Exchanging a Russian driving licence for a Serbian one: expert support from RICS Consulting

Updated 17.09.2026 · 2 min read

A valid licence, the approved period of residence and vehicle categories are important when exchanging a driving licence. Checking these conditions before paying for a translation or medical examination helps avoid unnecessary costs.

1. When an exchange is possible
2. Do not confuse eligibility to exchange with the period allowed for driving
3. What to prepare for a review
4. Timescales, costs and collection

Article 179 of the Road Traffic Safety Law provides for the exchange of a valid foreign licence by a foreign national with approved residence of at least six months or permanent residence, subject to age and medical requirements and the absence of a driving ban. When the conditions are met, driving and first-aid examinations are not required.

This refers to the approved duration of residence, not a mandatory wait of six months after receiving the card. Temporary, provisional and international driving permits do not replace an eligible national licence for this procedure.

Article 178 sets a separate limit on using a foreign licence: twelve months from the date continuous temporary residence of more than six months, or permanent residence, is approved. Any earlier expiry of the licence itself must also be taken into account.

Do not calculate the period based on advice such as ‘six months after any entry’. If your residence history is complex, it is better to check the particular documents and dates.

• Photographs of both sides of the driving licence.
• Passport and evidence of approved residence.
• Address in Serbia and a list of the categories you need to retain.
• Existing translations and medical documents, if any.
• Information on name discrepancies, replacement licences or restrictions.

After the review, we will organise any missing translation, the medical stage, application preparation and submission. Unclear categories or validity periods may require additional evidence.

The estimate separately shows support, the medical examination, translation and current payments. The overall timetable depends on document completeness, appointments and checks; the document production period should not be presented as a promise for the entire procedure.

Clarify in advance how the foreign licence will be handled and whether you can drive between application and collection. For trips or relocation to another country, check the rules for using a Serbian licence separately.

Checking before spending is particularly important if your licence is about to expire or you hold several categories. We will assemble the appropriate package and agree the sequence without unnecessary visits.

We will review your starting information, identify the sequence of actions and prepare a cost estimate. You will receive the scope of services, indicative timescales and a clear next step.

Information checked on 17 September 2026. Before applying, confirm the current fees and requirements for your category.

• Serbia’s Ministry of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure: Road Traffic Safety Law