Motor Vehicles

Thinking About Shipping Your Privately Owned Vehicle?

First, ensure you are authorized to ship a vehicle and that it is listed on your orders. Contact your local Traffic Management Office for guidance.

Ensure you and eligible family members have valid U.S. state driver’s licenses. Your current driver's license will allow you to drive in the country, as long as you get a translated version through the NATO Pass and ID Office.

If you do decide to ship your POV, plan for approximately $300–$500 out-of-pocket registration-related costs, including applicable notary, licensing, inspection and administrative fees. Costs vary and might not include compulsory vehicle insurance. This is if you plan on registering your POV with the assistance of our legal team.

• Compulsory vehicle insurance (Zorunlu Trafik Sigortası) — Mandatory: Required to register and operate a vehicle in Türkiye. It covers your legal liability for injury and property damage to other people or vehicles, up to set limits. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle.
• Private auto insurance (Kasko) — Optional: Comprehensive coverage for your own POV. Coverage may include collision damage, theft, fire, and other risks, depending on the policy. Contact your U.S.-based insurance company to determine whether your policy provides coverage in Türkiye. If it does not, recommend researching for local insurance companies that can provide coverage for your POV.
• Other option: Local brokers can assist with vehicle registration. This may make the process easier, but broker services can be expensive with some current members paying between $1,000–$1,200. Obtain a current quote before using a broker.

Disclaimer: The information above is based on vehicle-registration costs reported by current service members and is provided for planning purposes only. We cannot recommend, endorse or market specific local insurance providers, brokers, or other service providers. Members are responsible for researching and selecting services that meet their individual needs. Reach out to your sponsor for more specific information.

Getting Around

Driving in Türkiye gives you the freedom to go where you want when you want, and since there is a lot to see and do, you'll want to get around as much as possible.

If you're an experienced, confident driver, drive on the right-hand side of the road and are willing to adapt to a foreign country's driving habits, then you'll probably enjoy the freedom of driving in Türkiye. If you're used to driving in cities like New York, London or anywhere in Italy, driving in Türkiye will be easy for you.

Although the road conditions have improved dramatically in recent years, never let your guard down. The government is struggling to deal with what is known locally as the Traffic Monster (Trafik Canavari); signs, television programs, police checkpoints and public service bulletins seek to make Turkey's roads safer. Progress is being made, but it's going to take many years of education.

Some of the behaviors that you may witness from Turkish drivers:

1. Right-hand turns from the left lane and left-hand turns from the right lane
2. Minibuses stopping without warning to pick up passengers
3. Vehicles backing up on off-ramps
4. Impatient drivers driving the wrong way in your lane because they didn't want to sit in traffic
5. Drivers that pass you while you're in the process of passing someone else on a two-lane highway.

Türkiye's motor vehicle accident rate is high, but there are things you can do to avoid accidents and have a safe trip:

• Drive defensively.
• Expect the unexpected.
• Leave your road rage at home.
• Avoid driving at night.
• Get used to blowing your horn to announce your presence.
• Never get overconfident.
• Remember that all accidents must be reported to the police.

Foreigners are rarely stopped by the police at the frequent checkpoints, but, if you are, you'll be required to show your driver's license and proof of ownership (or car-rental papers) and may be given an on-the-spot fine for not wearing a seatbelt or for speeding.

Currently, there is shuttle bus service, information about which will be provided to you by your sponsor and at Newcomer's Orientation. However, the shuttle service can be cut down at any time and is limited to where they pick up and drop off. You may consider driving to work depending on where you choose to live. Taxis are inexpensive, and public bus service is robust but crowded.

Major drawbacks to using your own vehicle include:

1. Shipping a vehicle can take awhile, an estimated two to five months.
2. You can buy a vehicle here. Ensure you have funds to cover all expenses, i.e., registration fee, insurance fee and cost to buy the vehicle.
3. Parking is challenging in Izmir. Most people park on the street or lease parking space in a parking garage. When looking for a rental property ensure they have parking available for your vehicle.

