Support for Ukraine isn’t only missiles: Lithuania opens driving exams in Ukrainian for refugees

As of today, the theoretical driving exam at Regitra in Lithuania can be taken in Ukrainian, Delfi reports. This decision expands access to essential public services for thousands of Ukrainians who, due to Russian aggression, have been forced to temporarily live and work outside their home country.

A driver’s license as a tool for survival, not a formality

The ability to take the exam in one’s native language removes a serious language barrier for people who work, study, or raise children in Lithuania. For many, a driver’s license is not about comfort — it is about employment, access to healthcare, logistics, caring for family members, and basic independence.

Until now, theoretical exams at Regitra were conducted in Lithuanian, Polish, English, Spanish, and French. Adding Ukrainian is a targeted step toward a community that has grown sharply since the start of Russia’s full-scale war.

Solidarity in action: decision after thousand requests

According to Lithuania’s Minister of the Interior, Vladislavas Kondratovičius, the decision was made in response to numerous appeals from Ukrainians.

“We received many requests from Ukrainians to take exams in their native language, so we could not remain indifferent. Most of these people came to Lithuania fleeing the large-scale war unleashed by Russia against Ukraine,” he says.

The minister stressed that this step ensures access to public services while also demonstrating solidarity with Ukraine and its citizens who hold temporary protection status in Lithuania.

Those wishing to take the theoretical driving exam can register online through the Regitra system, selecting Ukrainian as the exam language.