In the article on the consequences of transitioning from temporary protection to a work permit, we already addressed the use of a Ukrainian driver’s license as one of the practical implications of such a transition.

It was noted that after this transition, the Ukrainian license is no longer covered by the special rule applicable to persons with temporary protection. Instead, general Swedish law applies.

This has now been confirmed by the Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) in response to our written request.

While a person has temporary protection under the Directive, their Ukrainian driver’s license falls under the special provisions of EU Regulation 2022/1280. This means that the Ukrainian license is recognized in Sweden during the period of temporary protection.

The Swedish Transport Agency confirmed that Ukrainian licenses remain valid under this special rule until the temporary protection status ends.

We also asked what happens if a person has already been registered as residing in Sweden (folkbokförd) for more than one year at the time of transitioning to a work permit or another type of residence permit. The Transport Agency responded that in such cases, the Ukrainian driver’s license is no longer valid in Sweden.

In other words, if a person has held a personal number for more than one year and switches from temporary protection to a work or other permit, the special rule no longer applies. Instead, Swedish national law applies, under which a non-EEA driver’s license is valid for one year from the date of registration of residence (folkbokföring).

If a person has been registered for less than one year at the time of transition, this one year is counted from the original date of registration, not from the date of obtaining the new permit.

The Swedish Transport Agency also confirmed that there is no transitional period or exception for individuals who move from temporary protection to another type of permit.

It is important to note that specific assessments under the Driving Licence Act (körkortslagen) are carried out by the police and the public prosecutor’s office. If stopped by the police, these authorities determine whether the person had the right to drive in that specific situation.

The Transport Agency refers to the legal guidance of the Swedish Prosecution Authority (Åklagarmyndigheten, guidance 2024:4, section 2.4).

Therefore, if you have been registered as a resident in Sweden for more than one year and are planning to switch to a work permit or another residence permit, do not delay obtaining a Swedish driver’s license.

Theory, practice, training, and waiting times all take time.

This is general information based on a response from the Swedish Transport Agency and does not constitute legal advice.

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