How to Obtain a Driver’s License in Finland – The Only Real Guide You’ll Ever Need
If you are living in Finland and want to get your driver’s license, this guide was made for you. Not a generic checklist. Not some robotic summary. A real guide that explains the actual steps, the real cost, and the small details nobody tells you until you are knee deep in paperwork or sitting nervously at the driving exam office in the middle of January.
Getting your Finnish driver’s license is a structured process but also an experience that teaches you more than just how to drive. It tests your patience, your focus, your ability to handle rules and responsibility. Whether you are a young adult, a foreigner living in Finland, a student or just finally decided to take control of the wheel, here is the only guide you need. Written by someone who understands the system inside out.
Step 1 – Confirm You Are Eligible to Apply
Before anything else, make sure you meet the basic eligibility conditions:
- You must be at least 18 years old to get a permanent category B license for cars.
- You can begin training earlier, at 17, through supervised instruction.
- You need to be officially residing in Finland. That means you have a personal identity code and a municipality of residence (kotikunta).
- You must be medically fit to drive.
If you are a tourist or short-term visitor, you cannot apply unless you are exchanging an eligible foreign license. More on that later.
Step 2 – Get a Medical Certificate
This part is not optional. You must visit a licensed doctor in Finland for a health check. The test includes:
- Eye exam
- Questions about alcohol and drug history
- Blood pressure check
- Hearing assessment if necessary
- Any health condition that could affect your ability to drive
Ask for the certificate for your driver’s license application. It is called the medical certificate for driving license (ajokorttitodistus). If you are under 70 and healthy, it is valid for five years.
Step 3 – Apply for a Driving License Permit (Ajokorttilupa)
Before you can take any exams, you need permission from Traficom, the national transport agency. This is called the driving license permit.
You can apply online at Traficom using Finnish bank credentials or mobile ID, or go physically to an Ajovarma office, which handles applications on behalf of Traficom.
Bring the following:
- Valid ID or passport
- Medical certificate
- Passport photo (biometric, less than 6 months old)
- If required, documents about your residence in Finland
Details and online application:
https://www.traficom.fi/en/transport/road/driving-licences/applying-driving-licence-permit
Step 4 – Complete the Required Theoretical Courses
All first-time drivers must complete certain courses before taking any exams:
EAS – First License Training
This is mandatory for anyone applying for their first license. It includes four hours of classroom or online training.
Risk Recognition Training (RTK)
Required toward the end of your driving lessons. Covers night driving, slippery conditions, emergency braking, and hazard awareness. Usually takes four practical sessions and is done with simulators or real conditions.
You can take both through a driving school or an approved online training provider.
Step 5 – Decide Between Driving School and Private Instruction
You have two legal options to learn how to drive in Finland.
Option A – Attend a Driving School (Autokoulu)
This is the most common path. Finnish driving schools follow strict rules and offer complete packages. You receive both theory and driving lessons. Schools also help with bookings and give you structured training.
Option B – Learn Through Private Instruction (Opetuslupa)
A family member or friend can teach you to drive, but they must apply for a teaching permit from Traficom. Their car must have dual pedals. You will still have to complete theory courses and risk training through official channels.
Cost is cheaper this way, but the process requires more personal responsibility and preparation.
Details for teaching permit:
https://www.traficom.fi/en/services/teaching-driving-instruction-permit
Step 6 – Study for the Theory Exam
You cannot pass this part by guessing. Finland’s theory exam is strict and includes:
- Traffic rules
- Road signs
- Hazard situations
- Situational analysis
- Multiple choice questions and visual tests
You can take the test in Finnish, Swedish or English. No translators allowed during the exam.
Prepare with apps like:
These offer real past exam questions and simulate the test experience.
Step 7 – Take and Pass the Theory Exam
Book the exam through Ajovarma. It takes around 30 minutes. Bring:
- ID
- Proof of completed EAS training
- License permit confirmation
Results are given immediately after the test. If you fail, you can rebook after a waiting period.
Find testing centers and booking info here:
https://www.ajovarma.fi/
Step 8 – Take Driving Lessons
Now it is time to get behind the wheel. If you are using a driving school, they will assign an instructor and vehicle.
You must learn how to:
- Drive in city traffic
- Use motorways and roundabouts
- Park correctly
- Follow right of way rules
- Navigate in different weather conditions
- Handle emergency stops and night driving
Average lessons needed: 20 to 30
Average cost per lesson: 45 to 80 euros
Some schools offer package deals that include everything from theory training to simulator practice.
Step 9 – Complete the Risk Recognition Training
This is the final stage before the driving test. It is hands-on and often includes:
- Night driving simulation
- Skid control
- Emergency scenarios
- Defensive driving
Every student must complete this, whether in school or private instruction.
You will receive a certificate needed for your final test.
Step 10 – Book and Pass the Practical Driving Test
Once your instructor feels you are ready, or if you are training privately and have logged enough hours, book your practical exam at an Ajovarma testing office.
The test lasts around 45 minutes and includes:
- Basic vehicle check (lights, tires, windscreen wipers)
- Traffic driving in city and suburban environments
- Speed adjustment and safe braking
- Awareness of signs and road users
- Parking or reversing maneuvers
The examiner watches everything silently and takes notes. They tell you the result at the end of the test.
Step 11 – Get Your Temporary License and Wait for the Plastic Card
If you pass, you receive a temporary license paper on the spot. The real card is sent by post within 1 to 3 weeks.
You can legally drive with the temporary license in Finland and EU countries.
Track your license status or update your address here:
https://www.traficom.fi/en/services/driving-licence
Step 12 – If You Have a Foreign Driver’s License
If your license is from an EU or EEA country, you can usually exchange it directly. Bring:
- Your original license
- Passport or ID
- Residence permit if needed
- Application for exchange
- Passport photo if requested
If your license is from outside the EU, you can drive for 2 years after becoming a resident. After that, you must convert or apply for a Finnish license.
Info for conversion:
https://www.traficom.fi/en/transport/road/driving-licences/foreign-driving-licence
Important Final Notes That Most People Don’t Mention
- Finland uses a point system. New drivers start with less points. Traffic offenses can lead to faster suspensions.
- You must carry your license whenever driving. A digital image is not enough.
- Insurance is mandatory and costly for new drivers. Get offers from several companies.
- Always use winter tires between November and March. Driving without them can lead to heavy fines.
- Never drive after alcohol. Police do random breath tests and the legal limit is very low.
Getting a driver’s license in Finland is not easy, and it’s not supposed to be. But the process makes you a safe and responsible driver. It takes time, effort, and money, but at the end you gain full freedom to move across this beautiful country.
Whether you are in Tampere, Turku, Lahti, Oulu or Helsinki, the rules are the same and the system is designed to protect lives. Take it seriously, prepare well, and you will succeed.
If you still have doubts or questions, visit your nearest Ajovarma office or contact Traficom for personalized assistance. Every journey starts with one step. This is yours.