Consider shipping a less expensive vehicle that will allow you to maintain a low profile and not one that will mark you as a foreigner.

Despite the disadvantages, you will benefit from having your vehicle in Izmir, and we encourage you to consider shipping your vehicle.

Accidents

If involved in an accident, you must immediately notify the Security Forces and the Turkish National Police. Do not move the car until directed by responding police agencies. It is recommended you keep Security Forces and Turkish translator telephone numbers, as well as a calling card for phone calls in the glove compartment of your car or a cell phone with you. Important contact information will be provided to you at Newcomer's Orientation with Turkish translation.

Avoiding Traffic Tickets

Follow the rules of the road; get familiar with the local diving laws. Be prepared to pay any outstanding traffic tickets upon de-registering for unpaid traffic tickets.

Vandalism

When you are shipping your vehicle, keep it in mind that vandalism and theft may occur within Izmir because the parking space is not sufficient. You might need to pay for a parking lot monthly to secure your vehicle. Again, it's best to find a rental property that has dedicated parking for your vehicle.

Safety Tips on Driving

Turkish law requires vehicles to be equipped with the following safety equipment:

• First aid kit
• Reflective triangles (2)
• Flashlight
• Fire extinguisher
• Spare tire

Hands-Free Devices

Hands-free devices must be used while operating a motor vehicle on ALL military installations worldwide.

Turkish License Plates

Izmir AS has started using Broker System, as on other bases in Türkiye. This can be costly; if you plan on working with a broker to register your car, expect to pay over $1,000 in fees. Another option is that our Legal team can assist with the registration process to get your license plates.

Vehicle Checks

All motorized vehicles are required to pass initial Turkish safety inspection before operation on Turkish highways and then every two years; four-wheel drives/trucks, vans and motorcycles must be inspected every year. You can call Pass & ID and ask for the current fees for the inspection and emission tests.

Your vehicle must meet the specifications of the Turkish Safety Inspection in order to be registered properly. The safety standards include, but are not limited to the following:

• Emissions test
• Verification of the engine and VIN numbers of the car
• Examination of window tint
  • Tiint not manufactured into the vehicles' glass is not acceptable; removal of the tint may be required to pass the safety inspection.
  • If your vehicle's tint must be removed, we recommend taking it off prior to shipment.
• If the vehicle is a pick-up or van, mud flaps are required for rear tires only. If your vehicle requires the mud flaps, they can be installed here for a nominal fee.

Vehicles will be checked by Turkish customs officials. They will check the vehicle's surface, windows, wipers, headlights, brake/lights, license plate/lamp and muffler. All vehicle documents must be in order when picking up the vehicle; i.e., current insurance, color and other information.

Motorcycle Regulations

All military personnel wishing to register a motorcycle for use in Izmir must have the proper motorcycle operators' endorsement and/or certification reflecting successful completion of an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation, or MSF, rider's course. These courses are currently not available in Türkiye (except Incirlik), so you should complete the course prior to PCS. There are no exceptions to this requirement.

This requirement does not apply to civilian personnel, unless they operate a motorcycle for official government business. MSF courses are usually available free of charge at your present base; contact your local AF Safety office for details. The MSF card needs to be updated every three years.

Driver's License

If you are planning to drive in Türkiye, you will need a current state driver's license. Please ensure that your driver's license will not expire during your tour. The information is quoted for your interest and necessary action. According to Turkish Traffic Law #2918 Article 98, any person operating a motor vehicle with an expired license will have their driving privileges indefinitely revoked. The Turkish Traffic Police will not recognize stateside license extensions or stateside military clauses; they will only recognize the expiration date on the license.

International Permit

If you plan on traveling and going to other countries while in Türkiye, it may be easier to obtain an International Driving Permit in the U.S. at any AAA office before departing. A current state driver's license, $10 application fee and two passport photos are required. Application by mail may take from four to six weeks.

