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Can you take the Turkish driving test in English?
Updated 28 September 2026 · 5 min read
Yes. If you are a foreign national learning to drive in Turkey, you can take the written driving exam (the e-sınav) in English. The exam has 50 questions, you get 45 minutes, and you need 70 points out of 100 to pass. This guide explains how the English option works and how to prepare for it.
Which languages are available?
The Ministry of National Education (MEB), which runs the exam, offers the questions in seven foreign languages for foreign candidates:
- English
- Arabic
- Russian
- German
- French
- Persian (Farsi)
- Chinese
The language option is only for foreign nationals. Turkish citizens take the exam in Turkish.
How to take the exam in English
- Tell your driving school. Say which language you want when you register, or at the latest 3 working days before your exam date. The school enters your choice in the MEB system.
- If you do not ask in time, the exam is in Turkish. The questions are shown in Turkish by default.
- No interpreter is provided. You read the translated questions on screen yourself. Translators are not assigned for foreign candidates.
Exam format and pass mark
| Number of questions | 50 multiple choice (4 options) |
| Time | 45 minutes |
| Scoring | 2 points per question. Wrong answers do not cancel correct ones. |
| Pass mark | 70 / 100, so at least 35 correct answers |
| Where | On a computer at an MEB e-exam centre |
| Result | Usually shown the same day, right after the exam |
Because wrong answers carry no penalty, never leave a question blank. If you are unsure, choose the most likely answer.
Questions by subject
| Subject | Questions |
|---|---|
| Traffic and Environment (traffic rules, signs, right of way) | 23 |
| First Aid | 12 |
| Vehicle Technology (engine and car basics) | 9 |
| Traffic Etiquette (behaviour and courtesy) | 6 |
First Aid and Vehicle Technology are where most candidates lose points, because the terms are unfamiliar. Our free practice test follows the same subject mix.
Get ready to pass first time
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- All 500 questions in English, with explanations
- Full mock exams: 50 questions, 45 minutes, just like the real thing
- Practise by subject and focus on your weak spots
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One-time payment: 249.90 TL · no subscription. A resit costs 1,250 TL.
The driving (practical) test
After you pass the written exam you take driving lessons and then the practical driving test. The practical test is not a language test, but the examiner usually gives instructions in Turkish. It helps to learn a few words before the test:
| Turkish | English |
|---|---|
| Sağa dön / Sola dön | Turn right / Turn left |
| Düz devam et | Go straight on |
| Dur | Stop |
| Park et | Park |
| Geri git | Reverse |
| Kavşak / Işık | Junction / Traffic light |
Ask your instructor to use these words during your lessons so you get used to them.
Exam fees in 2026
- Written e-exam: 1,250 TL for each attempt
- Driving test: 2,000 TL for each attempt
If you fail, you pay the fee again for the next attempt. Licence and card fees are listed in our guide to getting a licence as a foreigner.
Tips to pass first time
- Practise in the language you will use in the exam. Road-rule terms like "right of way" or "priority road" should feel familiar before the exam day.
- Learn the Turkish-specific rules. Speed limits, the 0.50 promil alcohol limit and the emergency number 112 are often asked. See traffic fines and limits.
- Master the road signs. Many signs look alike. Try the road signs test.
- Read negative questions carefully. "Which is WRONG" and "which should NOT be done" questions cause the most mistakes.
- Manage your time. You have about 54 seconds per question. Skip hard ones and come back.
FAQ
Can I take the Turkish driving theory test in English?
Yes. Foreign nationals can take the e-exam in English. Tell your driving school at registration or at least 3 working days before the exam.
Which languages is the Turkish driving exam available in?
English, Arabic, Russian, German, French, Persian and Chinese, in addition to Turkish. The foreign language option is for foreign nationals only.
How many questions are in the Turkish driving test?
The written e-exam has 50 multiple-choice questions and lasts 45 minutes.
What is the pass mark?
70 out of 100, which means at least 35 correct answers. Wrong answers do not cancel correct ones.
Is an interpreter provided?
No. You read the translated questions on screen yourself. Interpreters are not assigned.
Sources: E-exam in another language (IŞIK Sürücü Kursu FAQ) · Language options in the driving e-exam (Teyit). Fees and rules can change; confirm with official sources or your driving school.