How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a crucial and valuable asset, not only due to its strict standards but also because it is recognized throughout Europe. Expats often want to change their driving license from the EU/EEA to one with a German license after it expires.
What are the requirements for the application?
There are many requirements to purchasing a German driving license, which includes the kind of vehicle you wish to drive as well as your age. You must be at least 18 years old in order to obtain an official driver's license of class B which is required for the majority of passenger vehicles as well as small commercial vehicles. You can also obtain an E or class C license if you wish to drive heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses, or a class T license for agricultural or forestry tractors. You may be required to pass an written or oral test in certain cases before you are able to take the practical exam.
Some countries permit their citizens to swap their licenses for licenses that are a German one without the requirement of passing an examination. This applies to citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area and certain states in the U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand. South Korea, Japan.
You will need to pass a written test and a practical test if not from one of these countries. In some cases you may also have to pass a medical exam and a vision test.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The process for applying varies in each case, but you'll need a letter from your employer or the city stating that you have relocated to Germany and a proof of insurance, as well as your foreign license. You may be required to submit a photograph.
The cost of the driving test is dependent on the location you reside in Germany. However it's usually less than EUR100. After you've passed the practical and written tests then your German driving license will be available for pickup within a few weeks.
fuehrerscheinn.com to understand the requirements for a German license as a lot of expats will require one to legally drive in the country. Public transportation can be a hassle and unreliable for those who live in rural areas, particularly during bad weather, so having a car is often essential.
How do I get an German driver's license?
If you hold a driver's license from another country within the European Union (EU) or from a country recognized by Germany as having reciprocity either in full or in part the possibility of converting your licence to a German one without taking any tests. This process can be accomplished by making an appointment with your local driver's licensing authority, called the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need the original license, a form or identification, and a passport photo. In most cases the German licence will be available to pick up in about four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK or Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, Switzerland, Andorra or Andorra you are able to use it up to six months prior to obtaining an German licence. In order to do so, you will need to identify your residence address and complete the German language test which is available at a private school or at the local language center.
Obtaining a German driving license can take some time, but it is an essential step to be safe to drive on the road. It also makes renting a car a lot easier because some rental companies require an German driving license. Driving in Germany is a serious issue and should be treated accordingly.
It is suggested to take driving classes and get a driving lesson. This will help you become more confident when you take your test. The website Farschule123 allows you to find driving schools by location and vehicle type. A lot of driving schools offer classes in various languages.
Renewing your German driving license is simple. Simply schedule an appointment with your local licensing authority at least four weeks prior to when your licence expires. You'll be required to bring your driving licence along with a passport photo that you took recently and pay a small amount of 24 euros. Then, your new driving licence will be ready to pick up within four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
It is possible to obtain a driver's license in Germany without taking the theoretical or practical test due to a reciprocity agreement most expats are better off beginning from scratch. This requires going through a driving school and spending a significant amount of money.
There are driving schools across the country. They provide a broad variety of courses, from a basic instruction in cars to a truck or bus license. They will also be able to offer you a theory course in your native language. The price can be a bit different in some places, with some charging less than others. Checking online and asking around reviews is the best way to find the most suitable driving school.
The process of changing an American driving license to one that is a German one could take anywhere from two to six months, depending on the availability of the driving school and if you have an agreement for reciprocity. If you do not then you will need to translate your driver's licence into German, which can be done by a certified translator or an approved automobile organization. Alternatively, you can submit a registry extract from the KBA in your country of origin to prove of residence.
You'll have to take a practical test once you have all of the required documents. During this exam, the instructor will sit in the seat of the passenger and you will drive the car while being asked questions. If you pass, you will be able to get your driving licence a few weeks later.
If you fail the practical test, you will need to repeat the process with a different instructor and pay a fee. In addition, you'll have to prove you have passed a medical exam and, if needed, show a certificate of good eye sight.
You can also obtain a German driving license after a period of six months by submitting an application to your local driving licence authority (Fahrerlaubnisbehorde). In this case you'll need an original drivers' license and medical certificates. You will also need to submit a certified translation your passport along with photo identification.
Can I exchange my foreign license for a German one?
If you're moving from a country or state with a reciprocity agreement with Germany it's relatively simple to exchange your license to one from Germany. Twenty-seven states, including New York and California, have this agreement. This means that if you show your driver's license from these states, you will not be required to pass the written or road test in Germany, which will allow you to obtain a complete German driver's license. You will need to show your current driver's license, proof of identity (usually an authentic passport or national ID card) as well as a photograph taken recently. The exact requirements vary between the states that are federal (Lander) and so it's best to check with the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before making an appointment.
You only have to exchange your license for one of a German one within the first six months of residency. If you don't, it could be considered a violation to your residency permit. The authorities could be able to take action against you. If you are planning on using car-sharing services, the majority of which require the use of a European or German license This is a further reason to get the process started and work towards getting your German license.
Anyone who moves to Germany from outside the EU/EEA can keep their driver's license for a period of up to 12 months after they register their address. However, they must have it translated by a certified translation, a recognized internationally automotive organization or a certified interpreter. This is an essential step, as many insurance companies won't insure drivers who are not from the EU/EEA without translation.
You will need to visit the road traffic department (Strassenverkehrsamt) or driving licensing office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) in your city and make an appointment for a "Umstellung eines Fuhrersscheines (Non-EU/Drittstaaten)". This can be done online, by phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need your current license, the German translation of your license, your driving record from your country of origin, as well as identification proof. Additionally, you will be required to pay a fee of approximately EUR35 that you can pay in cash or with the transfer of funds from a bank. Once you have all of the required documents, you will receive confirmation via mail that your application has been submitted (Bescheinigung). (Bescheinigung).