How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is an asset that is valuable not only due to its high standards, but also because its recognition is widespread throughout Europe. It is therefore not uncommon for expats to wish to exchange their current licence to a German one when their EU / EEA driving license expires.
What are the requirements?
You must meet several prerequisites before you can get a German license. These include the type of vehicle that you intend to drive and your age. To get a class B driver's license, you must be 18 years old. This is the minimum age for the majority of passenger cars and small commercial vehicles. You can also get 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 tractor. In some instances, you may require passing an oral or written test before being able to take a practical test.
Some countries allow their citizens to swap their licenses for a German one, without having to pass an examination. This is applicable 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'll need to pass the written test and the practical test if you are not from one of these countries. In certain situations, you might have to pass an eye test and a medical examination.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact procedure differs. But generally, you will need to bring proof of insurance and a foreign driving license, as well as an official letter from your employer or city stating that you have relocated to Germany. You may also need to bring a photograph.
The cost of the driving exam varies according to the area you reside in Germany. However, it is usually less than EUR100. Once you've passed both the practical and written tests and passed the written test, your German driving license will be available for pickup within some weeks.
It is crucial to be aware of the requirements of a German driving license, as many foreigners are required to have one to drive legally in the country. It isn't easy to use public transportation in rural areas and during bad weather. A car will simplify the process.
How do I apply for a German driving license?
You can convert a driving license from another EU country or a country recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to the German license without taking any tests. You can complete this process by arranging an appointment with the local driver's licensing authority, also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring your original license along with a proof of identity as well as a passport photo. In most cases, you will be able to obtain your German driving licence in four weeks.
If deutschen führerschein kaufen erfahrungen was issued in the UK, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland or Andorra, you can use it for up to six months prior to getting the German license. To do this, you will need to verify your address of residence and complete a German test for language proficiency which is available through a private school or at the local language center.
It can take a while to get a German license however, it's essential to be competent to drive safely on the road. In addition, it can help you rent a car easier, since some rental companies might require an German license. It is essential 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 get some practice behind the wheel in order to make you feel more at ease during your test. Farschule123 is a website that allows users to search for a driving school by location and vehicle type. In addition there are many driving schools that offer classes in various languages.
Renewing your German driving license is a simple process. You should make an appointment at your local driving licensing office at least four weeks prior to the date your license expires. You will need to bring your license, a recent passport photograph and pay a small amount of approximately 24 euros. Your new driving licence will be in place within four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
It is possible to get an German driver's license without having to pass the practical or theory test, thanks to an arrangement of reciprocity. However, many expats should consider starting from the beginning. This involves going through an Fahrschule (driving school) and paying a significant sum of money.
Driving schools are available across the country and offer a variety of courses, from a basic car course to a truck, bus or passenger transport license. You can also enroll in 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 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 agreement it is necessary to hire an interpreter to translate your license into German. This can be done either by a sworn translation or through an automobile organization. You could submit the KBA registry extract from your country of birth as proof of residency.
You'll need to pass a practical test once you have all of the required documents. During the practical exam, the driving instructor sits in the passenger's seat while you drive your vehicle and you must answer questions. You will be issued your driving license a few days after you pass.
If you fail the practical test, you'll need to take the test again with another instructor and pay the fee. You will also need to demonstrate 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). You will need to provide a translated driver's license and a medical certification in this case. You will also need to provide a certified translation of your passport and an image-based ID card.
Can I swap my driving license from a foreign country for an German license?
If you are moving to a state or country which has a reciprocity arrangement with Germany the process of exchanging your license to one German one is fairly simple. This agreement is in force with 27 states that include New York, California and other states. If you hold an driving license from one of these states, you won't need to take a written or road test in Germany. You can obtain your complete German license. You must present your current driver's license and evidence of identity (usually a passport or a national ID card) and a recent photograph. The exact requirements vary between the federal states (Lander) and it is recommended to inquire with the local authority responsible for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) prior to making an appointment.
It is only necessary to exchange your license for a German one within the first six months of residence. If you don't do it, this could be a violation of your residency permit. The authorities may be able to take action against you. If you are planning to use car-sharing services, most of which require the use of a European or German license, this is even more reason to get this process going and start working towards obtaining your German license.
People who move to Germany from outside the EU/EEA can continue using their driver's licence for a maximum of 12 months after they register their address. They must, however, get it translated by a certified translation, an internationally recognized automotive organization, or a licensed interpreter. This is an essential step, as many insurance companies will not insure 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 the appointment online, by phone, or at the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need your current license as well as an official German translation of the license, your driving history from the country of origin, and proof of identity. You will also have to pay a fee which is around EUR35. This can be paid in cash or through a bank transfer. You will receive a confirmation via mail after you have submitted all the required documents.
