How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a vital and valuable asset, not just because of its strict standards, but also because it is recognized across Europe. It is therefore not uncommon for expats to to exchange their current license for one that is a German one when their EU or EEA driving license expires.
What are the requirements?
There are many requirements to purchasing the German driving license, such as the type of vehicle you'd like to drive as well as your age. You must be 18 years old in order to obtain an official driver's license of class B, which is required for most passenger vehicles as well as small commercial vehicles. You can also get a class C or E license if you want to drive heavy vehicles, such as trucks and buses, or a class T license for forestry or agricultural tractor. You may have to pass an written or oral test in some cases before you are able to take the practical exam.
Certain countries allow citizens to exchange their licenses with one that is a German one, without having to pass a test. published here 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 have to pass an exam written and a practical test if not from one of these countries. In certain cases, you'll 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 varies. However, generally speaking you'll be required to present proof of insurance and your foreign driving license, along with an official letter from your employer or city stating that your have moved to Germany. You may also be required to provide a photo.
The cost of the driving exam varies according to the location you reside in Germany. However, it is 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 some weeks.
It's important to understand the requirements for a German license because many expats will require one to legally drive in the country. Taking public transportation can be a hassle and inconvenient for those living in rural areas, especially in bad weather, which is why having a vehicle is often necessary.
How do I get an German driver's license?
If you hold a driving license from another country in the European Union (EU) or from a country recognized by Germany as having reciprocity either in full or in part and you wish to convert your license to one that is a German one without having to take any exams. You can complete this process by booking an appointment at the local authority for driver's licenses which is also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need your original license along with a form or identification, and a passport photo. In most cases, you can pick up 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 months prior to obtaining the German license. To obtain a German license, you will need to register your residence address and complete a German test for language proficiency that can be taken at a private school or at the local language center.
Obtaining a German driving license can take a while but it's essential to be safe to drive on the road. In addition, it can help you rent a car easier, since some rental companies may require you to hold an German license. Driving in Germany is a serious issue and should be treated accordingly.
It is recommended that you enroll in a driving school and get some practice behind the wheel, as it will make you feel more at ease during your test. Farschule123 lets you to find driving schools by location and type of vehicle. Some driving schools also offer theory classes in different languages.
Renewal of your German driving license is simple. Make an appointment with your local driving licensing authority at least four weeks prior to when the expiration date of your license. You'll need to bring your license, a recent passport photo, and pay a small amount of around 24 euros. Your new driving licence will be in place within four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
It is possible to obtain an German driver's license without taking the practical or theory test, thanks to the reciprocity arrangement. However, the majority of expats should consider starting from the beginning. This involves attending a driving school and paying a large sum of money.
Driving schools are located across the country and offer a range of courses, ranging from an entry-level car course to a truck, bus or passenger transport license. They are also able to offer you a theory course in your native language. Some schools are cheaper than others. The best method to find the right driving school is to ask around and read online reviews.
The process of changing an American driving license to a German one can take anywhere from two to six months, depending on the availability of the driving school and if you have an agreement of reciprocity. If published here don't have a reciprocity agreement it is necessary to hire an interpreter to translate your license into German. This is done through a certified translation or by an automobile association. You can also submit an extract of the registry from the KBA in the country of origin as proof of residence.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you'll have to sit for a test. During the practical exam, the driving instructor sits in the passenger's seat while you drive the vehicle and answer questions. You will be issued your driving license a few days after passing.
If you fail the practical exam in the exam, you'll need to repeat the entire process with a different instructor, and pay the corresponding fee. You will also need to prove that you passed the medical exam and, if necessary 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). In this instance you will require a translated drivers' licence and medical certificate. You must also provide a certified translation of your passport as well as an image-based ID card.
Can I exchange my foreign license for one in Germany? German one?
If you're moving to a country or state which has a reciprocity arrangement with Germany it's relatively simple to swap your license to one from Germany. The agreement is in place with 27 states that include New York, California and other states. If you hold an driving license from one of these states, you won't need to take a written or road test in Germany. You will be able to get your full German license. You will be required to show your current driver's license, evidence of identity (usually an identity card or passport) ID card) as well as a recent photo. The requirements for each federal state (Lander) differ and it is recommended to confirm the requirements of your local authority for your driving license (Fuhrerscheinstelle), before booking an appointment.
You only have to exchange your license to one that is a German one within the first six months of residence. If you fail to do this, it will be considered a violation of your residency permit and the authorities could 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 crucial to begin the process and work towards getting your German licence.
People who are 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, have it translated by a sworn translation, an internationally recognized automotive organization or a certified interpreter. This is an important step since many insurance companies won't cover 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 done online, by phone or at the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will need to provide 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 of about EUR35 which you can either pay in cash or with an electronic transfer to a bank. You will receive a confirmation by mail once you have provided all the required documents.