From January next year, driving tests in Lithuania will take place only in Lithuanian or other official EU languages. However, an exception will be made for Ukrainians, the Interior Ministry said on Tuesday.
The new rules have been introduced under Interior Minister Agnė Bilotaitė’s order. The aim is to promote the use of the state language, strengthen the integration of foreigners into public life, and ensure better cooperation with EU member states.
“This decision will help reduce the impact of external threats on national security. We take a clear and value-based stance that public services in Lithuania cannot be provided in the language of the aggressor country. As an EU country, we guarantee access to services in all official EU languages. Exceptions will be made for Ukrainians residing in Lithuania and enjoying temporary protection in the EU,” the minister was quoted as saying in a statement.
Under the new order, the theory part of the driving test will be available in Lithuanian or another official EU language. During the practical test, people who do not speak Lithuanian will be allowed to be accompanied by an interpreter who can translate into the official EU language of their choice.
A transitional period is planned for those who have started preparing for the test under the current arrangements.
According to data from Regitra, Lithuania’s state-owned enterprise in charge of driving tests and licenses, 10,381 Russian-language driving theory tests were taken last year, compared to 11,560 in the first 11 months of this year.
The Interior Ministry has also issued a recommendation to all subordinate institutions to provide services to the population in Lithuanian or other official EU languages.
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