Since the beginning of 2026, a large-scale reform concerning driver training has been launched in Kyrgyzstan. This initiative involves placing driving schools under strict state control. The changes affect an important segment of educational services; however, instead of the expected smooth transition, the market has faced chaos, leading to a temporary suspension of operations and the closure of many educational institutions.
The system before the reform: how it was
In 2025, approximately 340 driving schools were operating in the country, of which 74 were state-owned and 266 were private. Before the reform began, the cost of training ranged from 15,000 to 20,000 soms, and practical lessons were paid separately—from 600 to 900 soms per lesson. The training period was about 2.5 months, allowing for a quick acquisition of a driver's license.
Although the market appeared competitive, the government repeatedly raised concerns about its systemic shortcomings: low quality of training, corruption schemes, and a formal approach to exams.
Changes that occurred since the end of last year
In anticipation of the reform, the authorities announced a moratorium on issuing new licenses to driving schools, and from the beginning of 2026, began implementing stricter measures. As a result, about fifty educational institutions ceased their activities.
According to one of the closed driving schools, 24.kg reported that students will be able to complete their training and take exams, but the further operation of the institution has been suspended.
Representatives of other driving schools note that decisions were made without prior notice, leading to misunderstandings and tension in the industry.
“We are in a state of uncertainty. This is the last intake for the driving course; we are not accepting new students,” said the director of one of the driving schools in Bishkek.
There are rumors in the market that some driving schools were unofficially advised not to recruit students in the new year. This led to a complete blockage of access to the database for all who ignored the warning.
The government's position: "cleansing the system"
The authorities claim that the goal of the reform is not to eliminate the private sector, but to improve the quality of driver training and combat corruption.
Kanybek Tumanbaev, the president's chief of staff, emphasizes that training will only take place in driving schools under state control: “The reform is aimed at cleansing the system, not at eliminating anyone. These measures will not be liked by those who have turned the sale of driver's licenses into a business.”
It is noteworthy that the number of traffic accidents increased in 2025 (over 10,000 accidents) compared to 2024 (7,423 accidents), which is a result of problems that had long been ignored.
“Previously, driver's licenses could be obtained in private driving schools, which led to a high number of accidents. A lack of driving culture and a careless approach to training created a situation where chaos reigns on the roads. Each accident involves human tragedies,” Kanybek Tumanbaev noted in one of his interviews.
New training conditions: longer, but "cheaper"?
From mid-February this year, applications from driving schools will be accepted under new standards, which imply a longer and more systematic training process.
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According to Daiyrbek Orunbekov, head of the information policy of the presidential administration, the official cost of training will be 19,000 soms; however, the training period will be extended to 10 months. At the same time, students will pay separately for fuel, practical lessons, and other expenses.
The authorities believe this model is more accessible, comparing it to previous private driving schools where the total cost of training could reach 35,000-36,000 soms. However, representatives of the private sector disagree, pointing out the flexibility of costs depending on the volume of practical lessons.
International experience: how drivers are trained in other countries
Comparing the duration and approaches to driver training in different countries shows the absence of a universal standard.
Russia
In 2025-2026, training for category B in Russia takes from 3 to 4.5 months (11-12 weeks). The full course includes about 190 hours, a significant portion of which is devoted to theory, training at a driving range, and in urban conditions, as well as internal exams before being allowed to take state tests.
USA
In the United States, training periods are shorter—from a few weeks to one or two months. Much depends on the state and the age of the student. Teenagers often undergo training as part of school programs, while adults choose accelerated courses. The process of obtaining a license includes mandatory theoretical and practical exams.
Japan
The training system in Japan is one of the longest and strictest. Training in driving schools takes on average about six months, with a program that includes in-depth theoretical preparation and at least 31 hours of practice both on a closed course and in urban traffic conditions. Special attention is paid to discipline, safety, and road behavior culture.
Europe
In most European countries, training lasts from two to five months. Usually, there are no fixed terms—the process continues until the student is deemed ready for the exam. In Germany, for example, waiting for the practical exam can stretch the entire process to four months or more, even with intensive training.
Driving schools and future drivers awaiting new rules
The reform of driving schools in Kyrgyzstan represents an attempt to radically change one of the problematic areas. Nevertheless, the rigidity and closed nature of the transitional period have caused dissatisfaction among businesses. The success of these transformations will depend on the authorities' ability to ensure transparent rules, timely communication, and a balance between state control and market conditions.
Despite the announced reforms and references to international experience, the driver training system in Kyrgyzstan remains in a transitional and uncertain state.
The question remains open as to whether private driving schools will transition to full state management or be offered another format of operation. There is also interest in whether the 10-month training program, which the authorities claim will be ready by February, can be implemented without disruptions.
At the moment, the system is on pause for driving schools and thousands of potential drivers.