If coming from Europe, please note that a USAEUR driver's license is not recognized as a "stateside" driver's license and, therefore, is, not acceptable when applying for the USAFE Form 181, Vehicle Operators Permit for Turkey. Personnel driving in from Europe are advised to obtain the International Driver's permit prior to departing Europe, and if they do not have a stateside license to contact their home state motor vehicle agency for re-issue. If stopped by Turkish authorities, and you are not properly licensed, you could be prosecution under Turkish law.

Turkish Traffic Insurance

Insurance is required on all vehicles operated in Türkiye. Compulsory Turkish traffic insurance must be underwritten and issued by an authorized Turkish insurance company. Coverage cost is extremely low. Stateside insurance coverage should be cancelled the date the vehicle is turned into the port for shipment overseas. Full coverage insurance is also available from several companies. If you prefer to have GEICO or USAA, make certain the policy and coverage will be accepted in Türkiye. If they do not, ask if they have affiliates in Türkiye for you to contact.

The U.S. government assumes responsibility for insurance coverage while the vehicles is in transit and waiting for pick-up.

Local Motor Vehicle Regulations

Privately Owned Vehicles, or POVs

Note: Personnel assigned to any U.S. Forces activity in Izmir, Türkiye (including NATO), regardless of tour length, are authorized shipment of a POV. Accordingly, they are not authorized POV storage during their tour.

Rules for POVs (includes data on prohibited vehicles, colors, etc.)

1. Single unaccompanied members assigned to Türkiye under NATO-SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement) are only authorized to have one POV on their Turkish Customs records (USAFE Form 554-NATO Beyanname) for the duration of their tours in Turkey. Motorcycles and mopeds are considered as a vehicle for Turkish Customs, but those can be shipped as HHG.
   1. According to Turkish Customs rules of the unity of family, joint spouse assignments to Türkiye are considered one family unit and each family unit is only allowed a maximum of two vehicles on their Turkish Customs records (USAFE Form 554-NATO Beyanname).
   2. Joint spouses may have the vehicles put on their separate Turkish Customs records (USAFE Form 554-NATO Beyanname) and use their separate entitlements to ship their vehicles in and out of Türkiye at government expense.
   3. Except for motorcycles/mopeds shipped as HHG, second POV shipments of all other accompanied members are not entitled at government expense.
   4. Individuals who ship second vehicles to/from Türkiye are required to comply with all Turkish Customs requirements concerning shipment of a POV at their own expense (such as hiring a commercial customs representative, paying transit, storage and port fees, etc.). Any additional POVs, including motorcycles and four-wheelers, will have to be reshipped to the place of origin at the members expense.
2. Selling POVs in Türkiye:
   1. Turkish Customs ?Beyanname? laws state the Turkish government retains the right to approve or disapprove the sale and/or transfer of POVs.
   2. Members anticipating doing so while assigned to Turkey are required to submit a request to the Turkish Ministry of Customs. The decision process takes approximately six to eight weeks at a minimum. For this reason, members must start the process a minimum of three months prior to their departure, otherwise, the member can anticipate delays when clearing “Beyanname.”
3. Members shipping a vehicle that does not meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, and the Department of Transportation, or DOT, standards in addition to the above requirements are informed of the following options to consider when members are unable to sell and/or transfer their vehicles
   1. Dispose of their vehicle by obtaining a customs broker whose fees can be very expensive, or
   2. Ship the vehicle back to CONUS and pay the cost of conforming the vehicle back to U.S. EPA/DOT standards, which is also very expensive.

Motor Cycles/Mopeds

Motorcycles and mopeds are considered POVs but may be shipped in HHGs. NOTE: Only one POV for each military member and DOW civilian member is authorized duty free.

