How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a crucial and valuable asset, not just due to its strict standards but it also because it is recognised throughout Europe. Many expats want to exchange their driving licence from the EU/EEA for one with a German license once it expires.
What are the requirements?
You must meet a number of requirements before you can buy a German license. These include the type of vehicle that you want to drive and your age. You must be at least 18 years old in order to obtain a class B driver's license that is required for most passenger vehicles as well as small commercial vehicles. You can also apply for an E or C class license if you want to drive heavy vehicles like buses and trucks. A class T license is required for forestry or agricultural tractors. You may be required to pass an oral or written test in some cases before you are able to take the test.
Certain countries allow their citizens to swap their licenses for licenses that are a German one without having to pass an examination. This includes those from countries within the European Union or the European Economic Area as in addition to 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 an exam written and a practical test if you're not from one of these countries. In some cases, you may also need to pass a medical examination and an eye test.
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 however, generally, you'll need to bring a letter from your employer or city in which you've relocated to Germany, proof of insurance, and a foreign license. You may also be required to show a photo.
The cost of the driving exam varies according to where you live in Germany. However it's usually less than EUR100. Once you've passed both the written and practical tests then your German driving license will be available for pick-up within a few weeks.
It's important to understand the requirements for the German license because many expats will need to have one to legally drive in Germany. Taking public transport can be a challenge and uncomfortable for those living in rural areas, especially in the winter months, so having a car is often essential.
How do I get an German driver's license?
You can convert a driver's license from an EU country or a country recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to the German license without having to take any exams. This process can be accomplished by making an appointment with your local driver's licensing authority known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need to bring the original license along with a form or identification and a passport photograph. In the majority of instances the German licence will be available to pick up within 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 prior getting an German license. To do this, you will need to register your residence address and complete an German language test, which can be taken through a private school or at the local language center.
Obtaining the German driving license can take a while however, it is an essential step to be competent to drive safely on the roads. It also makes renting a car easier, since some rental companies require that you have at least a German driving license. It is essential to remember that driving in Germany is an extremely serious business, and must be treated as such.
It is recommended to sign up for driving lessons and get a driving lesson. This will make you more comfortable before taking your test. The website Farschule123 allows you to search for a driving school by location and type of vehicle. Many driving schools also offer theory classes in a variety of languages.
Renewal of your German driving licence is a straightforward process. Make an appointment with your local licensing authority at least four weeks prior to the date the expiration date of your license. You will be required to bring your driving license along with a passport photo that you took recently and pay a tiny amount of 24 euros. Your new driving license will be in place within four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
It is possible to obtain a German driver's licence without having to take the theory or practical test due to a reciprocity arrangement. However, the majority of expats should consider starting at the beginning. This requires attending a driving school and spending a significant amount of money.
Driving schools are located across the country and offer a variety of courses, ranging from a basic car course to a truck, bus or passenger transport license. You can also enroll in theory classes in your native language. The price can be a bit different, with some charging less than others. The best way to locate the best 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, based on the availability of the driving school and if you have a reciprocity agreement. If you do not have a reciprocity agreement it is necessary to hire a translator to translate your license into German. This is done through a certified translation or by an automobile organization. As an alternative, you can submit the KBA registry extract in your country of birth as proof of residency.
You'll have to take a practical test once you have all the required documents. During the exam, the driving instructor will be in the front seat and you will drive the vehicle while being asked questions. You will receive your driving license in a few days after passing.
If you fail the test, you will have to repeat the entire process with a different instructor, and pay the appropriate fee. Additionally, you will need to prove that you completed a medical exam 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). In this instance you'll need a translated drivers' licence and medical certificate. You will also need to provide a translation that is certified and photocard of your passport.
Can I exchange my license from abroad for one that is German one?
If you're moving from an area or country that has a reciprocity deal with Germany, it is relatively easy to exchange your license to one from Germany. 27 states, including New York and California, have this agreement, meaning that if you are able to present your driving license from these states, you will not be required to take the road or written test here in Germany, which will allow you to obtain a complete German driver's license. You'll need your current driver's license, proof of your identity (usually an authentic passport or a national ID card) as well as a photograph that was taken in recent times. The requirements for each federal state (Lander) vary and it is recommended to check your local driving license authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle) prior to making an appointment.
You are only required to exchange your license within the first six months of your residency. If you do not, this could be a violation to your residency permit. The authorities may decide to take action against you. If you plan to utilize car sharing services that require a European license or a German license, it is even more important to start the process and work towards getting your German licence.
Anyone who moves to Germany from outside the EU/EEA area can keep their driver's license for a maximum of 12 months after they have registered their address. They must, however, be able to have it translated by a certified translation, a recognized internationally automotive organisation or a licensed interpreter. This is a crucial step, since many insurance companies won't 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)". You can do this via the internet, by telephone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need your current license, a translation of the license into German as well as your driver's license from your home country, and documents of identity. Additionally, you will be required to pay a fee of about EUR35 which you can either pay in cash or with the transfer of funds from a bank. After fuhrerschein kaufen have all the documents in order you will be notified via email that your application was submitted (Bescheinigung). accepted (Bescheinigung). (Bescheinigung).