How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a vital and valuable asset, not just because of its rigorous standards but additionally because it is recognised throughout Europe. It is not unusual for expats to want 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 several prerequisites before you can get a German license. This includes the type of vehicle that you want to drive and your age. To obtain a class-B driver's license, you have to be 18 years old. This is the minimum age for the majority of passenger cars and small commercial vehicles. You can also apply for an E or C class license if you want to drive large vehicles like trucks and buses. Or a class T for forestry or agricultural tractor. In certain instances you will need to pass an oral or written test before you are allowed to take a practical test.
Some countries permit their citizens to exchange 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 an exam written and a practical test if not from one these countries. In some cases you may also be required 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 however, generally, you'll need an official letter from your employer or the city in which you've relocated to Germany along with proof of insurance, as well as your foreign license. You may also need to bring photos.
The cost of the driving test varies depending on where you live in Germany, but it is usually less than EUR100. Once you've passed the written and practical tests then your German driving license should be available for pick-up within several weeks.
It is essential to know the requirements for the German driving license, since many expats must have one in order to legally drive in the country. Public transportation can be difficult and uncomfortable for those living in rural areas, particularly during bad weather, so having a car is often necessary.
How do I obtain a German driver's license?
If you have a driving license from another country within the European Union (EU) or from a country recognized by Germany as having full or partial reciprocity, you can convert your licence to one of a German one without taking any exams. You can do this by booking an appointment at your local driver's license authority which is also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need your original license along with a proof of identity and a passport photo. In most cases, you can pick up your German driving license in four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland or Andorra you are able to use it for up to six months before obtaining a German license. To do this, you must register your address and pass the German test which can be completed at a local language centre 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 able to drive safely on the roads. It can also help you rent a car simpler, as certain rental companies may require you to hold an German license. Driving in Germany is a serious thing and must be handled accordingly.
It is recommended that you enroll in driving schools and get some practice driving, as it will make you feel more comfortable during your test. You can find a driving school through Farschule-123 which lets you filter by area and kind of vehicle. Many driving schools also offer theory classes in different languages.
Renewal of your German driving license is a straightforward process. Simply schedule an appointment with your local driving licensing authority at least four weeks prior to when your license expires. You'll need to bring your driver's license and a passport photograph taken recently and pay a tiny amount of 24 euros. Your new driving licence will be ready in four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
While it is possible to obtain a driver's license in Germany without taking the theoretical or practical test due to a reciprocity arrangement, the majority of expats should consider starting from scratch. This involves going through a driving school and spending a significant amount of money.
Driving schools are available across the country. They provide a broad variety of courses, starting from a basic driving car course to a bus or truck license. You can also attend classes in your native language. Some schools are cheaper than others. Asking around and checking online reviews is the best way to find the most suitable driving school.
The process of converting an American driving license to a German one can take between two and six months, based on the availability of the driving school and whether or not you have a reciprocity agreement. If not, you will need to translate your driver's licence into German to be done by a certified translator or a recognised automobile organization. You can submit the KBA registry extract from your country of birth as proof of residency.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you'll have to take a practical test. During this exam, the instructor will sit in the passenger seat and you will drive the vehicle while being asked questions. You will receive your driving license within a few days after you pass.
If you fail the practical test, you will need to take the test again with an additional instructor and pay an additional fee. You must also prove that you completed the medical examination and, if necessary provide a proof 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'll need to submit an original driver's license translated and a medical certificate in this case. You will also have to provide a translation that is certified and photocard of your passport.
Can I exchange my driving license from another country for a German license?
If you're moving to an area or country with a reciprocity agreement with Germany, it is relatively simple to swap your license to one in Germany. 27 states, including New York and California, have this agreement. This means that if you can show your driver's license from these states, you will not be required to pass the road or written test here in Germany which will permit you to obtain a complete German driver's license. You will need to show your current driver's license, proof of your identity (usually an original passport or a national ID card), and a photo that was taken in recent times. The exact requirements differ among the federal states (Lander) and it is best to consult the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before making an appointment.
You will only need to exchange your license within the first six month of your residency. If you do not do this, it could be deemed a violation of your residency permit, and the authorities may decide to take action against you. If deutschen registrierten führerschein kaufen planning to use car-sharing services the majority of which require the use of a European or German license and this is an additional reason to get the process started and work towards obtaining your German license.
People who are moving to Germany from outside the EU/EEA can continue to utilize their driver's licence for up to one year after they have registered their address. However, they must get it translated by a sworn translation, an internationally recognized automotive organisation or a licensed interpreter. This is an essential step, since many insurance companies will not 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)". You can make the appointment on the internet, via phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will need to provide your current license, an official translation of the license into German as well as your driver's license from your home country, and evidence of identification. You will also have to pay a fee of about EUR35 that you can pay cash or via an electronic transfer to a bank. You will receive a confirmation via mail after you have submitted all the required documents.