How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is an important and valuable asset, not just because of its rigorous standards but additionally because it is recognised throughout Europe. Foreigners often want to swap their EU/EEA driving licence for the German license after it expires.
What are the requirements for the application?
There are a variety of requirements for purchasing a German driving license, such as the type of vehicle you'd like to drive and the age. You must be at least 18 years old in order to obtain an official driver's license of class B that is required for all passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also apply for an E or class C license if you plan to drive heavy vehicles like trucks and buses or a class T license for forestry or agricultural tractor. In some cases you might have to pass a written or oral test before you are allowed to take a test.
Citizens of some countries can change their licenses to one of a German one without having to take an exam. 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 both a written test and a practical test if not from one of these countries. In certain situations, you might have to pass 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 procedure for applying for a driving license is different. But generally, you will need to bring proof of insurance and a foreign driving license, along with a letter from either your employer or city stating that your have moved to Germany. You may also need to show a photo.
The cost of the driving test is different depending on where you live in Germany however, it's typically less than EUR100. Once you've passed both the practical and written tests then your German driving license should be available for pick-up within several weeks.
It's important to understand the requirements for a German license as a lot of expats will require one to legally drive in the country. Public transport can be a challenge and uncomfortable for those living in rural areas, particularly during bad weather, so 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 an German license without taking any exams. This process can be accomplished by arranging an appointment with your local authority for driver's licences known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring your original license, a form of identification and a passport photograph. In the majority of cases, you can obtain your German driving licence in four weeks.
If your licence was issued in the UK, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland or Andorra you are able to use it for up to six months before getting a German license. To do this you must first register your address and take an German test, which can be done at a local language centre or a private language school.
Obtaining an German driving license can take a while however, it is an essential step to be competent to drive safely on the road. It can also make renting a car much simpler, as certain rental companies may require you to hold an German license. Driving in Germany is a serious issue and must be handled accordingly.
It is suggested to take driving lessons and get a driving lesson. This will make you more confident when you take your test. Farschule123 lets you to find 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 simple. You should make an appointment at the local office for driving license renewal at least four weeks prior to the expiration date of your license. You'll need to bring your driving licence, a current passport photo and pay a small amount of about 24 euros. Then your new driving licence will be ready to pick up in four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
While it is possible to get 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 beginning from scratch. This requires going through a driving school and spending a significant amount of money.
You can find driving schools across the nation. They offer a wide range of courses from a basic instruction in cars to a truck or bus license. They will also be able to give you theory classes in your own language. The cost of the course can vary and some schools charging less than others. The best way to locate the right driving school is to ask around and read online reviews.
The process of converting an American driving license to a German one can take between two and six months, depending on the availability of the driving school and whether or not you have a reciprocity agreement. If you do not have a reciprocity arrangement, you will need an interpreter to translate your license into German. This can be done by a sworn translation or an automobile organization. Alternately, you can submit an extract of your registry from the KBA in your country of origin as proof of residence.
You will need to take a practical test once you have all the necessary documents. During the exam the instructor is in the passenger's seat while you drive the vehicle and respond to questions. If you pass, you'll be able to pick up your driving licence a few weeks later.
If you fail the practical test, you'll have to repeat the process with a different instructor and pay an additional fee. Additionally, you will have to prove you have passed a medical examination and, if needed present a certificate of good eye sight.
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 an original driver's license translated and a medical certification in this case. You will also need to submit a certified translation and a photocopy of your passport.
Can cool training exchange my license from abroad to a German one?
If you are moving to a country or state that has a reciprocity agreement with Germany and Germany, the process of swapping your license to a German one is relatively easy. 27 states, including New York and California, have this agreement. This means that if you 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 allow you to obtain a complete German driver's license. You must present your current driver's license as well as identification proof (usually a passport or national ID card) and a recent photograph. The exact requirements differ among the states that are federal (Lander) and therefore it's best to check with the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before scheduling an appointment.
It is only necessary to exchange your license to one of a German one within the first six months of residence. If you do not, you could be deemed to be in violation to your residency permit. The authorities may take action against you. If you are planning to use car-sharing services many of which require a European or German license and this is an additional reason to get the process started and work towards obtaining your German license.
Those who move to Germany from outside the EU/EEA area can continue using their driver's licence for a maximum of 12 months after they register their address. However they must have it translated into German by a certified translator or an internationally recognized automotive organization or a licensed translator. This is a vital step as a lot of 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 telephone 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 documents of identity. Additionally, you will be required to pay a fee of about EUR35 that you can pay in cash or with the transfer of funds from a bank. You will receive a confirmation via mail once you have submitted all the required documents.