How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving licence is an asset that is valuable not only due to its high standards, but also because its recognition is widely spread across Europe. It is therefore not uncommon for expats to want to exchange their current license to one from a German one once their EU or EEA driving license expires.
What are the requirements?
You must meet several prerequisites before you can get a German license. These include the type of vehicle you want to drive and your age. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain an official driver's license of class B that is required for all passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also obtain 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 need 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 swap their licenses for licenses that are 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.
If you're not from one of these countries, then you'll be required to pass a written and practical test before getting an German driver's license. In some cases, you may also need to pass a medical exam and a vision test.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The process for applying varies in each case, but you'll need an official letter from your employer or the city stating that you've moved to Germany and a proof of insurance, as well as your foreign license. You may also be required to submit a picture.
The cost of the driving test is dependent on where you live in Germany. However it's typically less than EUR100. After you've passed both the written test and practical test and have passed both tests, your German driving licence should be ready for collection within several days.
It's crucial to understand the requirements for the German driving license, since many foreigners are required to have one to legally drive in the country. Public transportation can be difficult and inconvenient for those living in rural areas, particularly in bad weather, which is why having a vehicle is often necessary.
How do I obtain a German driving license?
If you hold a driver's 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 the possibility of converting your license to a German one without taking any tests. This process can be completed by booking an appointment at your local driver's license authority which is also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring your original licence as well as a proof of identification and a passport photograph. In the majority of instances your German licence will be ready for you to pick up in about 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 the German license. To obtain a German license you must register your residence address and pass an German language test that can be taken at a private school or at the local language center.
It may take some time to get the German license however it is a must to be able to safely drive on the roads. Additionally, it can make renting a car much easier, since some rental companies may require an German license. kann man den führerschein kaufen is crucial to keep in mind that driving in Germany is a serious business and should be treated as such.
It is suggested to take a driving class and practice driving. This will help you become more confident when you take your test. You can locate driving schools through Farschule-123 that lets you sort by location and the type of vehicle. In addition there are many driving schools that offer classes in a variety of languages.
Renewing your German driving license is simple. Schedule an appointment with the office of your local driving license at minimum four weeks before the expiration date of your license. You'll need to bring your driving licence, a current passport photo and pay a small fee of approximately 24 euros. Then, your new driving licence will be ready to collect in about four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
It is possible to get the German driver's license without having to take the theory or practical test, thanks to an arrangement of reciprocity. However, most foreigners would be better off starting from the beginning. This requires completing a Fahrschule (driving school for drivers) and paying a significant amount of money.
You can find driving schools across the country. They provide a broad range of courses starting from a basic driving instruction in cars to a truck or bus license. They will also be able to give you theory classes in your language. Some schools charge less than others. Doing some research and reading online reviews is the best way to locate the right driving school.
The process of converting an American driving license to one that is a German one can take between two and 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 a reciprocity arrangement, you will need a translator to translate your license into German. This can be done either by a sworn translation or an automobile association. Alternately, you can submit a registry extract from the KBA in the country of origin as proof of residency.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you'll have to attend a practical exam. During the practical exam the instructor is in the passenger's seat while you drive your vehicle and you must answer questions. You will receive your driving license a few days after passing.
If you fail the test, you'll have to take the test again with a different instructor and pay an additional fee. You'll also have to show that you have completed the medical examination and, if needed, 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 the driver's license in a translation as well as a medical certificate in this case. Additionally, you will need to present a certified translation of your passport along with a photocard.
Can I exchange my foreign license for a German one?
If you're moving to a country or state with a reciprocity agreement with Germany, it is relatively simple to swap 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 pass the road or written test in Germany and will be able to allow you to obtain a complete German driver's license. You will be required to present your current driver's license as well as identification proof (usually a passport or national ID card) and a recent photo. The exact requirements differ among the states that are federal (Lander) and therefore it is best to consult the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before making an appointment.
You only have to exchange your license to one of a German one within the first six months of residence. If you fail to do so, it will be considered a violation of your residency permit and authorities could decide to take action against you. If you plan to use car-sharing services the majority of which require an European or German license and this is an additional reason to get the process started and work towards getting your German license.
Those who are moving to Germany from outside of the EU/EEA region can continue to use their driver's license for up to one year after they have registered their address. However they must have it translated into German by a certified translator or an internationally recognized auto organization or a licensed translator. This is a crucial step, since many insurance companies will not 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)". This can be completed online, over the phone or at the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will need to provide your current license, a translation of the license into German as well as your driver's license from your country of origin and proof of identity. You will also have to pay a fee of around EUR35 which you can pay in cash or with a bank transfer. Once you have all of the required documents, you will receive confirmation by mail that your application was submitted (Bescheinigung). submitted (Bescheinigung).