How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a valuable asset, not only due to its high standards however, its recognition is widespread throughout Europe. It is not unusual for expats to wish to exchange their current license to a German one when their EU / EEA driving license expires.
What are the prerequisites for the application?
There are a few prerequisites before you can get a German license. These include the type of vehicle you intend to drive and your age. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a class B driver's license which is required for most passenger vehicles as well as small commercial vehicles. You can also obtain an E or class C license if you want to drive heavy vehicles, such as buses and trucks, or a class T license for agricultural or forestry tractor. You may be required to pass an oral or written test in some cases before you are able to take the test.
Certain citizens of countries are able to exchange their license for one that is a German one without having to pass a test. 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 be required to pass a written and practical test before getting the German driver's license. In some cases you may also have to pass a medical exam and an eye test.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The process for applying varies, but generally, you'll need to bring an official letter from your employer or the city stating that you've relocated to Germany and a proof of insurance, and a foreign license. You may need to include an image.
The cost of the driving test varies dependent on where you reside in Germany however, it's usually less than EUR100. Once you've passed both the practical and written tests, your German driving license should be available for pickup within several weeks.
It is essential to understand the requirements for a German license as a lot of expats require one to legally drive in the country. It isn't easy to use public transportation in rural areas and during severe weather. A car will help.
How do I obtain 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 tests. The process can be completed by making an appointment at your local driver's licensing authority known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need your original license as well as a form of identification, and a passport photo. 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 can use it for up to six months before you can apply for a German license. To obtain a German license you must register your residence address and pass a German test of your language that can be taken through a private school or at the local language center.
It could take a while to get an German license, but it's a must to be competent to drive safely on the roads. Read Homepage can also make renting a car a lot easier since some rental agencies require a German driving license. Driving in Germany is a serious issue and should be treated accordingly.
It is suggested that you enroll in a driving school and get some practice driving to make you feel more comfortable during your exam. You can find a driving school through Farschule-123 that lets you filter by area and type of vehicle. Additionally there are many driving schools that offer classes in several languages.
Renewing your German driving license is simple. Simply make an appointment with your local driving licensing authority at least four weeks before the expiration date of your license. You'll need your license, a recent 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?
It is possible to obtain a German driver's licence without taking the theory or practical test, thanks to the reciprocity arrangement. However, the majority of expats would be better off starting from the beginning. This means going through an Fahrschule (driving school for drivers) and paying a substantial sum of money.
You can find driving schools across the country. They offer a wide range of courses starting from a basic driving instruction in cars to a truck or bus license. You can also enroll in the theory course in your own language. The cost can vary considerably, with some charging less than others. Asking around and checking online reviews is the best method to find the most suitable driving school.
The process of changing an American driving license to one that is a German one could take anywhere from two to six months, based on the availability of the driving school and whether or not you have an agreement for reciprocity. If you do not have one, you must translate your driver's licence into German and this can be done by a sworn translator or a recognized automobile organization. In addition, you could submit the KBA registry extract in your country of birth as proof of residency.
You will need to take an exam in the form of a practical test after you have all the necessary documents. During the test the driving instructor sits in the seat of the passenger as you drive the vehicle and answer questions. If you pass, you will be able to obtain your driving licence a few weeks later.
If you fail the test, you'll have to repeat the process with a different instructor and pay an additional fee. You will also need to demonstrate that you have passed the medical exam and, if required, 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 a translated driver's license and a medical certificate in this instance. Additionally, you will need to provide a certified translation of your passport along with photo identification.
Can I exchange my driving license from another country for one in Germany? German license?
If you are moving to an area or state that has a reciprocity agreement with Germany and Germany, the process of exchanging your license to one German one is relatively easy. Twenty-seven states, which includes 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 pass the written or road test in Germany which will permit you to obtain a full German driver's license. You'll need your current driver's license, proof of identity (usually an original passport or a national ID card) and a picture that was taken recently. The exact requirements differ between the federal states (Lander) and so it is best to consult the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) prior to making an appointment.
You only have to exchange your license to one of a German one within the first six months of your residency. If you don't, it could be considered 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, the majority of which require an European or German license, this is even more reason to get this process started and work towards obtaining your German license.
Anyone who is moving to Germany from outside the EU/EEA may continue to use their driver's license up to one year after registering their address. However, they must have it translated into German by a sworn translator, an internationally recognized automobile organization or a licensed translator. This is a crucial step, since many insurance companies won't insure drivers who are not from 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 completed online, over the phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need your current license, the German translation of your license, your driving history from the country of origin, and identification proof. You will also be required to pay a fee of around EUR35 that you can pay in cash or by a bank transfer. You will receive a confirmation by mail after you have submitted all the required documents.