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 widely spread across Europe. Many expats want to exchange their driving licence from the EU/EEA for one with a German license once it expires.
What are the requirements?
There are a few prerequisites before you can get a German license. These include the type of vehicle you want to drive and your age. To get a class B driver's licence, you must be 18 years old. This is the minimum age required for most passenger cars and small commercial vehicles. You can also apply for 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 tractors. You may be required to pass an oral or written test in certain cases before you can sit for the test.
Citizens of some countries can exchange their license for a German one without having to pass 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.
If you're not from one of these countries, you will need to pass a written and a practical test before getting the German driver's license. In some cases you may require an eye test or an examination for medical reasons.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact process varies in each case, but you'll need to bring an official letter from your employer or city stating that you've relocated to Germany and a proof of insurance, and your foreign license. You may also need to bring a photograph.
echten führerschein kaufen Fuehrerscheinn of the driving test will vary based on the location you reside in Germany. However, it is usually less than EUR100. After you have completed both the written and practical test and have passed both tests, your German driving licence should be available for collection within several days.
It is essential to understand the requirements for a German license as a lot of expats require one to legally drive in the country. Taking public transport can be a challenge and inconvenient for those living in rural areas, especially in the winter months, so having a vehicle is often essential.
How do I obtain a German driver's license?
If you hold a driver's license from another country in 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 a German one without having to take any exams. You can complete this process by arranging an appointment with the local driver's licensing authority or the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need to bring the original license, a form or identification, and a passport photo. In the majority of cases the German licence will be ready for you to pick up in about 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 the German license. To get this license you must sign up for your address and take a German test which can be completed at a local language center or a private language school.
Obtaining a German driving license can take some time however, it is essential to be safe to drive on the roads. It can also make renting a car much simpler, as certain rental companies may require a German license. It is crucial to remember that driving in Germany is an important business and should be treated as such.
It is recommended that you enroll in a driving school and do some practice behind the wheel, as it will help you feel more comfortable during your exam. You can find driving schools through Farschule-123.com that lets you filter by area and the type of vehicle. Some driving schools also offer theory classes in a variety of languages.
Renewal of your German driving licence is simple. Simply schedule an appointment with your local driving licensing authority at least four weeks prior to the date the expiration date of your license. You'll need to bring your license, a recent passport photo and pay a small fee of about 24 euros. Then your new driving license will be ready to pick up in four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
While it is possible to get a driver's license in Germany without taking the theory or practical test due to a reciprocity arrangement, most expats are better off starting from scratch. This requires completing a Fahrschule (driving school) and paying a substantial sum of money.
Driving schools are located across the country and offer a variety of courses, ranging from a basic car course to a truck, bus or passenger transport licence. You can also take theory classes in your native language. The cost of the course can vary, with some charging less than others. The best way to locate a suitable driving school is to ask around and check online reviews.
The process to convert an American driving license to one that is a German driving licence could take between two and six months based on whether you have a reciprocity contract or not. If you do not have a reciprocity arrangement then you'll need an interpreter to translate your license into German. This can be done by a sworn translation or an automobile association. You can also submit an extract of your registry from the KBA in your country of origin as proof of residency.
Once you have the necessary documents, you'll need to sit for a test. During this exam, the driving instructor will sit in the front 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 test, you'll have to repeat the process with another instructor and pay a fee. You will also need to show that you have completed the medical examination and, if required 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). In this case, you will need an original drivers' license and medical certificate. You must also provide a certified translation of your passport as well as an image-based ID card.
Can I swap my driving license from a foreign country for one in Germany? German license?
If you're moving from a country or state that has a reciprocity deal with Germany, it is relatively easy to exchange your license to one in Germany. This agreement is in force with 27 states that include New York, California and other states. If you have a driving license from one of these states, then you don't have to pass an examination in the form of a written or driving test in Germany. You can get your complete German license. You must present your current driver's licence as well as identification proof (usually a passport or national ID card) and a recent photograph. The requirements for each state (Lander) vary, so it is best to check your local driving license authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle), before booking an appointment.
You only need to exchange your license within the first six months of your residency. If you fail to do this, it could be considered a violation to your residency permit and the authorities could be able to take action against you. If you are planning to use car-sharing services, many of which require a European or German license, this is even more reason to get the process underway and begin working towards obtaining your German license.
Those who move to Germany from outside the EU/EEA area can continue using their driver's licence for up to 12 months after they register their address. However, they must have it translated by a certified translation, a globally recognized automotive organisation, or a licensed interpreter. This is a vital step, since many insurance companies won't insure drivers from outside the EU/EEA without 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, over the phone or at the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will require your current license, the German translation of your license, your driving history from your country of origin, and identification proof. You will also have to pay a fee, that is about EUR35. This can be paid in cash or by bank transfer. You will receive a confirmation by mail once you have submitted all the required documents.