How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
If you move to Germany from a foreign country or US state that has reciprocity with Germany then you can exchange your license. In certain situations, you might require passing a theory and practical test.
Prices vary, so shop around! Pick a driving school which is reputable.
What is a driving permit?
A driving license is a document that permits you to operate an automobile. It includes information like your name, father's name date of birth, address, authorized vehicle types, emergency contact blood group, fingerprint impression and driver's photograph. The driving license also comes with a magnetic strip though this is not yet used.
In order to pass the driving test in Germany, you must pass both the theory and practical tests. The driving exam usually lasts for about 45 minutes and is conducted by a certified examiner. The examiner will also ask you a few general questions and inquire about German road signs, regulations and other information. The examiner will let you know if you have passed or not after the exam. If you pass, you will be issued a certificate that permits you to drive for a few weeks until you can get your license.
When you take your driving test, the most important thing is to be calm and relaxed. The most common reason that people fail the driving test is because they panic and forget the rules of the road. It's also important to practice driving as much as possible prior to the actual test, especially if you are from a nation where the driving rules differ.
If you're in Germany for a short duration the driving license from your home country will probably suffice. If you're planning to move permanently to Germany and you're moving to Germany for a long time, you'll need a new license to drive. Most countries have reciprocal agreements, and you can exchange your license for the Fuhrerschein once you register your address in Germany.
However, you must first present certificates that prove your health and eyesight. It is also essential to take driving lessons with an approved German Fahrschule and pass both the practical and theoretical exams before you can get your license. It's expensive, but it is the only way you can legally drive a car in Germany. This search engine can help you find English-speaking driving instructors on the Internet.
How do I get a German driving license?
You might be able exchange your driving license to a Fuhrerschein without having to pass a theoretical test or a practical test if reside in an agreed-upon country with Germany. The exact procedure differs from country to country, and you should contact the local driving office for the most up-to date information. In general, you'll have to declare your residency and provide documents that prove you're healthy and have a clear vision. In certain instances, you could also be required to provide certificates attesting that your license has not been suspended or removed.
For instance, if from Australia or New Zealand, you can exchange your license for one of a German one without having to pass any tests. If you're from South Australia, Tasmania, or Victoria, however, you'll need to take an exam in theory and practice to get a full license.
For those who come from a country 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 need complete a course in driving school and pass a theoretical and practical exam before you can receive a Fuhrerschein. You'll also need to sign up your vehicle and complete a first aid course.
You'll need to make an appointment with your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and present all of your required documents. You'll receive a confirmation letter after your appointment that will inform you when you can pick-up your German driving license. It could take between four and six weeks for the application to be processed.
If you already have an German license, it's valid for 15 years. You can renew your license if it's nearing expiration by presenting a passport photograph and your driving licence to the local licensing authority. You'll have to pay a small fee, usually around EUR24. If you lose your German driving license, you should contact your licensing authority immediately to prevent unauthorized use of your name and/or illegal actions. deutscher eu führerschein kaufen 'll have to provide a letter stating that you will return your license in the event that it is discovered.
Can I obtain a German license if I already have a driver's license?
If you hold a driving license from a country in the EU, EEA, or a country with an agreement of reciprocity you can exchange it to obtain an German license without having to pass any practical or theory tests. This is generally only possible if you have been driving for a long time and have established a regular residency in Germany and have registered your address with the authorities.
In this situation you'll still be required to prove your identity and a recent passport photo. Also, you will need to register your car with authorities and pass a safety check (TUV). You should also get insurance for your vehicle, since it is obligatory in Germany. More information is available on our page on driving in Germany.
In general, you can keep your driving license for only 15 years. When you're getting close to the expiration date it is recommended to schedule an appointment with your local driver licensing office at least four weeks prior to renew it. This gives you enough time to complete all the necessary documentation. Bring your current driver's license, renewal form and a recent passport photo with you.
The requirements for exchanging your foreign driving license may differ depending on where you live. If you're not sure, we recommend that you contact your local driver's licensing office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) for more specific details.
If you're trying to exchange a foreign license to a German one, you'll need to provide a written statement or theft report (as as well as the original document) and an authentic passport photo. You'll also need to pass a medical exam as well as a written or practical driving test.
During the practical test, you'll be asked questions regarding traffic laws in Germany. Then, you'll be required to demonstrate your driving abilities on a highway that is public. You'll receive your new German licence in a couple of days when you've been successful.
Can I obtain a German license if I already have an US driving license?
The rules vary based on the place you got your license. In the US each state has its own set of regulations regarding driver licenses. For instance, in Massachusetts drivers with a valid German driving license can drive in the USA for a maximum of one year without requiring an exchange or having their US licenses amended.
It is highly recommended that those planning to stay in the USA for longer than the period or who will be returning to Germany as permanent residents get an International Driver's License during their stay there. If you don't have one, 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 list of countries and states where a driver's licence from that country can be transferred 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 which is listed in Anlage 11, or you are seeking a different type of license, you'll need to complete the entire course of instruction and be able to pass all tests. This involves signing up at a driving school, taking theory lessons and completing the written (multiple-choice) test, and an actual driving test in order to show that you know the rules of the road and can manage a car. The driving test is conducted by an experienced examiner. The cost of the theory and driving lessons will vary, but could be anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand euros.
You are also required to purchase auto insurance that is mandatory. The cost will differ from company to company. You can compare quotes on internet. Some of the biggest companies in Germany include DA Direkt and ADAC.