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Uzbekistan is seeking recognition of its driver’s licenses in Germany to make it easier for its citizens to work in the country’s transport sector. The talks are linked to efforts to place Uzbek citizens in jobs with German transport and logistics companies. No agreement on license recognition has been reached so far.
The issue was discussed at a meeting between Elyor Toshtemirov, deputy head of Uzbekistan’s Migration Agency, and representatives of the German companies Global Talent Alliance and TSK Logistik. The participants discussed driver training and the requirements of German employers. The Uzbek agency intends to raise the possibility of license recognition with the relevant German authorities.
Another proposal involves establishing a joint German-Uzbek driving school to train bus and truck drivers. Training would follow German standards so that graduates could qualify for jobs with transport companies in Germany.
Under current German rules, drivers with licenses issued outside the European Union and European Economic Area can generally use them for six months after establishing residence in Germany. After that, they must obtain a German license. Professional truck and bus drivers must also meet separate qualification requirements.
The meeting also addressed difficulties Uzbek citizens face in obtaining German work visas. Following the talks, the Migration Agency and Global Talent Alliance signed a cooperation agreement. Its terms have not been disclosed in detail.
Uzbekistan has already reached an agreement with the United Arab Emirates on mutual recognition of driver’s licenses. The relevant memorandum entered into force on January 27, 2024, allowing citizens of both countries to use their national licenses during short-term visits. It also allows Uzbek residents in the UAE to exchange their licenses without taking theoretical or practical driving tests.
Sadokat Jalolova