How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a vital and valuable asset, not just because of its rigorous standards but it also because it is recognised throughout Europe. Expats often want to change their driving license from the EU/EEA to a German license when it expires.
What are the requirements?
There are a few requirements before you can buy a German license. This includes the type of vehicle you intend to drive and your age. You must be 18 years old in order to obtain an official driver's license of class B that is required for most passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also get an E or C class license if you want to drive large vehicles, such as buses and trucks. Also, you can get a class T for forest or agricultural tractor. You may need to pass an oral or written test in certain cases before you can take the test in the practical.
Some countries permit citizens to exchange their licenses for licenses that are a German one, without having to pass 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.
If you're not from one of these countries, you'll need to pass a written and practical test before getting a German driver's license. In some cases you may 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. In general you'll require proof of insurance as well as your foreign driving license, as well as an official letter from your employer or city stating that you've relocated to Germany. You may need to include photos.
The cost of the driving test varies according to the area you reside in Germany. However it's typically less than EUR100. Once you've passed the practical and written tests, your German driving license will be available for pickup within several weeks.
It is important to know the requirements for a German license because many expats will need to have one to legally drive in the country. Public transportation can be a hassle and uncomfortable for those living in rural areas, particularly in the winter months, so having a car is often a necessity.
How do I get a German driving license?
You can convert a driving licence from an EU country or one recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to the German license without having to take any exams. knowing it can be completed by making an appointment with the local driver's licensing authority, also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need the original license, a form or identification, and a passport photo. In the majority of cases, you can get your German driving license in four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK or Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, Switzerland, Andorra or Andorra you can use it for a maximum of six months before obtaining an German licence. To obtain this you must sign up for your address and pass a German test that can be taken at a local language centre or a private language school.
It can take a while to obtain a German license however, it's essential to be able to safely drive on the road. It also makes renting a car easier, since some rental agencies require you to have an German driving license. Driving in Germany is a serious thing and should be treated with care.
It is recommended that you enroll in a driving school and get some practice behind the wheel in order to aid you in feeling more comfortable during your test. The website Farschule123 allows users to search for a driving school by location and vehicle type. In addition there are many driving schools that offer classes in a variety of languages.
Renewal of your German driving license is easy. You should make an appointment at the local office for driving license renewal at minimum four weeks before your license expiring. You'll need your driving licence, a current passport photo and pay a small amount of approximately 24 euros. Then, your new driving licence will be ready to pick up within four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
It is possible to obtain an official driver's license in Germany without taking the theory or practical test, thanks to a reciprocity arrangement, the majority of expats would be better off starting from scratch. This requires completing a Fahrschule (driving school for drivers) and paying a substantial amount of money.
You can find driving schools all over the country. They offer a broad range of courses starting from a basic driving course in cars to a truck or bus license. You can also attend classes in your native language. Some schools charge less than others. The best method to find the right driving school is to ask around and look up online reviews.
The process to convert an American driving license to a German driving licence 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 into German, which can be accomplished by a sworn translator or a recognised automobile organization. You can also submit a registry extract from the KBA in the country of origin to prove of residence.
You will need to take an exam in the form of a practical test after you have all the required documents. During the exam the instructor is in the seat of the passenger as you drive the vehicle and respond to questions. If you pass, you will be able to get your driving licence within a few weeks.
If you fail the practical test, you'll have to take the test again with a different instructor and pay the fee. You'll also have to show that you have passed the medical exam 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'll need to submit the driver's license in a translation and a medical certification in this instance. You will also be required to provide a certified translation and a photocopy of your passport.
Can I exchange my foreign driving license to get an German license?
If you are moving from a country or state that has a reciprocity agreement with Germany, the process of transferring your license for one that is a German one is relatively simple. Twenty-seven states, including New York and California, have this agreement, meaning that if you can present your driving license from these states, you won't be required to take the road or written test in Germany and will be able to allow you to obtain a full German driver's license. You'll need to show your current driver's license as well as evidence of identity (usually a passport or national ID card) and a recent photograph. The requirements for each state (Lander) vary, so it is best to confirm the requirements of your local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before making an appointment.
It is only necessary to exchange your license for a German one 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 may be able to take action against you. If you intend to use car-sharing services that require the use of a European license or a German license it is more important to begin the process and work towards getting your German licence.
Anyone who is moving to Germany from outside the EU/EEA may continue to utilize their driver's licence for up to a year after they have registered their address. They must, however, be able to have it translated by a sworn translation, a globally recognized automotive organization or a licensed interpreter. This is a vital step because most insurance companies won't offer insurance to drivers outside of the EU/EEA region without an official 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, by phone or at the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need your current license, an official translation of the license into German and your driver's record from your home country, and documents of identity. You will also have to pay a fee which is around EUR35. This can be paid in cash or by bank transfer. When you have all the required documents you will be notified by mail that your application was submitted (Bescheinigung). accepted (Bescheinigung). (Bescheinigung).