How to Get a Car Insurance as a Foreigner in South Korea

If you're planning to live or work in South Korea, having car insurance is a must if you're planning on driving. South Korea has a strict policy on car insurance, and driving without it can lead to fines or imprisonment. Car insurance in South Korea can be purchased by foreigners, but there are a few steps you need to follow to ensure you're getting the right insurance policy for your needs. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of buying car insurance in South Korea as a foreigner in detail. Step 1: Get a Korean Driver's License The first step in buying car insurance in South Korea is to get a Korean driver's license. To do this, you'll need to pass a written and practical driving test. The test is available in English, but you'll need to have a good understanding of Korean road signs and regulations. You can apply for a driver's license at any driver's license examination...

How to get South Korea Driver's License for Foreginers?

Getting a driver's license in South Korea as a foreigner can be a bit of a complicated process, but with the right preparation and understanding of the process, it is possible to obtain a valid driver's license. Here's a detailed guide on how to obtain a South Korean driver's license for foreigners.


Korean-English Driver's License

Before we dive into the details, it's important to note that South Korea has very strict traffic laws and regulations, and road safety is taken very seriously. It is crucial to follow all traffic rules and regulations to avoid accidents, fines, and legal issues. Now, let's get started.

Step 1: Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a South Korean driver's license, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Be at least 18 years old.

2. Have a valid passport or Alien Registration Card (ARC).

3. Be in South Korea legally with a valid visa.

4. Pass a medical examination.

5. Pass a written and practical driving test.


Step 2: Obtain a Medical Certificate

Before applying for a driver's license, you must obtain a medical certificate. You can do this by visiting a hospital or clinic in South Korea and undergoing a medical examination. The examination will include a vision test, hearing test, blood pressure test, and a general health check-up.

The medical certificate must be issued within 3 months of your application for a driver's license. You will need to keep the original copy of the certificate and submit a photocopy when you apply for your driver's license.

Step 3: Take a Written Test

The next step is to take a written test. You can take the test in English or Korean, and it covers traffic laws, road signs, and basic driving rules. The test consists of 40 multiple-choice questions, and you must score at least 60% to pass.

You can take the written test at any designated driver's license examination center. You will need to bring your passport, ARC, and the medical certificate. The test fee is 7,000 KRW.

Step 4: Take a Practical Test

After passing the written test, you can apply for a practical driving test. The practical test consists of two parts: a driving course and a road test.

The driving course is designed to test your basic driving skills, such as parking, turning, and reversing. The road test is designed to test your ability to drive safely on the road and follow traffic laws.

You can take the practical test at any designated driver's license examination center. You will need to bring your passport, ARC, the medical certificate, and your foreign driver's license (if you have one). You will also need to provide a vehicle for the test, which can be rented from a driving school or a rental car company.

The practical test fee is 20,000 KRW for the driving course and 30,000 KRW for the road test.

Step 5: Receive Your Driver's License

If you pass both the written and practical tests, you will receive your South Korean driver's license. The license is valid for up to 10 years, depending on your age and driving record.

The driver's license will indicate the type of vehicle you are permitted to drive, such as a passenger car, motorcycle, or large commercial vehicle. If you want to drive a different type of vehicle, you will need to take an additional test for that category.

Additional Information:

➤Conversion of Foreign Driver's License

If you have a valid foreign driver's license, you may be able to convert it to a South Korean driver's license without taking the written or practical test. The conversion process varies depending on your nationality and the country where your driver's license was issued. You will need to follow these steps:

  1. Obtain a translation of your foreign driver's license: You will need to have your foreign driver's license translated into Korean by an authorized translation service. You can find a list of authorized translation services on the website of the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  2. Visit the Driver's License Examination Center: You will need to visit the Driver's License Examination Center with your translated foreign driver's license, your passport, ARC, and the medical certificate.
  3. Submit your documents: You will need to submit your documents and pay a fee of 10,000 KRW.
  4. Wait for the processing of your application: The processing time can take up to 2 weeks, and you will be notified when your South Korean driver's license is ready for collection.

Note: The conversion process may vary depending on your country of origin and the type of driver's license you hold. It is recommended that you check with the Driver's License Examination Center for specific requirements and procedures.


➤Driving Schools

If you are not confident in your driving skills or need additional training before taking the practical test, you can attend a driving school in South Korea. Driving schools offer classes and training programs to help you prepare for the written and practical tests.

You can find driving schools in South Korea through online directories or by asking for recommendations from friends or colleagues. The fees for driving schools vary depending on the type and duration of the course.


➤International Driving Permit (IDP)

If you are in South Korea on a short-term basis and do not plan on staying for an extended period, you can use an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in South Korea. An IDP is a translation of your foreign driver's license and is recognized in South Korea for up to one year.

To obtain an IDP, you will need to apply in your home country before arriving in South Korea. You will also need to carry your foreign driver's license with you when driving in South Korea.



In conclusion, obtaining a South Korean driver's license as a foreigner requires patience, time, and effort. By following the steps outlined in this guide and familiarizing yourself with South Korean traffic laws and regulations, you can obtain a valid driver's license and safely navigate the roads of South Korea.

위치: 대한민국 서울특별시