Busan
Driver's License
Information on obtaining or validating a driverโs license in Busan for newcomers.
Sections
1. Types of Driverโs Licenses in South Korea
In South Korea, driverโs licenses are categorized based on the type of vehicle you intend to drive. The most common categories are:
- Class 1 General License: For larger vehicles, including buses and trucks.
- Class 2 General License: For standard passenger cars and smaller vehicles (most common for personal use).
- Motorcycle License: For motorcycles and scooters.
- International Driverโs License: For foreigners who need temporary driving privileges in South Korea.
For most visitors and immigrants, the Class 2 General License is the most relevant.
2. Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a driverโs license in Busan, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old for a Class 2 General License.
- Residency: Foreigners must have a valid Alien Registration Card (ARC) and a visa that allows them to stay in South Korea for at least 90 days.
- Language: The written test is available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Japanese. However, the driving test and instructions are typically in Korean, so basic Korean proficiency is helpful.
3. Steps to Obtain a Driverโs License
The process involves several steps, which are outlined below:
Step 1: Health Check
- Where: Health checks can be done at designated hospitals or clinics, or at the Busan Driverโs License Examination Office.
- Cost: Approximately KRW 6,000โ7,000.
- What to Bring: Passport, ARC, and a small passport-sized photo.
- Details: The health check includes a vision test and a general physical examination.
Step 2: Written Test
- Where: Busan Driverโs License Examination Office (specific locations listed below).
- Cost: KRW 7,500.
- Preparation: Study the Korean Road Traffic Act. You can find study materials online or purchase a guidebook. The test consists of 40 multiple-choice questions.
- Languages: The test is available in English, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.
- Passing Score: You need at least 60 out of 100 points to pass.
Step 3: Driving Course Test
- Where: At the Busan Driverโs License Examination Office.
- Cost: KRW 22,000.
- Details: This is a practical test conducted on a closed driving course. You will be tested on basic driving skills, such as starting the car, turning, and parking.
- Preparation: You can take lessons at a driving school in Busan, though it is not mandatory.
Step 4: On-Road Driving Test
- Where: At the Busan Driverโs License Examination Office or designated testing locations.
- Cost: KRW 25,000.
- Details: This test evaluates your ability to drive on public roads. You will be accompanied by an examiner who will give instructions (usually in Korean).
- Preparation: It is highly recommended to take lessons at a driving school to familiarize yourself with local driving rules and test routes.
Step 5: Issuance of Driverโs License
- Where: Busan Driverโs License Examination Office.
- Cost: KRW 8,000.
- What to Bring: Passport, ARC, test results, and a small passport-sized photo.
- Details: Once you pass all the tests, your license will be issued on the same day.
4. Costs Overview
Hereโs a breakdown of the approximate costs:
- Health Check: KRW 6,000โ7,000
- Written Test: KRW 7,500
- Driving Course Test: KRW 22,000
- On-Road Driving Test: KRW 25,000
- License Issuance: KRW 8,000
- Total: KRW 68,500โ69,500 (excluding optional driving school fees)
5. Local Considerations in Busan
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Driverโs License Examination Offices in Busan:
- Busan Driverโs License Examination Office (๋ถ์ฐ์ด์ ๋ฉดํ์ํ์ฅ):
- Address: 77, Gudeok-ro, Seo-gu, Busan
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AMโ6:00 PM
- Phone: +82-51-860-2500
- Haeundae Branch (for some services):
- Address: 35, Songjeong-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan
- Phone: +82-51-749-2500
- Busan Driverโs License Examination Office (๋ถ์ฐ์ด์ ๋ฉดํ์ํ์ฅ):
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Public Transportation: Both offices are accessible via Busanโs extensive subway and bus network. Plan your visit in advance, as the offices can get busy.
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Driving Schools in Busan: While not mandatory, enrolling in a driving school can help you prepare for the practical tests. Some popular options include:
- Busan Driving School (๋ถ์ฐ์ด์ ํ์)
- Haeundae Driving School (ํด์ด๋์ด์ ํ์)
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Cultural Note: South Korea has strict traffic laws, and driving etiquette is important. Familiarize yourself with local driving customs, such as yielding to pedestrians and adhering to speed limits.
6. For Foreigners with an Existing License
If you already have a valid driverโs license from your home country, you may be eligible to exchange it for a Korean license. The process involves:
- Submitting your original license and a notarized translation.
- Passing a health check and a short written test.
- Paying a fee of approximately KRW 12,000.
Note: Some countries have reciprocity agreements with South Korea, allowing for easier license exchange.
7. Additional Tips
- Language Barrier: If you are not fluent in Korean, consider bringing a Korean-speaking friend or hiring a translator to assist you during the process.
- Driving Practice: Use driving simulators or practice in less congested areas of Busan, such as the outskirts, to build confidence.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): If you plan to drive in South Korea temporarily, an IDP may suffice for short stays.
By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to obtain your driverโs license in Busan. Safe driving!