How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is an important and valuable asset, not just because of its strict standards, but additionally because it is recognized across Europe. Many expats want to exchange their EU/EEA driving licence for a German license when it expires.
What are the requirements?
There are several requirements to purchasing the German driving license, including the type of vehicle you'd like to drive as well as your age. To get a class B driver's license, you have to be 18 years old. This is the minimum age required for the majority of passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also get a class C or E license if you plan to drive heavy vehicles such as buses and trucks or a class T license for agricultural or forestry tractor. You may need to pass an oral or written test in certain cases before you can sit for the practical exam.
Citizens of some countries can change their licenses to a German one without taking a test. This includes those from 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, the U.S.A (certain states) and Singapore.
You will need to pass the written test and the practical test if you are not from one these countries. In some cases you may require an eye test and an examination for medical reasons.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact procedure differs. But generally you'll require proof of insurance as well as your foreign driving license, along with a letter from either your city or employer stating that you have relocated to Germany. You may also be required to provide a photo.
The cost of the driving test is different dependent on where you reside in Germany however, it's usually less than EUR100. Once you've passed the written and practical tests then your German driving license should be available to pick up within a few weeks.
It's important to understand the requirements for the German license since many foreigners will require one to legally drive in the country. Public transportation can be difficult and inconvenient for those living in rural areas, particularly in bad weather, which is why having a vehicle is often a necessity.
How do I get a German driving license?
You can convert a driver's license from another EU country or one recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to the German license without taking any exams. You can complete this process by arranging an appointment with the local authority for driver's licenses or the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring the original license, a form of identification as well as a passport photo. In most cases, you can get your German driving licence in four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK or Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, Switzerland, Andorra or Andorra you are able to use it for a maximum of six month before getting an German licence. To get this license, you must register your address and be able to pass a German language test that can be taken at a local language center or a private language school.
It can take a while to get the German license however it is a must to be safe to drive on the road. It also makes renting a vehicle easier, since some rental companies require a German driving license. Driving in Germany is a serious issue and must be handled accordingly.
It is suggested to take driving classes and get a driving lesson. This will make you more comfortable before taking your test. You can find driving schools through the website Farschule-123, which allows you to filter by area and type of vehicle. Some driving schools also offer theory classes in different languages.
Renewing your German driving license is simple. You should make an appointment at the office of your local driving license at least four weeks prior to your license expiring. You'll need your license, a recent passport photograph and pay a small amount of about 24 euros. Then your new driving licence will be available for you to pick up in four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
While it is possible to obtain an official driver's license in Germany without taking the theoretical or practical test, thanks to a reciprocity agreement the majority of expats would be better off beginning from scratch. This means taking a driving course and paying a large sum of money.
Driving schools are available across the country. They offer a wide variety of courses, beginning with a basic driver's course in cars to a truck or bus license. You can also enroll in the theory course in your own 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 read online reviews.
The process of changing an American driving license to one that is a German one can take anywhere between two and six months, based on the availability of the driving school and if you have an agreement for reciprocity. If you don't then you will need to translate your driver's license into German and this can be done by a certified translator or a recognized automobile organization. You can also submit an extract of your registry from the KBA in your country of origin as proof of residency.
Once deutschen führerschein legal kaufen have all the necessary documents, you will need to sit for a test. During this exam, the driving 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 passing.
If you fail the practical test, you will need to take the test again with an additional instructor and pay a fee. You will also need to demonstrate that you have passed the medical exam 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 the driver's license in a translation as well as a medical certificate in this case. Additionally, you will need to present a certified translation of your passport as well as a photocard.
Can I swap my driving license from a foreign country for a German license?
If you're moving to a state or country with a reciprocity agreement with Germany and Germany, the process of transferring your license for one German one is relatively simple. This agreement is in force with 27 states which include New York, California and others. If you have an 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 will be able to get your complete German license. You must present your current driver's licence as well as identification proof (usually an identity card or passport) ID card) and a recent photograph. The exact requirements differ between the federal states (Lander) and it is best to consult the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) prior to making an appointment.
You are only required to exchange your license for a German one within the first six months of residence. If you don't, this could be a violation of your residency permit. The authorities could take action against you. If you're planning on using car-sharing services, most of which require an 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 region can keep their driver's license for a maximum of 12 months after they register their address. They must, however, have it translated by a certified translation, a globally recognized automotive organisation or a certified interpreter. This is a crucial step as a lot of insurance companies will not insure drivers from outside the EU/EEA 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)". This can be completed online, over the phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will need to provide your current license, a translation of the license into German and your driver's record from your home country, and proof of identity. You will also have to pay a fee of around EUR35 that you can pay in cash or with an electronic transfer to a bank. When you have all the required documents, you will receive confirmation by mail that your application was submitted (Bescheinigung). submitted (Bescheinigung).