Driving in Greece: A Practical Guide for Retirees and Expats

If you’re planning to move to Greece — whether for retirement or a new lifestyle chapter — understanding how driving works is key. From using your foreign license to buying or importing a car, here’s what you need to know before hitting the road.

1. Can You Drive in Greece With a Foreign License?

The short answer: it depends on your country of origin.

• EU/EEA licenses are fully recognised in Greece. You can use them indefinitely without conversion.

• UK, US, Canadian, and Australian licenses are also accepted for driving in Greece until their expiry. After that, you may need to exchange or apply for a Greek license.

• For other licenses, an international driving licence may be required.

• Always carry a copy of your passport, your driver’s license, and vehicle documents when driving.

If you decide to stay in Greece long term, you may want to convert your foreign licence into a Greek one. This can be done after six months of residence (for non-EU citizens), and the process is handled at the local Transport and Communications office. You’ll need to provide various documents including your passport, medical certificates from an optometrist and a general practitioner, a certified translation of your current licence, and a document from the licence's issuing authority confirming its details and any pending penalties. The procedure typically takes a few weeks, and once approved, your original licence is surrendered in exchange for a Greek-issued EU-standard licence, valid throughout Europe.

2. Importing Your Car to Greece

You can import your own car to Greece, though the process and costs vary depending on where it’s coming from.

• From within the EU, the process is much smoother — vehicles are already compliant with EU emission and safety standards.

• From the US or other non-EU countries, importing can be more complex and costly. Greek authorities will need to verify that the car meets European emission standards, which can lead to additional inspection fees and taxes.

• To qualify for certain tax exemptions, you must usually have owned and used the car for at least six months before importing it.

• For those moving from the Americas and some other regions, incentives for purchasing energy-efficient vehicles are available, which can make buying new locally a better deal than importing.

3. Driving in Greece: What to Expect

• Drive on the right-hand side of the road (the steering wheel is on the left).

• Road network quality: Highways and main roads are generally in good condition, but rural and island routes can be narrow or winding.

• Traffic: Expect congestion in Athens and Thessaloniki, particularly during rush hours.

• Navigation tip: Don’t rely solely on Google Maps in remote areas — locals will often point you to faster or safer routes.

• Road signs are typically in both Greek and English, making it easier for foreigners to navigate.

4. Renting a Car

Renting a car in Greece is straightforward and relatively affordable.

• Most rental cars are manual (stick shift), though automatics are available at a higher price.

• You’ll need a valid driver’s license and a credit card.

• Insurance is usually included but check for deductibles and coverage for island ferries if you plan to travel between islands.

5. Owning a Car in Greece

To buy or register a car, you’ll need a residence permit and a Greek tax number (AFM).

Key considerations:

• Insurance: Generally cheaper than in the US or UK, but coverage levels vary.

• Road tax: Annual and based on engine size and emissions — electric vehicles benefit from lower or zero tax.

• Fuel: Petrol is more expensive than in many countries, but given shorter distances and lower insurance costs often make driving surprisingly affordable — part of the overall cost of living advantages in Greece.

While public transport (especially KTEL buses) connects major cities, owning or renting a car gives much greater flexibility, particularly in rural or island areas.

In urban settings, taxis are plentiful and inexpensive, making them a convenient alternative for short trips.

6. Final Thoughts

Driving in Greece can be a joy — scenic coastal roads, short travel distances, and the freedom to explore beyond tourist routes. With the right paperwork and planning, it’s an easy and often cost-effective part of your new life abroad.

If you’re planning your move, remember that transport is just one of many aspects to prepare — from healthcare to taxes and visas.

Driving is just one practical aspect of your move — from healthcare to housing, there’s a lot to plan when retiring in Greece. 

If you’d like help understanding the full picture, reach out to our team to plan your move step by step.

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