Do not lend a foreign-plated car in Türkiye based only on a family relationship or a written authorisation. A vehicle temporarily imported for private use has customs conditions that can limit who may drive it.
Check the driver's residence as well as the relationship
The Ministry of Trade says the vehicle may generally be used by the person who brought it and certain close family members, such as a spouse, parents or children, when those family members are resident abroad. People resident in Türkiye are not generally permitted to use the vehicle under the tourist-facility rules. The official guidance describes a narrow emergency exception, but it should not be treated as routine permission.
A power of attorney or a note from the owner does not automatically override customs eligibility. Read the Ministry's official guide on use by persons other than the rights holder and confirm the current rules for your vehicle category. Keep the importing person's documents and the family member's proof of residence available when travelling.
Make a written family plan
Before anyone else takes the wheel, record who is eligible, where the car may be used and who will keep the registration and insurance documents. If the vehicle is under a temporary-entry form or carnet rather than the ordinary tourist regime, ask customs or the guarantor organisation for the specific terms. The driver's Turkish licence status is a separate requirement.
Continue with the foreign-plated car guide and the article on insurance and accident preparation.
Continue this practical series with the previous guide and the next guide.
Rules and procedures may change. Confirm the requirements for your own case with the responsible authority or a qualified local professional before acting.
