C+E Truck Driver Jobs in Latvia - Salary Guide, Visa & Work Permit Process

Latvia has emerged as a pivotal logistics hub in Northern Europe, connecting Scandinavia, the Baltic States, and Central Europe. With road transport at the heart of its economy, the country is facing a shortage of professional C+E truck drivers.

For non-EU drivers, this shortage presents a real opportunity to work legally in Europe. Employers in Latvia are actively hiring foreign drivers, offering competitive salaries, work permit sponsorship, and support with training such as Code 95.

This guide explains how to get C+E truck driver jobs in Latvia, including salary expectations, visa and work permit requirements, license conversion, and the complete step-by-step process.

Why Latvia Needs Foreign Truck Drivers

• Latvia's logistics sector is experiencing rapid expansion.
• Local and EU drivers are not enough to meet demand.
• Employers rely on non-EU drivers to fill vacancies.
• Truck drivers are classified as essential workers in Latvia.
• The government has streamlined the process for hiring foreign drivers.

Salary for C+E Truck Drivers in Latvia

Latvia offers attractive pay compared to many non-EU countries. Salaries vary based on experience, route type, and employer.

Route / Driver Level	Monthly Salary (€)	Details
Domestic routes	€1,100 – €1,400	Short trips within Latvia
National routes	€1,500 – €1,800	Medium routes inside Latvia
International EU routes	€1,900 – €2,300	Long-haul trips with daily allowances
Senior/experienced	€2,400+	Higher mileage, bonuses, special cargo

 International long-haul drivers typically earn the most, often with additional benefits such as food allowances.

Requirements for Truck Driver Jobs in Latvia

To qualify for a C+E truck driver job in Latvia, you need:

• Category C+E driving license.
• Driver card (digital tachograph).
• Code 95 certificate (CPC) – mandatory in the EU.
• Medical fitness certificate.
• At least 6–12 months of driving experience.

Converting a Non-EU Driving License in Latvia

Non-EU drivers must usually exchange their license for a Latvian or EU license.

Steps:

1. Translate your license into Latvian.
2. Apply to the Latvian Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD).
3. Provide a passport, a medical certificate, and proof of residence.
4. Pass a theory or practical exam if required.
5. Receive your Latvian/EU driving license.
6. Apply for a driver card to operate tachographs.

Code 95 Training in Latvia

Code 95 is a legal requirement for professional drivers across the EU.

• Duration: 140–280 hours for new drivers.
• Renewal: Every 5 years, 35 hours of refresher training are required.
• Cost: €900–€1,400, sometimes covered by employers.
• Outcome: Once added to your license, you can work as a truck driver across Europe.

Step-by-Step Process for Non-EU Truck Drivers

Step 1 – Prepare Your Documents

Collect passport, CE license, police clearance, medical certificate, driver's card, and CV.

Step 2 – Secure a Job Offer

Apply with Latvian logistics companies or through a trusted recruitment agency such as AtoZ Serwis Plus.

Step 3 – Employer Applies for a Work Permit

The employer applies to the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA).
Processing time: 6–8 weeks.

Step 4 – Apply for a Long-Stay Visa (D Visa)

Once your work permit is approved, apply at the Latvian embassy.
Documents required: passport, work permit, employment contract, health insurance, and proof of accommodation.

Step 5 – Travel to Latvia

Employers often help with travel and temporary housing.

Step 6 – Convert Your License & Complete Code 95

Exchange your non-EU license and complete Code 95 training if necessary.

Step 7 – Apply for a Residence Permit

Submit documents to OCMA to get your Latvian residence card.

Step 8 – Start Working

Begin routes across Latvia and the EU, earning €1,500–€2,300 monthly plus allowances.

Working Conditions in Latvia

• Hours: 9 hours daily (10 hours twice per week), up to 48 hours per week.
• Accommodation: Many employers offer free or subsidised housing.
• Fleet: Modern EURO 6 trucks (Volvo, Scania, MAN, Mercedes).
• Language: Basic English or Russian is widely accepted; Latvian is helpful but not always required.

Benefits of Truck Driver Jobs in Latvia

• High demand and job security.
• Legal pathway to live and work in the EU.
• Employer sponsorship for work permits and visas.
• Competitive EU salaries and bonuses.
• Family reunification is possible after obtaining a residence permit.
• Access to jobs across Europe with Latvian Code 95 certification.