• Motorcycle/moped safety requirements:
  • Mirrors: At least one mirror is mandatory.
  • Brakes: They must work.
  • Lights: Any installed light system must work.
• Motorcycles: Headlight, brake light and license plate light are required.
• Mopeds: Small (under 50 cc) mopeds are only required to meet bicycle standards (headlight and rear reflector); larger mopeds must meet motorcycle standards.
  • Body: Free of rust, dents, scratches, etc.
  • Windshield: Not required, but, if installed, it must be free of cracks, etc.
  • Horn: It must work.
  • Safety Items: Motorcycles require first aid kit. Mopeds have no requirements.
  • Motor and chassis number: Same as automobiles.
  • Motorcyclist's drivers license and safety foundation course (specialty/state equivalent) are required.

Gasoline/Catalytic Converters 

Removal of catalytic converters is no longer recommended since unleaded gas is available throughout Türkiye.

Insurance and Safety Requirements

POV inspection requirements: A safety inspection is part of the initial vehicle registration process in Turkey. Re-inspections are conducted every two years for automobiles and every year for vans and trucks. If any deficiencies are noted during the initial inspection, inspection will start all over. In addition to automobile requirements, trucks and vans must have mud-flaps on both rear wheels.

• Exterior: Must be free of rust, holes, dents and scratches, and must be in good condition and clean.
• Windshield: Free of cracks, holes, etc.
• Lights:
  • Headlights must be identical in size and color. High beams must be capable of illuminating a distance of 20 meters. Low beams must be in working condition.
  • Safety lights must be in working order.
  • Turn indicators, parking lights, brake lights, and a license plate light are required.
• Exhaust system:
  • The muffler must be free of holes and must be noiseless.
  • The exhaust pipe should be pointing back or to the left side, not the right side (not bent down or up), and must extend to the edge of the rear bumper.
• Trailer hitch: Must be removed from the vehicle, unless you actually have trailer in Turkey, then you must register the trailer at the same time you register the vehicle.
• Horn: A horn is required; however, air horns, musical horns and excessively loud horns are prohibited.
• Wheel alignment: No more than five-percent deviation to left or right.
• Brakes:
  • Foot brakes: The brakes on all wheels must engage when the brake pedal is applied.
  • Hand brakes: Must be strong enough to hold car in place when low gear is engaged and gas is lightly applied.
• Safety items required at inspection point:
  • Two warning reflectors
  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight
  • Towing wire
  • Snow chains for tires (unavailability acceptable at non-snow areas)
  • Spare tire
  • Extra bulbs for headlight, parking, signal and stop lights
  • Fire extinguisher
• Side and rearview windows: Must be free of cracks and in working condition. All windows glass must be transparent from inside and outside.
• Windshield wipers: Must work.
• Doors: Must work.
• Motor and chassis identification numbers:
  • Must have both numbers on vehicle, number must be readable and vehicle owner must know where numbers are to show the inspectors at the inspection station.
  • Indication of location of motor number on engine block on the DD 788 Form is advised.
  • Non-availability of motor number on DD 788 may delay customs clearance at the entry ports.
• Windows: Windows should not be filmed. Factory tint (smoke or light tone) is permitted.

Turkish laws regulate motor vehicle operation, and local requirements may vary. Be familiar with local rules for:

• Seat belt use
• Child safety seats
• Motorcycle operation
• The use of cellphones and other digital devices while driving

Learn more about motor vehicle laws in Türkiye at the https://en.guvenlitrafik.gov.tr/traffic-enforcement-activities page.

Other Resources

Travel.State.Gov — Review the latest State Department Travel Advisory about Türkiye. You can plan for safe travel by following the entry and exit requirements, reviewing local laws, and other travel guidance from the U.S. embassy and its consulates.

Turkiye Road Signs Familiarization — Disclaimer: This third-party resource is provided for general familiarization with Turkish road signs only. It is not an official Government of Türkiye source and should not be relied upon as a complete or current statement of traffic laws or regulations. Drivers are responsible for complying with all applicable local laws, posted signs and installation-specific requirements.