How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
You can change your license if you are moving to Germany from another country or state in the US with reciprocity. In some instances, you may have to pass a theoretical and practical exam.
Prices can vary, so make sure to shop around. Choose a driving school that is reliable.
What is a driver's licence?
A driving license is a document that allows you to operate an automobile. It includes information like your name, father's name date of birth, address, vehicle types, emergency contact, fingerprint impression, and driver photo. The driving license also comes with a magnetic strip though this is not yet being used.
When you take an exam for driving in Germany you'll need to pass both a theoretical and practical test. The driving test typically lasts approximately 45 minutes and is administered by a qualified examiner. The examiner will also ask general questions and ask about German road signs, regulations, and other information. After the test, the examiner will tell you in person whether you passed or failed. If you succeed you will be given an authorization slip that allows you to drive until you can get your license within a few weeks.
If you are taking your driving test, the most important thing to do is to be calm and relaxed. The most common reason that people fail the driving exam is because they are scared and don't know the rules of the road. It is important to practice as much driving as you can prior to the driving test, particularly if the driving rules in your country are different.
If you're only in Germany for only a short time the driving license from your home country should suffice. If you're planning to move permanently to Germany then you'll require a new driving license. Most countries have reciprocal agreements and you can exchange your license for the Fuhrerschein once you register your address in Germany.
You need to submit your first certificate that confirm your health and vision. You must also complete driving lessons at a German Fahrschule, and be able to pass both the theoretical and practical tests before you are able to receive your license. It can be costly however it's the only way to legally operate a car in Germany. You can locate driving schools in English online using this search aggregator.
How do I obtain a German driving license?
You might be able exchange your driving license to a Fuhrerschein without needing to pass a theory test or a practical test if reside in an agreed-upon country with Germany. The procedure for doing this differs from one country to another and you should check with your local driving office for up-to-date details. In general, you will be required to verify your residency and provide documents that prove you are healthy and have a clear and sharp vision. In certain instances, you could also be required to submit certificates attesting that your license is not suspended or removed.
For instance, if from Australia or New Zealand, you can change your license to one of a German one without having to pass any tests. If you're from South Australia or Tasmania, however, a theory and practical exam is required in order to obtain an all-inclusive driving license.
For those who come from an area that doesn't have an agreement with Germany or the United States, the process of obtaining a German driving license is more difficult. In the majority of instances, you'll have to complete a course in a driving school and pass a theory and practical exam before you can obtain an Fuhrerschein. You'll also need to sign up your car and take a first aid course.
You'll need to make an appointment at your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and bring all the required documents. You'll be sent a confirmation letter after your appointment. It will tell you when you'll be able to pick-up your German driving license. It could take anywhere from four to six weeks for your application to be processed.
Once you have the German driving license, it's valid for 15 years. If it's coming up for expiration you can renew it by bringing your driver's license along with a passport photograph to the local licensing authority. A small amount of EUR24 is required. If you have lost your German driving license, it's best to contact your licensing authority immediately to prevent unauthorized use of your name and/or illegal activities. You'll need to submit an official letter that states you will return the license if it is found.
Can I apply for a German license even if I already have a foreign driving license?
If you hold a license issued by an EU or EEA country or a country that has a specific reciprocity agreement with Germany and Germany, then you can usually exchange your foreign driving license for one German one without taking any practical or theoretical tests. kaufen führerschein is generally only possible if been driving for a long period of time, have established normal residency in Germany and have registered your residential address with the authorities.
You will still be required to show proof of your identity and a passport photograph. You will also have to register your vehicle with the authorities, and pass a safety check (TUV). In Germany you also need to be insured for your car. More information about this on our page about driving in Germany.
In general, you are able to keep your driving license for just 15 years. If you're nearing the end of its validity you must arrange an appointment with the local driver licensing office at minimum four weeks in advance to renew it. This gives you enough time to complete all required documentation. Bring your current driving license, renewal form and a recent passport photo with you.
The requirements for exchanging your foreign driving license can vary depending the location you reside in. If you're not sure then we suggest you get in touch with the local office for driver's licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) for more personalized details.
If you're looking to exchange a foreign licence to one of a German one, you will need to provide a written statement or theft report (as well as the original document) and a valid passport photo. You'll also have to pass a medical exam and a written or practical driving test.
During the practical test you will be asked about traffic laws in Germany. Then you will be required to demonstrate your driving abilities on a highway that is public. If you're successful, you will be issued a new German driving licence a few weeks later.
Can I obtain a German license in the event that I already have an US driving license?
The rules vary based on the state where you obtained your license. The US is a nation where each state has jurisdiction over driver licensing, so each state is able to establish its own rules. In Massachusetts, for example drivers who have a valid German license are able to drive in the USA up to one-year without needing to change their US driving licenses or amend them.
It is suggested that those planning to stay in the USA for a longer period or who are planning on returning to Germany as a permanent resident pick up an International Driver's License while in the United States. If you don't, you'll need to exchange your American driving license to 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 includes the states and countries where drivers' licenses from the country is transferable without retaking a driving test. The list 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 do not come from a country or state that is listed in Anlage 11 or you wish to take a different license, you have to complete the course of instruction and pass the tests. This includes taking a driving course as well as taking the theory course and passing a multiple-choice examination and a test of practical to prove that you understand the guidelines of driving and that you are able to manage a vehicle. The driving test is administered by an expert examiner. The cost for theory and driving lessons could range from a few hundred euros to a couple of thousand euros.
You are also required to purchase mandatory auto insurance. Prices will vary from company to company. Compare prices online. Some of the major companies in Germany include DA Direkt and ADAC.