Kaktus.media offers a detailed guide on exchanging licenses, taking into account all necessary nuances.
Historical Background
In August 2025, Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev announced that indefinite driver's licenses must be replaced for those planning to travel abroad, as such documents are not recognized internationally. For those who only travel within the republic, there should be no particular concerns.However, in November 2025, a presentation of new licenses took place at the Presidential Administration, and it was announced that the replacement of indefinite licenses applies to all citizens.
Who Needs to Replace Their License?
All indefinite licenses issued between 2009 and 2012, as well as those that have expired, are subject to replacement.How Many Licenses Need to Be Replaced?
The State Enterprise "Unaa" could not provide exact data, but it is known that there are quite a few such licenses.Drivers' Reactions
The information about the need to exchange licenses caused significant public resonance. Nevertheless, by 2026, despite the active process of exchanging indefinite licenses, there were no mass queues observed at the State Enterprise "Unaa".Additionally, applications for exchange could be submitted through the "Tunduk" app.
Current Situation
After the New Year holidays, drivers began actively exchanging their licenses. To do this, they needed to obtain a medical certificate of form 083, which could only be done at a clinic. Online appointment scheduling was not available.As a result, long queues formed at clinics, causing dissatisfaction among both drivers and doctors, who faced increased workloads, as well as regular patients who could not see a doctor.
On January 14, the Presidential Administration of the Kyrgyz Republic announced that the 083 certificate is no longer required for exchanging licenses.
Deadlines for License Replacement
Currently, there is no regulated deadline for replacement. On January 13, 2026, it was announced that the free replacement of indefinite driver's licenses would last until February 15, 2026, after which the service would cost 799 soms.On January 19, it became known that the deadline for free exchange was extended to March 15, 2026, but the final date would be determined later, after the completion of the exchange of all old documents.
Required Documents for Exchange
Currently, drivers whose licenses are displayed in the "Tunduk" app can submit an application for exchange online.This can be done in the "Documents" section.
The application is submitted through the "Services" → Road Transport and Driving → Application for Replacement of Driver's License → Submit Application.
Digitization may take up to 4-5 working days. If the surnames on the driver's license and passport differ (for example, after marriage), the "Tunduk" system should automatically account for this change.
What About Subcategories of Licenses?
Licenses have subcategories that allow for the operation of specific types of vehicles. To obtain them, a practical exam must be passed.This means that one must personally visit the GCRTS and register for the exam, which can also be done later, after the exchange.
If a driver wishes to obtain an additional category, it is recommended to first complete the exchange, and then, after the demand decreases, undergo training and take the exam to update the documents.
Any Questions?
A complete list of branch addresses can be found at the link.Some branches of the State Enterprise "Unaa" and GCRTS operate from 08:30 to 23:00.
Reference information can be obtained by calling the following numbers:
- 0312 63 39 31;
- 0312 63 20 08;
- 0312 63 28 33.
