How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving licence is a valuable asset, not only due to its high standards and standards, but also because its recognition is widespread across Europe. It is therefore not uncommon for expats to want to exchange their current license to one from a German one when their EU / EEA driving license expires.
What are the prerequisites for the application?
You must meet several prerequisites before you can get a German license. These include the type of vehicle you wish to drive, and your age. You must be 18 years old in order to obtain a class B driver's license that is required for the majority of passenger vehicles as well as small commercial vehicles. You can also get an E or class C license if you plan to drive heavy vehicles such as buses and trucks, or a class T license for agricultural or forestry tractor. In certain instances you will require passing a written or oral test before being allowed to take a practical test.
Some countries permit their citizens to exchange their licenses for one that is a German one without having to pass a test. This includes citizens of countries that are part of the European Union or the European Economic Area as and those from Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Hong Kong, San Marino, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Switzerland, France and the U.S.A (certain states), and Singapore.
If you're not from one of these countries, you will have to pass a written and practical test prior to getting an German driver's license. In some cases, you may also need to pass a medical examination and a vision test.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact process varies however, generally, you'll need to bring a letter from your employer or the city stating that you've relocated to Germany, proof of insurance, and a foreign license. You may need to include an image.
The cost of the test dependent on where you reside in Germany however, it's generally less than EUR100. Once you've passed both the practical and written tests, your German driving license will be available for pick-up within a few weeks.
It's important to understand the requirements for the German license as a lot of expats require one to legally drive in Germany. Public transport can be a challenge and inconvenient for those living in rural areas, particularly in the winter months, so having a vehicle is often necessary.
How do I get a German driving license?
You can convert a driver's license from an EU country or one recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to an German license without having to take any exams. This process can be completed by arranging an appointment with your local driver's licensing authority which is known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need your original license along with a form or identification, and a passport photo. In most cases, you will be able to obtain your German driving licence in 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 for a maximum of six month before getting the German license. To obtain this you must sign up for your address and be able to pass a German language test which can be completed in a local language center or a private language school.
It can take a while to get a German license however, it's essential to be safe to drive on the roads. It can also make renting a car much simpler, as certain rental companies might require an German license. Driving in Germany is a serious matter and must be handled accordingly.
It is recommended to enroll in driving classes and practice driving. This will help you become more comfortable when you take your test. Farschule123 lets you to search for driving schools by location and type of vehicle. deutscher führerschein kaufen driving schools also offer theory classes in a variety of languages.
Renewing your German driving license is a simple process. Schedule an appointment with your local driving licensing office at minimum four weeks before the expiration date of your license. You will need to bring your license, a recent passport photo and pay a small fee of approximately 24 euros. The new driver's license will be issued in four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
Although it is possible to obtain a driver's license in Germany without taking the theoretical or practical test due to a reciprocity agreement the majority of expats would be better off starting from the beginning. This involves going through an Fahrschule (driving school for drivers) and paying a substantial sum of money.
Driving schools are located across the country and offer a range of classes, from a basic car course to a bus, truck or passenger transport licence. You can also take classes in your native language. The cost can vary considerably, with some charging less than others. Asking around and checking online reviews is the best method to find the right driving school.
The process of converting an American driving license to one that is a German one could take anywhere between two and six months, based on the availability of the driving school and if you have an agreement of reciprocity. If you don't then you will need to translate your driver's licence into German and this can be done by a certified translator or a recognized automobile organization. You can also submit a registry extract from the KBA in the country of origin as proof of residence.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you will need to sit for a test. During the test the driving instructor sits in the passenger's seat as you drive your vehicle and you must answer questions. You will be issued your driving license within a few days after passing.
If you fail the exam and fail the practical exam, you must repeat the entire process with a different instructor and pay the corresponding fee. You must also demonstrate that you have completed the medical examination and, if necessary present a certificate of good eyesight.
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). You will need to provide an original driver's license translated and a medical certificate in this instance. You will also be required to submit a certified translation and photocard of your passport.
Can I exchange my driving license from another country to get one in Germany? German license?
If you are moving from a country or state that has a reciprocity agreement with Germany and Germany, the process of swapping your license for a German one is relatively easy. The agreement is in place with 27 states that include New York, California and other states. If you have an official driving license from one of these states, you don't have to pass a written or road test in Germany. You can get your complete German license. You'll need your current driver's license, proof of identity (usually an authentic passport or a national ID card) as well as a photograph that was taken recently. The requirements for each federal state (Lander) vary therefore it is advisable to confirm the requirements of your local authority for your driving license (Fuhrerscheinstelle), before booking an appointment.
You will only need to change your license within the first six month of your residency. If you do not do this, it will be considered a violation to your residency permit and the authorities may be able to take action against you. If you plan to use car-sharing services the majority of which require an European or German license and this is an additional reason to get this process going and start working towards getting your German license.
Those who move to Germany from outside the EU/EEA area can continue to use their driver's license for a period of up to 12 months after they register their address. However they must get it translated into German by a sworn translator, an internationally recognized automobile organization or a licensed translator. This is a vital step as a lot of insurance companies won't cover drivers who are not from the EU/EEA region without a 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)". You can do this on the internet, via phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need to bring your current license, an official translation of the license into German and your driver's record from your home country, and documents of identity. Additionally, you will need to pay a fee, that is about EUR35. This can be paid in cash or via bank transfer. You will receive a confirmation mail once you have provided all the required documents.