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, but also because its recognition is widespread across Europe. Foreigners often want to swap their driving license from the EU/EEA to one with a German license after it expires.
What are the requirements?
There are a variety of requirements for purchasing a German driving license, including the type of vehicle you'd like to drive and your age. You must be 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 apply for a class E or C license if you want to drive large vehicles like trucks and buses. Or a class T for forestry or agricultural tractors. In certain instances you might require passing a written or oral test before being able to take a practical test.
Citizens of some countries can change their licenses to a German one without taking a test. This includes citizens of countries that are part of the European Union or the European Economic Area, as well as 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 pass a written and a practical test before getting an German driver's license. In certain cases, you'll require an eye test and a medical examination.
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 stating that you have relocated to Germany and a proof of insurance, and a foreign license. You may also need to submit a picture.
The cost of the driving exam is dependent on where you live in Germany. However, it is usually less than EUR100. After you've passed the practical and written tests and passed the written test, your German driving license will be available for pickup within several weeks.
It is essential to understand the requirements for the German license because many expats will require one to legally drive in Germany. It can be difficult to take public transportation in rural areas and in bad weather. Having a car can make it easier.
How do I get a German driver's license?
You can convert a driving license from another EU country or a country recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to an German license without having to take any tests. The process can be completed by making an appointment with the local authority for driver's licenses which is known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring the original license, a form of identification as well as a passport photo. In the majority of cases, you can get your German driving licence within 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 prior you can apply for a German license. In order to do so, you will need to identify your residence address and complete an German test of your language which is available through a private school or at the local language center.
It may take some time to obtain a German license, but it's a must to be competent to drive safely on the road. It also makes renting a car a lot easier since some rental agencies require that you have at least a German driving license. It is crucial to remember that driving in Germany is a serious business and should be treated as such.
It is recommended to enroll in a driving school and do some practice behind the wheel to aid you in feeling more comfortable during your exam. Farschule123 is a website that allows you to find driving schools by location and type of vehicle. Additionally numerous driving schools offer classes in various languages.
Renewing your German driving license is a simple process. Schedule an appointment with the local office for driving license renewal at least four weeks prior to the date your license expires. deutschland für den kauf eines führerscheins will need to bring your license, a recent passport photo and pay a small fee of approximately 24 euros. Then your new driving licence will be available for you to pick up in four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
While it is possible to obtain an driver's license in Germany without having to pass the theoretical or practical test, thanks to a reciprocity arrangement, the majority of expats should consider starting from the beginning. This means going through an Fahrschule (driving school) and paying a substantial amount of money.
Driving schools are available across the country and offer a range of classes, from an entry-level car course to a truck, bus or passenger transport license. You can also attend the theory course in your own language. The cost can vary considerably in some places, with some charging less than others. Asking around and checking online reviews is the best method to find the right driving school.
The process to convert an American driving licence to an German driving license can take between two and six months, based on whether you have a reciprocity contract or not. If you do not have one, you must translate your driver's license in German, which can be done by a certified translator or a recognised automobile organization. Alternatively, you can submit a registry extract from the KBA in your country of origin as proof of residency.
You will need to take an actual test once you have all the necessary documents. During this, the driving instructor will be in the passenger seat and you will drive the vehicle while being asked questions. You will get your driving license a few days after passing.
If you fail the exam in the exam, you'll need to go through the entire process again with another instructor and pay the fee. You'll also have to prove that you passed the medical exam and, if required 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'll need the driver's license in a translation and a medical certificate in this case. You will also have to provide a certified translation and photocard of your passport.
Can I swap my driving license from a foreign country to get one in Germany? German license?
If you are moving from a country or state which has a reciprocity arrangement with Germany the process of exchanging your license for a German one is relatively simple. This agreement is in place with 27 states, including New York, California and others. If you have an official driving license from one of these states, then you will not need to take an exam in the form of a road or written test in Germany. You can obtain your complete German license. You will be required to present your current driver's license, identification proof (usually a passport or national ID card) as well as a recent photo. The exact requirements differ between the states that are federal (Lander) and so it is recommended to inquire with your local driving licensing authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle) prior to making an appointment.
You are only required to change your license within the first six months of your residency. If you do not do this, it will be deemed a violation of your residency permit and authorities may be able to take action against you. If you're planning on using car-sharing services, most of which require an European or German license and this is an additional reason to get this process started and work towards getting your German license.
Those who move to Germany from outside the EU/EEA region can continue to use their driver's license for a maximum of 12 months after they register their address. However they must have it translated into German by a sworn translator or an internationally recognized automotive organization or a licensed translator. This is an essential 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 make this appointment online, by phone, or at 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, as well as proof of identity. Additionally, you will be required to pay a fee of approximately EUR35 which you can pay cash or via the transfer of funds from a bank. After you have all the required documents you will be notified via email that your application has been accepted (Bescheinigung). (Bescheinigung).