The Ukrainian government has removed the three-year experience requirement for certain drivers seeking to operate agricultural machinery. This decision, announced by Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko on April 6, aims to address workforce shortages in the agricultural sector due to the ongoing military conflict.
According to Svyrydenko, many tractor operators are currently serving in the armed forces, which has led to a significant deficit of skilled labor in agriculture. The new regulations allow drivers with licenses for trucks, buses, and minibuses (categories C1, C, D1, D) to operate specific types of agricultural machinery without needing a separate tractor operator’s license.
These vehicles include those classified under categories A1, A2, B1, B2, and B3, which encompass tractors and self-propelled harvesting machines for grains, corn, root vegetables, potatoes, fruits, and berries, among others. Svyrydenko emphasized that this regulatory change is intended to attract additional workers, particularly during peak agricultural periods such as planting and harvesting seasons.
The Ministry of Economy clarified that this provision will remain in effect only during the state of martial law and for an additional 90 days following its conclusion. Furthermore, the new rules do not permit operation on public roads.
On April 4, the government also introduced measures for military risk insurance and grants aimed at revitalizing the agricultural sector.
The Ukrainian government has relaxed licensing requirements for agricultural vehicle operators to mitigate labor shortages caused by military service. This measure is temporary and will only be in effect during martial law and for 90 days thereafter.