The whole flow
- Complete 1 hour of traffic safety education (video-based)
- Pass a medical check (vision, color recognition, etc.)
- Pass the written test (40 questions; 70+ for Class 1, 60+ for Class 2)
- Pass the course test (80+)
- Receive a learner's permit
- Pass the road test (70+)
- Receive your driver's license
Safety education and medical check
Before the written test, you must complete a one-hour traffic safety education session. It is a video session at a driving license testing center or driving school; there is no exam, you only need to complete it.
The medical check can be done at the testing center's medical office or at a hospital. If you have a recent national health checkup result, it may be used in place of the check with your consent. Bring ID and a photo of the required size, and wear your glasses or lenses if you use them.
Three tests
The written test is a 40-question computer test. Once you pass, you must pass the course test within one year; otherwise you start again from the written test.
The course test checks basic vehicle handling on a closed course at the testing center. Passing it gets you a learner's permit, and you must pass the road test within the permit's one-year validity.
The road test is taken on public roads with an examiner on board. Passing it gets you a full driver's license.
The three tests must be taken in this order, and you can only apply for the next test after passing the previous one. Each test has its own fee.
Driving school or self-study
At a certified driving school, you take the required hours of course and road training and can then take the tests at the school. If you prepare on your own, you apply directly at a testing center.
When practicing on roads with a learner's permit, someone who has held a license for more than two years must ride with you and supervise, and the car must display a sign showing you are practicing. Driving alone can count as unlicensed driving.
Driving school training is split into course training and road training, and you must complete the set hours to test at the school. If you study on your own, walking the testing center course in advance or watching videos of it helps.
What to bring and how to apply
- ID: a resident registration card, passport or other photo ID
- Photo: a recent photo of the required size (whether you can take one on site varies by center)
- Medical check result: from the testing center, a hospital, or a linked health checkup
- Application: at the testing center in person, or through your driving school
- Booking: course and road tests often require a date and time reservation, so check in advance
After you get your license
Under Korea's Road Traffic Act, anyone within two years of first getting a license is a novice driver. In particular, a novice driver within one year of licensing has the license revoked if penalty points reach 40 or more, so drive with extra care in the first year.
Your license card shows your aptitude test (renewal) period. Check it the day you receive the card and note it in your calendar. Building good habits from the start, like always wearing a seat belt, helps you drive safely for years.
FAQ
How long does it take to get a license?
It depends on test schedules and results. If you pass each step the first time and bookings are available, it can be quick; if testing centers are busy, it takes longer.
Can I take the written test first and take a break?
Yes, but if you don't pass the course test within one year of passing the written test, you must retake the written test.
Can I drive alone with a learner's permit?
No. Someone who has held a license for more than two years must ride with you, and a practice sign must be displayed.
Do I have to attend a driving school?
No. You can apply directly at a testing center and prepare on your own. If you have no driving experience at all, it is wise to arrange somewhere to learn basic controls and safe habits.
Sources
- Road Traffic Act
- Enforcement Rule of the Road Traffic Act
- Korea Road Traffic Authority Safe Driving Civil Service portal
Laws change. This is general information. Check KoROAD or the Korean Law Information Center for the latest rules.
Related
In Korea, driver's licenses are divided into Class 1, Class 2 and learner's permits. Most people choose either Class 1 Ordinary or Class 2 Ordinary for passenger cars; buses, large trucks and tow vehicles require separate licenses.
Written TestIn Korea, the written test is a 40-question computer test; 70 or more passes for Class 1 and 60 or more for Class 2. Questions come from the question bank published by the Korea Road Traffic Authority, so steady practice by topic is enough to prepare.
Course TestIn Korea, the course test checks basic vehicle handling on a closed course at the testing center; 80 points or more passes for both Class 1 and Class 2 Ordinary. Knowing the automatic-fail items matters more than the minor deductions.
Road TestIn Korea, the road test is the final test, taken on public roads with an examiner on board. 70 points or more passes, and mistakes directly tied to safety, such as running a signal or endangering pedestrians, can mean instant failure.
Guide for New DriversAs a new driver, aim to be predictable rather than fast. A good seating position, well-set mirrors, a generous following distance and early turn signals remove many dangerous moments.