For Drivers – Start Your Career in Latvia

If you are a non-EU driver with a C+E license and want to work in Europe, AtoZ Serwis Plus can help you secure a legal and well-paid truck driving job in Latvia.

We offer:

• Verified job offers with trusted logistics companies.
• Complete assistance with work permits and visas.
• Guidance for Code 95 training and license conversion.
• Post-arrival support with housing and residence permits.

Apply Now – Driver Registration

For Employers – Hire Qualified Truck Drivers in Latvia

Are you a logistics company in Latvia facing a driver shortage? AtoZ Serwis Plus assists employers in recruiting and onboarding skilled non-EU drivers in a legally compliant manner.

We provide:

• Recruitment of vetted C+E truck drivers.
• Work permit and visa application support.
• License validation and Code 95 training arrangements.
• Compliance and onboarding support.

Register Your Company – Employer Registration

FAQs – C+E Truck Driver Jobs in Latvia

How much do C+E truck drivers earn in Latvia?
C+E truck drivers in Latvia earn between €1,500 and €2,300 per month, with international routes paying the most.

Do I need a work permit to work as a truck driver in Latvia?
Yes, all non-EU citizens require a work permit, sponsored by their employer, before applying for a visa.

Which visa is required for non-EU truck drivers in Latvia?
You need a Long-Stay Visa (D Visa), issued after your work permit is approved.

Can employers apply for my work permit on my behalf?
Yes, your employer is responsible for submitting your work permit application to the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA).

Do I need a C+E license to work as a truck driver in Latvia?
Yes, a valid C+E license is mandatory for articulated lorries and trailers.

What is Code 95, and why is it important?
Code 95 (Driver CPC) is a legal requirement for professional drivers in the EU. Without it, you cannot work as a truck driver.

Can I get Code 95 training in Latvia?
Yes, many certified Latvian driving schools offer Code 95 training, and some employers cover the associated costs.

Do I need to convert my non-EU license to a Latvian license?
Yes, most non-EU drivers must exchange their license for a Latvian/EU license to work long-term.

How long does the work permit process take?
Typically, the work permit process takes 6 to 8 weeks.

How long does the visa process take?
Visa processing usually takes 2–6 weeks, depending on the embassy.

Do employers provide accommodation for truck drivers?
Many companies offer free or subsidised housing for their drivers.

Is the Latvian language required for truck drivers to work in Latvia?
Not always. English or Russian is widely used in the logistics sector; however, learning some Latvian can be helpful for daily life.

What types of trucks will I drive in Latvia?
Most companies use modern Euro 6 trucks, such as those from Volvo, Scania, MAN, and Mercedes.

What are the working hours for truck drivers in Latvia?
Drivers usually work up to 9 hours daily (10 twice a week), with a weekly maximum of 48 hours.

Do I need health insurance to work in Latvia?
Yes, valid health insurance is required for visa approval and employment.

Can I bring my family to Latvia with me?
Yes, once you receive a residence permit, you can apply for family reunification.

Do I need prior European experience to get a job?
It's an advantage, but not always required. Many employers hire drivers with international experience outside the EU as long as they meet license and Code 95 requirements.

Do employers cover travel costs to Latvia?
Some companies cover flights and initial travel costs, while others may deduct these from future salaries.

Is truck driving in Latvia a long-term career option?
Yes, with high demand, legal pathways to residence, and competitive salaries, it offers stable long-term opportunities.

How can I apply for a truck driver job in Latvia?
You can apply directly through the Driver Registration form with AtoZ Serwis Plus, and our team will guide you through the process step by step.

Conclusion

Latvia is one of Europe's most promising destinations for Class 1 and Class 2 truck drivers. With strong demand, legal migration pathways, and competitive salaries, it offers excellent opportunities for non-EU drivers.

By following the step-by-step process – preparing documents, securing a job, obtaining a work permit and visa, converting your license, and completing Code 95 – you can start your career as a truck driver in Latvia.

With AtoZ Serwis Plus, drivers and employers both benefit from expert guidance, ensuring a smooth and legal process from start to finish.