Driving lessons and Russian driving test
If you are required to pass a practical Russian driving test, your first step to getting a Russian driving license is to register for driving lessons. You must practice driving for a set amount of hours (usually 50 hours), between a period of two to six months.
Courses vary in length and cost, but it’s essential to pick a provider that is registered with your local GIBDD. Many Russian driving schools offer packages to study for both the theoretical and practical Russian driving tests. You’ll generally take your Russian driving test in the same areas you practice in.
You will need to complete two sections to pass your Russian driving exam: on a test track, usually taken at or near your driving school, as well as on public roads. The examiner may use trick questions or instructions, so you will need to know the correct place to drive or park.
The Russian driving test is stricter now. Previously, there were three exercises; now, drivers must complete five exercises (or six in a circuit or test track).
Some examples of exercises include:
- Reverse entry into a parking space
- Parallel parking
- Turn in confined spaces
- Turn 90 degrees
- Drive through crossroads
If you pass, with your certificate you can proceed to book the final part of the test, the theoretical exam.
An obstacle to the practical test for foreign drivers is that it’s not possible to take the test in English nor bring a translator during the examination. You could also try to pass the driving test in your home country before coming to Russian, meaning you may be required to only need to take the theoretical Russian driving test.
The theoretical Russian driving exam and fees
The theoretical Russian driving test consists of 20 multiple choice questions about traffic rules in Russia, and the requirements to pass were made stricter in 2017. You can make two mistakes, after which an additional five questions will be added. All five additional questions must be correct, otherwise it will result in a fail. Book an appointment online or by visiting your local traffic police unit .You’ll receive an appointed time to take the Russian driving test, and directions on how to pay the necessary fees in advance.
The cost to issue your Russian driving license is around RUB 2,000. If you book and pay online or electronically, you may be granted a 30 percent discount (total fee RUB 1,400). Other fees may also be payable for the different parts of the driving test.
After passing the theoretical exam, you receive your Russian driving license that day. The whole testing process and receiving your license is typically an hour.
Getting your Russian driver’s license
If you pass the theoretical Russian driving test, you should be issued with a Russian driver’s license immediately at the test center. Driving licenses in Russia are provided in the form of plastic cards that look similar to an EU driving license.
The license expiry date will be the same as that on your residence permit. If your duration of residence is extended, you can have your Russian driving license’s expiry date extended at the GIBDD office for the same period without needing to take another Russian driving test.
When applying for a Russian driver’s license, the following documents are necessary:
- A completed application form
- Your passport
- Proof of passing a driving course
- A valid Russian residence permit
- A medical certificate from your doctor saying you are fit to drive
- A color photograph
- Your original foreign driving license
- A photocopy of your driving license with a notarized translation.
Driving schools in Russia
Courses and lessons are available from a number of authorized Russian driving schools and, provided it is registered with the GIBDD, you can opt for any driving school of your choice.
The driving courses generally last from around two to six months, although you will find a variety of services and fees. You can book a package costing around RUB 15,000–20,000 which includes lessons for both the theoretical and practical driving exams.
The government provides a list of registered driving schools in Moscow here; you can find driving schools in every region by changing the area on the website.
Driving in Russia: requirements
Required documents when driving in Russia
Due to random vehicle inspections by the road police (GIBDD, formerly GAI), it’s important to carry all of the appropriate documents when driving in Russia.
If you fail to produce any of the following when asked, you could face an on-the-spot fine:
- Foreign driving license or Russian driving license
- International driving permit
- Proof of insurance
- Proof of vehicle ownership
- Vehicle inspection card (if applicable)
According to Russian driving requirements, you’ll also need to carry several items designed to improve road safety, including:
- Warning triangle
- First-aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Headlight beam deflectors
- Spare light bulbs
Russian driving laws
Driving in Russia is on the right side of the road. The driver and all passengers must wear seatbelts, and children younger than 12 years cannot travel in the front of the car unless in a child seat. Using a mobile phone while driving in Russia is illegal if you don’t have a hands-free kit, as is driving a dirty car (especially if the license plate is obscured).
Speed limits for driving in Russia
The general speed limits for motorcyles and cars in Russia under 3.5 tonnes are:
- Built-up areas – 60km/h
- Expressways – 110km/h
- Other roads – 110km/h
- Sign-posted residential areas – 20km/h.
The speed limits for larger cars in Russia and vehicles with trailers are:
- Built-up areas – 60km/h
- Expressways – 90km/h
- Other roads – 70km/h
- Sign-posted residential areas – 20km/h.
Driving and drinking laws in Russia
Russia operates a zero-tolerance attitude to drunk driving and you could face a jail term if found guilty. If you’re stopped and are found to be over the limit, you’ll need to give a blood sample for further investigation.
The strict Russian road rules surrounding drunk driving also apply to drugs. In Moscow, police are piloting saliva tests for drivers suspected of taking narcotics, and this could be extended throughout the country if successful.