normally valid for one year from the date you were registered as a resident in Sweden.

After the validity period

If your foreign licence is no longer valid in Sweden, you may need to apply for a Swedish driving licence and pass the required tests.

Official source: Transportstyrelsen – I have a driving licence

EEA and non-EEA licence rules compared

Licence typeGeneral rule in SwedenWhat to do next
EEA licenceNormally valid in Sweden as long as it is valid in the issuing country and has not been exchanged.Keep the licence valid and check renewal or exchange rules if needed.
Non-EEA licenceNormally valid for one year from the date you were registered in Sweden.Prepare for the Swedish licence process before the one-year period ends.
Expired or not validYou are not allowed to drive if the licence is not valid in Sweden.Apply for a Swedish driving licence and complete the required steps.

When should you start studying for a Swedish licence?

If your licence is from outside the EEA: Start early. The Swedish theory test and driving test require preparation.
If Swedish is not your strongest language: Study the theory in English and practise explained questions.
If you drive often: Learn Swedish signs, parking rules and local traffic behaviour before problems occur.

Need a Swedish driving licence?

Study the theory in English, practise explained questions and prepare for the Swedish driving theory test step by step.

FAQ: Driving in Sweden with a foreign licence

Can I drive in Sweden with a foreign driving licence?

It depends on where your licence was issued and whether you are registered as a resident in Sweden.

Is an EEA driving licence valid in Sweden?

A driving licence issued in an EEA country is normally valid in Sweden if it is valid in the issuing country and has not been exchanged for a Swedish driving licence.

How long is a non-EEA licence valid in Sweden?

A non-EEA licence is normally valid for one year from the date you were registered in Sweden.

What should I do if my foreign licence is no longer valid?

You may need to apply for a Swedish driving licence and pass the required theory and driving tests.