Title
Residents abroad can now apply for the English-language driving licence without returning home Until now applicants had to travel back themselves or send a representative with a power of attorney and a passport copy to each administrative office.
- Related countries
- 영국, 캐나다
Content
Apostille Korea said it has launched an issuance service for users living in the 33 countries where the English-language driving licence is valid, or heading abroad. Renewing or reissuing an international driving permit or an existing driving licence from overseas had required a complicated procedure. The service covers everything from application to overseas delivery, so a new English-language licence can be received on site.
- Apostille Korea has launched an issuance service for the English-language driving licence.
- Applicants previously had to return home to apply, or have a representative visit each administrative office with a power of attorney and a passport copy.
- The licence can be used to drive in 33 countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Guam and Singapore.
- The English-language licence does not serve as an identity card abroad, so a passport must be carried with it.
Why renewing a licence from abroad was difficult
People travelling or living abroad who needed to renew or reissue an international driving permit or an existing driving licence faced a complicated and demanding procedure. One route was to spend the time and money to return home and apply in person. Going through a representative meant preparing several documents, from a power of attorney to a passport copy, and visiting each administrative office. There were cases of people flying home specifically to obtain a reissue before the validity period expired. On top of that, issuance of the English-language driving licence began on the 16th, prompting more questions from users abroad about how to obtain the new card. The underlying constraint, that reaching a domestic issuance counter is difficult, remained unchanged.
What the service covers
Apostille Korea has launched an issuance service for users living in the 33 countries where the English-language driving licence is valid, or preparing to travel abroad. Applications made online or by phone are handled through the domestic issuance procedure, with delivery arranged overseas. A newly issued English-language licence can therefore be received anywhere in the world, removing the need to fly home. The licence, however, is valid for driving in only 33 countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Guam and Singapore, and the plan is to expand that list through coordination between countries. It also does not serve as an identity card abroad, so it must be carried together with a passport. Because periods of use and conditions differ by country, checking before departure is necessary.
Frequently asked questions
Can the English-language licence be obtained from abroad without returning home?
Yes. Applications made online or by phone are processed through the domestic issuance procedure and delivered overseas.
In which countries can the English-language licence be used?
In 33 countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Guam and Singapore, with the list expected to grow through coordination between countries.
Does the English-language licence replace an identity card?
No. It does not serve as an identity card abroad, so it must be carried together with a passport.
Source: 아이티비즈 · 2019-09-26