Overview
The theory exam is the first of two exams for a driving licence in Kazakhstan. The rules are set by Annex 3 to Order No. 862 of the Minister of Internal Affairs (2 December 2014), "Rules for taking exams and issuing driving licences". The exams are taken at the state corporation "Government for Citizens" (Госкорпорация). This page is based on a copy of those rules in the Zakon.kz legal database, version current to 27 July 2026. The official Adilet legal portal and the government service portals could not be read here, so confirm details with the state corporation.
Who can apply
Candidates must have reached the age set by Article 74 of the Law on Road Traffic. The age is not repeated in the rules page that was read.
Candidates need a medical certificate for the right to drive (form 073/u) and a certificate of completing courses at a driver training organisation.
Foreign citizens, stateless people and others who do not speak Kazakh or Russian may take the theory exam with a qualified interpreter, who is recorded in the exam commission's report.
One national driving licence is allowed per person. It is issued for ten years.
Exam pattern
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Order | Theory exam first, then practical. Candidates who have not passed theory cannot take the practical exam |
| Theory test | 40 questions, each with several answers and one correct |
| Time | 40 minutes, timed by the computer |
| Language | Kazakh, Russian or English, at the candidate's choice |
| Format | Individual, on a computer workstation, in an exam room with biometric identity checks |
| Pass mark | At least 32 correct answers out of 40. An unanswered question counts as wrong |
| Several categories | One theory exam; the practical exam is taken separately for each category |
The rules say the practical exam is taken at an automated driving range of the state corporation. Penalty points for exercises are counted automatically.
Marking and results
Questions can be answered in any order.
The result and the answer sheet show on the screen after you finish or when time ends. The result also goes to your account on the digital government portal.
If you disagree with the result, you may appeal to the authorised body, using photo and video material.
A pass in the theory exam is valid for two years.
Retakes
A retake, theory or practical, is scheduled for the next working day after the previous exam.
After two failed theory attempts, each later attempt can be held no earlier than one month after.
After two failed practical attempts, the next practical exam is no earlier than one month later. After three failed practical attempts, the theory result is cancelled, and the candidate may take theory again after two months.
How to apply
Complete training and obtain the medical certificate.
Apply for the theory exam through the digital government portal or the bank digital systems named in the rules, at least one working day before the exam.
Choose the place, day and time from the free slots.
On the day, take your identity check, receive a workstation number and sit at it within 3 minutes. You are given a briefing first.
The rules page does not list exam fees, so check the state corporation or the portal.
Preparation tips
Practise 40-question sets with the 40-minute limit, aiming for at least 32 correct.
Do not leave questions blank, since a blank counts as wrong.
Choose your exam language when you book; English is available.
How many questions are in the Kazakhstan theory exam?
40 questions in 40 minutes, with one correct answer each. You need at least 32 correct.
How long is a theory pass valid?
Two years from the date you receive it.
Can I take the theory exam in English?
Yes. The rules allow Kazakh, Russian or English, at the candidate's choice.