If you want to drive a lorry or bus professionally in connection with North Macedonia, it helps to be clear about what “Code 95” means. Code 95 is the European Union’s professional-driver qualification under Directive 2003/59/EC, and North Macedonia is outside the EU. North Macedonia operates its own professional-driver Certificate of Professional Competence (sertifikat za profesionalna kompetentnost (СПК)), which is required for professional and especially international transport and is increasingly aligned with EU standards — but a national certificate is not the same as an EU Code 95.

This guide explains the position honestly: how the qualification works in North Macedonia, and what drivers who want to work in the EU actually need.

The National Qualification in North Macedonia

Professional drivers in North Macedonia obtain the national Certificate of Professional Competence through accredited training and examination, administered by the Ministry of Transport and Communications, with periodic refresher training to keep it valid. If you drive international routes into the EU, you must meet the relevant qualification and documentation requirements for that work.

What You Need to Work in the EU

An EU employer, or driving under EU rules, generally requires an EU Code 95. A qualification from North Macedonia is not automatically recognised in the EU, so in practice drivers planning to work in the EU obtain Code 95 in the EU/EEA country where they will be based, usually through the accelerated initial qualification, after first securing the right to work and exchanging their licence where required.

Documents and Medical Requirements

For either route, expect to provide a valid driving licence in the relevant category, proof of identity, a medical certificate confirming fitness to drive professionally, evidence of training, and the applicable fees. Most drivers from the region who work in the EU qualify in the EU country where they will be based.

Periodic Training and Renewal

Both the national scheme and EU Code 95 rely on periodic refresher training (35 hours every five years under the EU system) to keep the qualification valid. Plan renewals in good time, because driving professionally without a valid qualification is not permitted.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming a North Macedonia certificate is automatically valid for EU work — usually it is not.
• Leaving renewal too late.
• Overlooking the right-to-work requirement for the EU.
• Using a training centre that is not properly accredited.

Useful Official Sources

• The Ministry of Transport and Communications for the national qualification.
• The EU country where you intend to work, for Code 95.
• EU Directive 2003/59/EC for the EU framework.
• Always confirm the latest rules before you enrol.

Quick Summary: Code 95 and North Macedonia

1. North Macedonia has its own professional driver certificate, not the EU Code 95.
2. For EU work, you generally need an EU Code 95.
3. Most EU-bound drivers obtain Code 95 in the EU country where they will work.
4. Keep your medical and qualifications current.
5. Confirm the current rules with the relevant authority.