How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is an important and valuable asset, not just due to its strict standards but it also because it is recognized throughout Europe. Expats often want to change their driving license from the EU/EEA to a German license after it expires.
What are the requirements?
You must meet several requirements before you can buy a German license. These include the type of vehicle you intend to drive and your age. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a driver's license class B that is required for most passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also apply for a class E or C license if you want to drive heavy vehicles like trucks and buses. Or a class T for forest or agricultural tractors. You may need to pass an oral or written test in certain situations before you can sit for the test.
Certain countries allow citizens to exchange their licenses with a German one, without having to pass a test. This includes those from countries belonging to the European Union or the European Economic Area, as in addition to 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, then you'll be required to take a written and practical test before getting a German driver's license. 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 procedure for applying for a driving license is different in each case, but you'll need a letter from your employer or city stating that you have moved to Germany, proof of insurance, and a foreign license. You may also need to submit a picture.
The cost of the driving test varies dependent on where you reside in Germany however, it's usually less than EUR100. Once you have passed both the written and practical test the German driving license should be ready for collection within a few days.
It's important to understand the requirements for a German license as a lot of expats will need to have one to legally drive in the country. Taking public transportation can be difficult and unreliable for those who live in rural areas, particularly in the winter months, so having a vehicle is often essential.
How do I get a 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 in full or partial form, you can convert your license to one of a German one without having to take any tests. This process can be accomplished by making an appointment with your local driver's licensing authority known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring your original license, a form of identification and a passport photograph. In the majority of cases, you can 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 obtaining a German license. To obtain a German license you must register your residence address and complete a German language test that can be taken through a private school or at the local language center.
It could take a while to get the German license, but it's a must to be able to safely drive on the road. It can also make renting a vehicle easier, since some rental agencies require you to have at least a German driving license. It is important to keep in mind that driving in Germany is an important business and should be treated as such.
It is recommended to enroll in a driving school and get some practice behind the wheel, as it will aid you in feeling more at ease during your test. The website Farschule123 allows you to search for a driving school by location and vehicle type. Many driving schools also offer theory classes in different languages.
Renewal of your German driving licence is simple. Schedule an appointment with the local office for driving license renewal at minimum four weeks before your license expiring. You'll be required to bring your driving licence, a passport photo taken recently and pay a small amount of 24 euros. Your new driving licence will be ready in four weeks.
Can führerschein ohne prüfung kaufen keep my American license?
Although it is possible to get an driver's license in Germany without taking the theoretical or practical test, thanks to a reciprocity agreement, most expats are better off starting from the beginning. This requires completing the Fahrschule (driving school for drivers) and paying a substantial sum of money.
Driving schools are located across the country and offer a variety of classes, from the basic car class to a truck, bus or passenger transport licence. You can also take classes in your native language. The price can be a bit different, with some charging less than others. Doing some research and reading online reviews is the best way to locate an appropriate driving school.
The process of changing an American driving license to 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 do not have a reciprocity arrangement, you will need an interpreter to translate your license into German. This is done through a sworn translation or through an automobile association. Alternately, you can submit a registry extract from the KBA in the country of origin to prove of residency.
You'll need to pass an actual test once you have all of the required documents. During the test the driving instructor sits in the passenger's seat as you drive your vehicle and you must answer questions. You will receive your driving license in a few days after passing.
If you fail the exam and fail the practical exam, you must go through the entire process again with a different instructor and pay the fee. You'll also have to demonstrate that you have completed the medical examination 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 a translated driver's license as well as a medical certificate in this instance. You will also be required to provide a translation that is certified and a photocopy of your passport.
Can I exchange my license from abroad for one in Germany? German one?
If you are moving to a country or state that has a reciprocity agreement with Germany, the process of exchanging your license for one German one is fairly simple. Twenty-seven states, including New York and California, have this agreement, which means that if you can present your driving license from these states, you won't be required to take the written or road test here in Germany, which will allow you to obtain a complete German driver's license. You must present your current driver's licence and proof of identity (usually a passport or national ID card) as well as a recent photo. The requirements for each federal state (Lander) vary and it is recommended to verify the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle), before booking an appointment.
You are only required to exchange your license to one that is a German one within the first six months of your residency. If you fail to do this, it will be considered a violation to your residency permit, and the authorities may decide to take action against you. If you're planning to use car-sharing services most of which require a European or German license This is a further reason to get the process underway and begin working towards obtaining your German license.
Anyone who is moving to Germany from outside of the EU/EEA can continue to use their driver's license for up to a year after registering their address. They must, however, get it translated by a sworn translation, an internationally recognized automotive organisation or a certified interpreter. This is an important step because many insurance companies won't offer insurance to drivers outside of the EU/EEA region without an official 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 to bring your current license, a translation of the license into German and your driver's record from your home country, and documents 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. When you have all the required documents, you will receive confirmation via email that your application has been submitted (Bescheinigung). submitted (Bescheinigung). (Bescheinigung).