Old Type Driver's Licenses Are No Longer Valid! Be Careful If You Are Going to Rent a Car!

As we reach 2025, many traffic applications have been updated, and one of the most talked-about issues has been the expiration of the validity period for old-style driver's licenses. This transition, which has been granted a timeframe since January 1, 2016, is now complete. As of July 31, 2025, old-style driver's licenses have become invalid. So, what does this mean? How will it affect you when renting a car or driving in traffic? Let's look at the details together.

Driving with Old Driver's Licenses is Illegal

According to information from the General Directorate of Security, it is now illegal to drive with old-style driver's licenses. Drivers who do not comply with this rule are penalized according to Article 39/3-a of the Highway Traffic Law.

According to this article:

• Drivers operating a vehicle with an expired license will be subject to an administrative fine.
• The vehicle will be impounded and seized.
• The vehicle will only be handed over to the registered owner.

These sanctions are of great importance not only to individual vehicle owners but also to those who use car rental services.

Rent A Car Companies: What Are They Doing?

Companies operating in the car rental sector cannot rent vehicles to individuals whose driver's licenses are not valid. As RentiCar, we fully comply with this regulation. Therefore, unfortunately, we cannot hand over vehicles to customers who apply with an expired license.

Here are some of the frequently asked questions to our customer service recently:

• "Has the deadline been extended?"
• "I have a new driver's license appointment, can I rent a car with my old one?"
• "I will only use it within the city, not outside, will it be a problem?"

Currently, there is no official announcement regarding an extension of the deadline. Therefore, if you have an old-style driver's license, it is not possible to rent a car. You may also face penalties during traffic checks.

What Are the Advantages of the New Type of Driver's License?

New generation driver's licenses are not only a legal requirement but also offer many advantages:

• They have international validity.
• Thanks to their chip-based and secure infrastructure, they are more resistant to forgery.
• They are more durable and long-lasting.
• They allow you to rent and drive vehicles abroad.
• They provide quick verification during traffic checks.

How Can You Renew Your Driver's License?

Renewing your driver's license is much easier than you think. Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Make an appointment at https://randevu.nvi.gov.tr/ or by calling 199.
2. On the day of your appointment, go to the Population Directorate with your old driver's license, ID, 1 biometric photograph, health report, and payment receipts.
3. After your application, your driver's license is usually delivered to your address within a week.

RentiCar's Recommendation:

If you are planning a trip within or outside the city by renting a car, be sure to ensure that your driver's license is valid. As RentiCar, we want to offer you a fast, safe, and legally compliant rental experience. Therefore, we recommend that you do not delay your driver's license renewal process to avoid any inconvenience.

As of July 31, 2025, old-style driver's licenses have become invalid. Get your new-style driver's license without delay to avoid penalties in traffic and to ensure your car rental process goes smoothly. As RentiCar, we are always here for you. With your updated documents, you can easily rent your car and embark on an enjoyable journey.