Driving in Malta - Amazing or a Total Mess?!
Alex in Malta · EN
Living in Malta
Driving Licence in Malta
Converting your foreign licence, validity rules, and what you need to know
Practical guidance
Processes, costs, and providers may change. This page reflects conditions in early 2026 — always confirm details with the relevant authority or provider.
If you hold a driving licence from a non-EU country, you can drive in Malta on that licence for up to one year from the date your residence permit is issued. After that, you must convert or exchange it for a Maltese licence — you cannot simply continue driving on the foreign licence.
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How Long Is Your Foreign Licence Valid?
Third-country nationals can use their home-country driving licence in Malta for up to 12 months from the date their residence permit is issued. After 12 months, you must hold a Maltese driving licence to legally drive. If you do not convert in time, you would need to sit the full Maltese driving test.
Converting (Exchanging) Your Licence
Malta has exchange agreements with some countries. If your country is on the exchange list, you can swap your foreign licence for a Maltese one without retaking a test. You submit the application to Transport Malta with your foreign licence, residence card, and a medical certificate. Transport Malta retains your original licence.
Countries With Exchange Agreements
Exchange agreements exist with countries including Australia, Canada, Japan, South Africa, Switzerland, the UK, and others. The full list is published on Transport Malta's website. If your country is not on the list, you must complete the full theory and practical driving tests in Malta.
If You Need to Take the Test
The Maltese driving test involves a theory examination (road signs, rules) and a practical driving test. Theory tests can be booked online via Transport Malta. Driving schools in Malta offer lessons and mock tests in English. The theory test is available in English.
Driving Rules to Know
Malta drives on the left side of the road. Speed limits: 80 km/h on open roads, 50 km/h in urban areas, 25 km/h in school zones. Seatbelts are mandatory. Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited. Traffic congestion is heavy in the Sliema–St Julian's–Valletta corridor, especially during rush hours.
Practical Tips
✓Check if your country has an exchange agreement with Malta before planning — it saves time and money
✓Apply for conversion before the 12-month deadline; Transport Malta queues can be slow
✓Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your home country before travelling as a precaution
✓Book your theory test slot early — waiting times can be several weeks
✓Driving schools can help you prepare for both the theory and practical tests in English
Official Source
Transport Malta — Driving Licences ↗More About Living in Malta
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