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Russia Ends Automatic Three-Year Driver’s License Renewals on Jan. 1

Licenses expiring from 2026 no longer qualify for automatic renewal, requiring standard replacements to remain compliant.

Overview

  • The government resolution extended national licenses that expired or were due to expire between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2025 by three years.
  • The Interior Ministry said the extension runs from each license’s actual expiration date and cannot be applied a second time.
  • Documents expiring on January 1, 2026 or later are not covered by the automatic renewal.
  • The procedure to obtain a replacement license remains unchanged and does not require exams, according to the ministry.
  • Legal experts warned that driving with an expired license can bring a 5,000–15,000 ruble fine, removal from driving and vehicle detention, and advised applying for replacement via Gosuslugi or at GIBDD offices before the holidays.