How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a valuable asset, not just because it is a top-quality licence with high standards however, its recognition is widely spread across Europe. It is therefore not uncommon for expats to to exchange their current licence for one that is a German one once their EU / EEA driving license expires.
What are the requirements?
You must meet a number of conditions before you can purchase a German license. This includes the type of vehicle that you intend to drive and your age. You must be at least 18 years old to get a driver's license class B, which is required for all passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also get 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 oral or written test in certain cases before you are able to take the test.
Citizens of some countries can change their licenses to one of a German one without having to take an exam. This includes 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 you are not from one these countries. In some instances you may also have to pass a medical examination and vision test.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The process for applying varies however, generally, you'll need an official letter from your employer or city stating that you have relocated to Germany along with proof of insurance, and your foreign license. You may also need to submit a picture.
The cost of the driving test will vary based on the location you reside in Germany. However it's usually less than EUR100. After you have passed both the written test and practical test and have passed both tests, your German driving license should be ready to collect within a few days.
It is essential to understand the requirements for a German license because many expats will need to have one to legally drive in Germany. It can be difficult to take public transport in rural areas and in bad weather. Having a car will help.
How do I obtain a German driving license?
If you hold a driving license from another country in the European Union (EU) or from a country that is recognized by Germany as having reciprocity either in full or in part, you can convert your license to one that is a German one without taking any exams. You can do this by booking an appointment at the local driver's licensing authority which is also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need the original license along with a form or identification and a passport picture. In most cases, you will be able to pick up your German driving licence in four weeks.
If your licence was issued in the UK, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland or Andorra You can use it for up to six months prior to you can apply for the German license. To get this license you must first register your address and take a German language exam which can be completed at a local language center or a private language school.
The process of obtaining the German driving license can take a bit of time but it's an essential step to be competent to drive safely on the road. Additionally, it can make renting a car much easier, as some rental agencies may require an German license. Driving in Germany is a serious matter and should be treated accordingly.
It is recommended that you enroll in driving schools and get some practice behind the wheel in order to aid you in feeling more comfortable during your test. Farschule123 lets you to find driving schools by location and type of vehicle. Additionally numerous driving schools offer classes in several languages.
Renewal of your German driving licence is simple. Simply schedule an appointment with your local driving license authority at least four weeks before the expiration date of your license. You'll be required to bring your driving licence, a passport photo taken recently, and pay a modest amount of 24 euros. The new driver's license will be in place within four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
Although it is possible to obtain an official driver's license in Germany without taking the theory or practical test thanks to a reciprocity agreement the majority of expats would be better off beginning from scratch. This requires going through a driving school and spending a significant amount of money.
Driving schools can be found all over the world and offer a range of courses, ranging from the basic car class to a bus, truck or passenger transport license. They are also able to offer you a theory course in your native language. The cost of the course can vary in some places, with some charging less than others. The best method to find a suitable driving school is to ask around and read online reviews.
The process to convert an American driving licence to a German driving licence could take between two and six months depending on whether you have a reciprocity agreement or not. If you do not then you will need to translate your driver's license in German, which can be done by a sworn translator or a recognised automobile organization. Alternatively, you can submit an extract of your registry from the KBA in the 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 passenger seat and you will drive the vehicle while being asked questions. If you pass, you will be able to get your driving licence within a few weeks.
If you fail the test, you will need to take the test again with an additional instructor and pay an additional fee. You'll also have to prove that you passed the medical exam and, if needed, show a certificate for 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'll need to submit an original driver's license translated as well as a medical certificate in this instance. You will also need to submit a certified translation your passport along with a photocard.
Can I exchange my driving license from another country for a German license?
If you're moving to one of the states or countries that has a reciprocity deal with Germany, it is relatively simple to exchange your license to one from Germany. This agreement is in force with 27 states which include New York, California and others. If fuhrerschein kaufen hold an official driving license from one of these states, then you won't need to take an examination in the form of a written or driving test in Germany. You can get your full German license. You will need to show your current driver's license, proof of your identity (usually a valid passport or national ID card) and a picture that was taken in recent times. The requirements for each federal state (Lander) vary, so it is best to confirm the requirements of your local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before making an appointment.
You only need to exchange your license within the first six months of your residency. If you do not, you could be deemed to be in violation of your residency permit. The authorities could be able to take action against you. If you plan on using car-sharing services, many of which require a European or German license This is a further reason to get the process going and start working towards getting your German license.
Those who are moving to Germany from outside of the EU/EEA region can continue to use their driver's license up to a year after they have registered their address. They must, however, get it translated by a sworn translation, a recognized internationally automotive organization or a licensed interpreter. This is a vital step, as many insurance companies won't insure drivers from outside 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)". This can be done online, by phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need your current license as well as a German translation of your license, a copy of your driving history from your country of origin, and evidence of identity. Additionally, you will be required to pay a fee of approximately EUR35 which 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 by mail that your application has been submitted (Bescheinigung).