Non-EU Driving Licence in Sweden
If your driving licence was issued outside the EEA, it is usually valid in Sweden for a limited time after you become registered as a resident. This page explains the one-year rule and what to do before your licence stops being valid.
A non-EEA licence is normally valid for one year from the date you were registered in Sweden.
How long can you use a non-EU driving licence in Sweden?
A driving licence from a country outside the EEA is generally valid in Sweden for one year from the date you were registered as a resident here. After that, the licence normally stops being valid in Sweden unless an exemption applies.
Official source: Transportstyrelsen – Exemption for non-EEA licences
Prepare before your non-EU licence stops being valid
Common non-EU licence situations
| Situation | What it means |
|---|---|
| You recently moved to Sweden | Check when you were registered. The one-year period is important for non-EEA licences. |
| You plan to stay long-term | Start preparing for a Swedish licence early instead of waiting until your foreign licence expires in Sweden. |
| You do not speak Swedish well | You can study theory in English and practise with English explanations before the theory test. |
Start preparing for your Swedish licence in English
If you have a non-EU licence and plan to stay in Sweden, practise Swedish theory questions in English before your foreign licence stops being valid.
FAQ: Non-EU driving licence in Sweden
How long is a non-EU driving licence valid in Sweden?
A non-EEA driving licence is normally valid for one year from the date you were registered in Sweden.
Can I continue driving after one year?
Normally no, unless an exemption applies. If the licence is no longer valid in Sweden, you need a valid Swedish or otherwise accepted licence.
Can I get an exemption for a non-EEA licence?
Transportstyrelsen can grant exemptions in some cases, especially for limited stays where road safety is not affected.
Should I study for the Swedish theory test early?
Yes. The Swedish theory test requires knowledge of traffic rules, road signs, risk awareness, environment and vehicle knowledge.