How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
If you decide to move to Germany from a country or US state that has reciprocity with Germany then you can exchange your license. In some cases you may require passing a theory and practical exam.
Prices vary and you should shop around! Also, make certain to choose an accredited driving school.
What is a driving permit?
A driving license is a document that allows you to operate the vehicle. It contains information like your name, your father's name and date of birth. It also contains the types of vehicles you are permitted to drive, an emergency contact number fingerprints, blood group and a photo of the driver. The driving license also comes with a magnetic strip though this is not yet used.
If you decide to take driving tests in Germany, you will need to pass both a theoretical and a practical test. The driving test typically lasts approximately 45 minutes, and is administered by a certified examiner. The examiner will ask you questions regarding German road signs and rules, as well as some general information. After the exam the examiner will inform you directly if you passed or failed. If you pass, you'll receive a certificate that allows you to drive for a few weeks until you can get your license.
The most important thing to keep in mind when taking the driving test is to relax and remain calm. The most common reason that people fail their driving test is because they are scared and forget the rules of the road. It's important to practice as much driving as you can prior to taking your driving test, especially when the driving rules in your country differ.
If you're in Germany for a short period and you're driving a car, your license from your home country may suffice. However, if you are moving to Germany permanently you'll need a new license. Many countries have reciprocal agreements and you can exchange your license for a Fuhrerschein once you register your address in Germany.
However, you must first present certificates attesting to your health and eyesight. You must also complete driving lessons at an German Fahrschule and take both the theory and practical tests to be granted a license. This can be costly however it's the only way to legally drive the vehicle in Germany. This search engine will help you find English-speaking driving instructors on the internet.
How do I obtain a German driving license?
führerschein kaufen might be able exchange your driving license for an Fuhrerschein without having to pass a theoretical test or a practical test if you reside in an agreed-upon nation with Germany. The exact procedure varies from country to country and you should check with the local driving office for the most current information. In general, you'll have to declare your residency and provide proof that prove you are healthy and have a clear vision. In certain instances, you could also be required to provide certificates attesting your license has not been suspended or removed.
If you're from Australia or New Zealand you can exchange your license without having to pass any tests. If you're from South Australia, Tasmania, or Victoria however you'll have to pass a theory and practical test to obtain a full license.
For those who come from an area that doesn't have an agreement with Germany or the United States, the process of getting the German driving license is more difficult. In the majority of cases, you'll need to take a course at a driving school and pass a theoretical and practical test before you can receive an Fuhrerschein. You'll also have to register your car and take the first aid course.
You'll need to make an appointment at your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and present all of your required documents. You'll be sent a confirmation letter after your appointment. It will let you know when you can pick-up your German driving license. It could take anywhere from four to six weeks for your application to be processed.
If you already have a German license, it is valid for 15-years. You can renew your license if it's close to expiring by presenting a passport photograph and your driving license to the local licensing authority. You'll have to pay a small fee, usually around EUR24. It is essential to inform your licensing authority immediately when you lose your German driver's license. This will prevent fraudulent use of your identity and/or illegal activities. You'll need to submit an official letter that states you will return the license if found.
Can I obtain a German driving license if I already have an international license?
If you are a holder of an driving license issued by one of the countries in the EU, EEA, or one that has a reciprocity agreement you can exchange it to obtain a German license without taking any tests in theory or on the road. This is usually only possible if been driving for a long period of time and have established a regular residency in Germany and have registered your residence address with the authorities.
In this situation you'll be required to prove your identity and a current passport photograph. Also, you will need to register your vehicle with the authorities and pass a safety test (TUV). In Germany you are also required to be insured for your car. More details can be found on our page about driving in Germany.
In general, you are able to keep your driving license for only 15 years. It is recommended to renew your licence at least four weeks prior to the expiration date. This will allow you enough time to complete the application. Bring your current driving license, renewal form and a current passport photograph with you.
The requirements for transferring your foreign driving license may vary based on where you live. If you're not sure then we suggest you contact the local office for driver's licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) for more specific details.
You'll need a duplicate of the original document, a signed statement (or theft report) as well as the passport photo. Then you'll need to take a written and/or practical driving test, as well being able to pass a medical test.
During the driving test, which is a practical one, you'll be asked questions regarding traffic laws in Germany. You'll then be given the opportunity to show your driving skills on a public roadway. If you pass, you'll receive your new German driving licence a few weeks later.
Can I get a German license if I already have a US driving license?
The rules differ based on the state where you obtained your license. In the US every state has its own set of regulations regarding driver licenses. In Massachusetts, for example, drivers with valid German license are able to drive in the USA up to one-year without having to change their US driving licenses or have them amended.
For those who plan to stay in the USA for longer than this period, or who will return to Germany as resident, it's recommended to obtain an international driver's license when you are there. If you don't, you'll need to exchange your American driving license for a German one when you visit the Fuhrerscheinstelle in Germany.
You can find information about the process and the documentation required in Anlage 11 of the German Federal Road Traffic Act (Standard-Fahrzeugsteuergesetz, SFTG). The Anlage contains a list of countries and states where a driver's license from the country is transferable without retaking the driving test. It includes Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Minnesota, North Carolina, Nebraska, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia.
If you are not from a country or state that is listed in the Anlage 11, or you would like to obtain an alternative class of license, you'll need to complete the entire course of instruction and be able to pass all tests. This includes taking a driving course as well as taking theory classes, passing a multiple-choice test and a test of practical to demonstrate that you are aware of the guidelines of driving and that you are able to handle a vehicle. The driving test is conducted by an expert examiner. The cost of the theory and driving classes will differ, but it can be anywhere from a few hundred dollars to two thousand euros.
You will also have to obtain mandatory car insurance. Prices will differ from one company to another. Compare quotes online. Some of the largest companies in Germany include DA Direkt and ADAC.