Alright, so I wanted to see if I could get a North Korean driver’s license, you know, just for kicks. Turns out, it’s a bit more complicated than I thought. It’s not like ordering a pizza online, that’s for sure.
First, I started digging around on the internet. I found some info about driver’s licenses, but mostly for South Korea. Apparently, in South Korea, if you’re a healthy adult, you can get one. But North Korea? That’s a whole different story.
I stumbled upon a few websites and articles talking about the process. They said the Ministry of Public Security handles this stuff. From what I gathered, you can’t just order a North Korean driver’s license online, bummer! You actually gotta be there in person. I even read somewhere that they renew licenses every five years, sounds legit.

Next, I dove deeper, trying to find out the actual steps. It seems like you gotta go to one of their Driver’s License Examination Offices. I saw that you can apply on weekdays, from 9 AM to 5 PM. They make you take a written test on the same day you apply. Man, talk about efficiency, right?
Now, here’s where it gets tricky. I found conflicting info on whether foreigners can even get one. Some sources suggested that if you have a license from another country, you might just need a health check. But if your country isn’t on their “acknowledged” list, you gotta take a written exam too. I guess they have multiple-choice tests, sounds like fun.
I also checked if I could just swap my current license for a North Korean one, like some folks do in South Korea. I found some information about using an International Driving Permit (IDP) but it’s more relevant to the US, not really what I need here. Turns out that’s not really a thing in North Korea, so I had to scratch that idea off my list.
In the end, I realized getting a North Korean driver’s license is way more complicated. I can’t just get one online, and I definitely can’t just swap my current one. Seems like I’d have to jump through a lot of hoops, maybe even learn some Korean, and who knows what else. So, for now, I think I’ll just stick to driving in places where it’s a bit easier to get a license.
- Tried to order a North Korean driver’s license online.
- Found out it’s not possible.
- Discovered the process is handled by the Ministry of Public Security.
- Learned you have to apply in person and take a written test.
- Realized it’s complicated for foreigners.
- Decided it’s not worth the hassle for now.
Final Thoughts
Well, that was a bit of a letdown. I was hoping for a fun little online adventure, but it turns out getting a North Korean driver’s license is serious business. Maybe one day, when I have more time and patience, I’ll give it another shot. But for now, I’ll just stick to driving where my current license is valid.