How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is an asset that is valuable not only because it has high standards, but also because its recognition is widespread across Europe. It is therefore not uncommon for expats to to exchange their current license for a German one once their EU or EEA driving license expires.
What are the requirements for the application?
There are many requirements to buying the German driving license, including the kind of vehicle you wish to drive and the age. To obtain a class-B driver's license, you must be 18 years old. This is the minimum age for the majority of passenger cars and small commercial vehicles. You can also apply for an E or class C license if you plan to drive heavy vehicles like trucks and buses, or a class T license for forestry or agricultural tractors. You may be required to pass an oral or written test in some cases before you can sit for the test in the practical.
Some countries allow their citizens to swap their licenses for one that is a German one without the requirement of passing 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.
You will need to pass a written test and a practical test if you are not from one these countries. In certain cases, you may also need to pass a medical examination and vision 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 the city stating that you have relocated to Germany and a proof of insurance, and your foreign license. You may need to include photos.
The cost of the driving test will vary based on the location you reside in Germany. However it's usually less than EUR100. Once you've passed the practical and written tests and passed the written test, your German driving license will be available for pick-up within some weeks.
It is essential to know the requirements of the German driving license, since many expats must have one to drive legally in the country. It isn't easy to use public transportation in rural areas and during severe weather. Car ownership will help.
How do I get a German driving license?
If you hold a driving license from another country in the European Union (EU) or from a country that is recognized by Germany as having reciprocity in full or partial form, you can convert your license to one that is a German one without having to take any tests. You can complete this process by arranging an appointment with the local driver's licensing authority, also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need the original license as well as a form of identification and a passport photograph. In most cases, you will be able to pick up your German driving licence within four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland or Andorra, you can use it for up to six months prior getting an German license. To obtain this you must first register your address and take a German language exam which can be completed at a local language centre or a private language school.
The process of obtaining a German driving license can take a bit of time however, it is essential to be competent to drive safely on the road. Additionally, it can make renting a car much easier, since some rental companies might require you to hold a German license. Driving in Germany is a serious matter and should be treated accordingly.
It is suggested that you enroll in a driving school and get some practice behind the wheel to aid you in feeling more comfortable during your exam. Farschule123 is a website that allows users to search for driving schools by location and vehicle type. A lot of driving schools offer theory classes in different languages.
Renewing your German driving license is easy. Schedule an appointment with your local driving licensing office at minimum four weeks before the expiration date of your license. You will be required to bring your driving licence and a passport photograph taken recently, and pay a modest amount of 24 euros. Then, your new driving licence will be available for you to pick up within four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
It is possible to obtain a German driver's licence without having to take the practical or theory test, thanks to a reciprocity arrangement. However, führerschein kaufen legal of foreigners would be better off starting from the beginning. This requires completing a Fahrschule (driving school for drivers) and paying a significant sum of money.
Driving schools are available across the country and offer a variety of courses, ranging from a basic car course to a truck, bus or passenger transport licence. They will also be able to give you theory classes in your own language. The cost can vary considerably in some places, 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 licence to an German driving license could take between two and six months based on whether you have a reciprocity contract or not. If you don't have one, you must translate your driver's license in German to be done by a sworn translator or a recognised automobile organization. As an alternative, you could submit the KBA registry extract in your country of birth as proof of residency.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you will need to take a practical test. During the exam, the driving instructor will be in the front seat and you will drive the vehicle while being asked questions. You will get your driving license a few days after passing.
If you fail the test in the exam, you'll need to repeat the entire process with a different instructor and pay the fee. Additionally, you will be required to prove that you have passed 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 case you'll need an official driver's licence that has been translated and medical certificate. You must also submit a certified translation your passport along with a photocard.
Can I exchange my driving license from another country to get one in Germany? German license?
If you're moving from a country or state that has a reciprocity deal with Germany It is easy to exchange your license to one from Germany. This agreement is in force with 27 states that include New York, California and others. If you have an driving license from one of these states, then you won't need to take an examination in the form of a written or driving test in Germany. You can get your full German license. You'll need your current driver's license, proof of your identity (usually an original passport or national ID card) and a picture that was taken recently. The requirements for each state (Lander) vary therefore it is advisable 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 month of your residency. If you do not do this, it could be considered a violation to your residency permit and the authorities may decide to take action against you. If you're planning to use car-sharing services, most of which require a European or German license This is a further reason to get this process started and work towards getting your German license.
People who move to Germany from outside the EU/EEA can keep their driver's license for a maximum of 12 months after they register 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 an important step as many insurance companies won't offer insurance to drivers outside of 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 at the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will require your current license, an official German translation of your license, your driving record from your country of origin, and proof of identity. You will also have to pay a fee of about EUR35 that you can pay cash or via the transfer of funds from a bank. You will receive a confirmation via mail after you have submitted all the required documents.