Changes in Agricultural Machinery Management Rules During Wartime: Essential Updates for Ukrainian Drivers and Farmers
Since August 2023, Ukraine has implemented new legal regulations aimed at simplifying access to controlling agricultural machinery during the period of martial law.
These changes are intended to ensure uninterrupted operation of the agricultural sector and related industries such as construction and other economic activities, even amid wartime challenges.
According to the State Food and Consumer Service, drivers holding national driver’s licenses of categories C1, C, D1, or D, with at least three years of experience since issuance, can now operate certain types of machinery without additional specialized training or testing.Under the new rules, during the period of martial law and for 90 days following its termination or cancellation, the requirement to obtain a tractor-driver’s license for operating tractors and self-propelled machines has been eliminated.
This measure is especially relevant for agricultural and construction workers, who can operate equipment solely outside public roads and transport routes.It is important to highlight that these measures are designed to accelerate procedural processes and facilitate machinery use in difficult times.
However, there are nuances to consider, such as cases where driver’s licenses issued before 2013 may not be reflected in electronic registries.
Therefore, knowing how to correctly exchange your driver’s license is crucial to avoid administrative issues and ensure legality when operating machinery during wartime.