How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving licence is a valuable asset, not only due to its high standards however, its recognition is widespread throughout Europe. Foreigners often want to swap their EU/EEA driving licence for the German license once it expires.
What are the requirements?
You must meet a number of conditions before you can purchase a German license. This includes the type of vehicle that you want to drive and your age. To get a class B driver's license, you have to be at least 18 years old. This is the minimum age for the majority of passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also obtain an E or class C license if you want to drive heavy vehicles like buses and trucks, or a class T license for agricultural or forestry tractor. You may have to pass an oral or written test in certain situations before you can sit for the test in the practical.
Some countries permit their citizens to exchange their licenses for one that is a German one, without having to pass a test. This applies 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 the written test and the practical test if not from one of these countries. In some instances, you may also need to pass a medical exam and vision test.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact procedure varies. In general you'll be required to present proof of insurance as well as your foreign driving license, as well as a letter from either your employer or city stating that you have relocated to Germany. You may also need to bring an image.
The cost of the driving test varies according to where you live in Germany however, it's generally less than EUR100. After you've passed the practical and written tests then your German driving license will be available for pick-up within some weeks.
It is essential to understand the requirements for a German license since many foreigners will require one to legally drive in the country. It isn't easy to use public transportation in rural areas, and during bad weather. Car ownership could simplify the process.
How do I obtain a German driving license?
You can convert a driving license from an EU country or one recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to an German license without taking any tests. This process can be completed by making an appointment at your local driver's licensing authority, called the Fuhrerscheinstelle. Fuehrerscheinn 'll need your original licence along with a proof of identity and a passport photograph. In the majority of instances, your 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 can use it for up to six months before you can apply for a German license. To obtain a German license you must verify your address of residence and pass the German test for language proficiency, which can be taken at a private school or at the local language center.
It may take some time to obtain an German license however, it's essential to be competent to drive safely on the roads. It also makes renting a car easier, because some rental companies require an German driving license. It is crucial to keep in mind that driving in Germany is a serious business and should be treated as such.
It is recommended to sign up for driving lessons and practice behind the wheels. This will help you become more comfortable before taking your test. You can locate a driving school through the website Farschule-123 that lets you filter by area and the type of vehicle. Many driving schools also offer theory classes in different languages.
Renewing your German driving license is a simple process. Make an appointment with your local licensing authority at least four weeks prior to the date your licence expires. You'll need to bring your license, a recent passport photo, and pay a small fee of around 24 euros. Your new driving license will be issued in four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
Although it is possible to get an driver's license in Germany without taking the theory or practical test thanks to a reciprocity arrangement, the majority of expats should consider starting from scratch. This means attending a driving school and spending a significant amount of money.
You can find driving schools across the country. They offer a broad variety of courses, from a basic car course to a truck or bus license. You can also enroll in classes in your native language. Some schools charge less than others. Asking around and checking online reviews is the best method to find the most suitable driving school.
The process of converting an American driving license to one that is a German one could take between two and six months, depending on the availability of the driving school and if you have a reciprocity agreement. If not then you will need to translate your driver's license into German to be done by a certified translator or a recognized automobile organization. As an alternative, you can 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 passenger's seat as you drive the vehicle and answer questions. If you pass, you'll be able to get your driving licence a few weeks later.
If you fail the test in the exam, you'll need to repeat the whole process with another instructor and pay the fee. In addition, you'll need to prove that you passed a medical exam and, if necessary, show 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 an official driver's licence that has been translated and a medical certificate. You will also be required to submit a certified translation and a photocopy of your passport.
Can I exchange my foreign driving license to get a German license?
If you're moving to one of the states or countries which has a reciprocity arrangement with Germany, it is relatively easy to exchange your license to one from Germany. Twenty-seven states, including New York and California, have this agreement. This means that if you show 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 get 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 a national ID card) and a recent photograph. The requirements for each federal state (Lander) vary, so it is best to verify the local authority for your driving license (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before making an appointment.
You will only need to exchange your license within the first six month of your residency. If you do not, you could be deemed to be in violation of your residency permit. The authorities could take action against you. If you are planning on using car-sharing services, many of which require a European or German license This is a further reason to get the process underway and begin working towards obtaining your German license.
Those who are moving to Germany from outside the EU/EEA region can continue to utilize their driver's licence for up to a year after they have registered their address. However, they must have it translated into German by a certified translator, an internationally recognized automobile organization or a licensed translator. This is a crucial step as a lot of insurance companies won't cover 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)". This can be done online, over the phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need to bring your current license, an official translation of the license into German, your driver's history from your home country and proof of identity. Additionally, you will need to pay a fee that is about EUR35. This can be paid in cash or through a bank transfer. You will receive a confirmation mail once you have submitted all the required documents.