Russia is ending the automatic driver’s license extension that was introduced in 2022. The measure will cease to be effective from January 1, 2026.
Who Received License Extensions
National driver’s licenses expiring between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2025 were automatically extended for 3 years. For example, if a license was set to expire on December 31, 2025, it will remain valid until December 30, 2028. However, if the expiration date is January 1, 2026 or later, the extension does not apply.
When to Replace Your License
Drivers who benefited from automatic extension should check the original expiration date printed on their license. This will help them replace their license in time through standard procedures and avoid fines. For instance, if a license was due to expire on January 1, 2023, the extension was calculated from December 31, 2022 and ended on December 31, 2025. After January 1, 2026, such licenses will be considered invalid.
How the Extension Worked
Through government decree, licenses expiring in 2022-2023 were extended for 3 years. Similar decisions were made in 2023 and 2024.
- During the automatic extension period, drivers could continue using their old licenses without replacement. However, replacement was required if the document became damaged, illegible, if personal data changed, or if medical contraindications were identified.
- A new license must also be obtained if the driver’s license is lost or stolen. Licenses can be replaced in advance or after expiration – the important thing is not to drive with an expired document. Driving with an expired license carries a fine of 5,000 to 15,000 rubles and vehicle impoundment. The standard validity period for Russian driver’s licenses is 10 years, excluding automatic extension periods.
