How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is an asset that is valuable not just because it is a top-quality licence with high standards however, its recognition is widespread throughout Europe. It is therefore not uncommon for expats to want to exchange their current licence for one from a German one when their EU / EEA driving license expires.
What are the requirements?
There are many requirements to buying the German driving license, which includes the type of vehicle you'd like to drive and your age. You must be 18 years old to get an official driver's license of class B, which is required for the majority of passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also apply for a class C or E license if you want to drive heavy vehicles, such as trucks and buses or a class T license for agricultural or forestry tractors. In some cases you will need to pass an oral or written test before being able to take a test.
Citizens of certain countries can change their licenses to one of a German one without taking an exam. 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'll need to pass the written test and the practical test if not from one these countries. In some instances, you may also need to pass a medical exam and an eye 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. But generally you'll need to bring proof of insurance as well as your foreign driving license, along with a letter from either your city or employer stating that you've relocated to Germany. You may also be required to submit a picture.
The cost of the driving exam varies according to the area you reside in Germany. However it's usually less than EUR100. After you've passed the written and practical tests then your German driving license should be available for pick-up within some weeks.
It's important to understand the requirements for the German license because many expats require one to legally drive in Germany. Taking public transportation can be a hassle and uncomfortable for those living in rural areas, especially in the winter months, so having a car is often necessary.
How do I apply for a German driving license?
If you have a driving licence from a different country within the European Union (EU) or from a country recognized by Germany as having reciprocity in full or partial form, you can convert your licence to one of a German one without taking any tests. You can complete this process by arranging an appointment with the local authority for driver's licenses or the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring your original license along with a proof of identity and a passport photograph. In most cases, you will be able to pick up your German driving license in 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 to obtaining an German license. To obtain a German license you must verify your address of residence and complete the German test for language proficiency, which can be taken by a private institution or at the local language center.
The process of obtaining an German driving license can take some time, but it is essential to be safe to drive on the road. It can also make renting a car a lot easier since some rental agencies require an German driving license. Driving in Germany is a serious issue and should be treated accordingly.
It is recommended to enroll in driving classes and get a driving lesson. This will help you become more comfortable before taking your test. The website Farschule123 allows users to search for a driving school by location and vehicle type. A lot of driving schools offer classes in various languages.
Renewal of your German driving licence is simple. Make an appointment with your local driving license authority at least four weeks prior to the date the expiration date of your license. You'll need your license, a recent passport photograph and pay a small amount of about 24 euros. Then your new driving license will be ready for you to collect in about four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
It is possible to get a German driver's licence without having to take the theory or practical test due to the reciprocity arrangement. However, most foreigners would be better off starting at the beginning. This involves going through the Fahrschule (driving school) and paying a substantial amount.
eu führerschein kaufen erfahrungen can find driving schools across the country. They provide a broad variety of courses, from a basic course in cars to a truck or bus license. You can also enroll in classes in your native language. Some schools charge less than others. Checking online and asking around reviews is the best way to find the right driving school.
The process of converting an American driving licence to an German driving license could take between two and six months depending on whether you have a reciprocity agreement or not. If you do not have one, you must translate your driver's licence into German to be done by a certified translator or a recognised automobile organization. In addition, you can submit the KBA registry extract from your country of birth to prove of residency.
After you have all the required 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 car while being asked questions. You will get your driving license within a few days after passing.
If you fail the test, you will have to repeat the whole process with another instructor and pay the fee. You must also prove that you 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). In this case you'll need an original drivers' license and a medical certificate. You must also submit a certified translation your passport and photo identification.
Can I swap my driving license from a foreign country to get one in Germany? German license?
If you're moving to a state or country that has a reciprocity agreement with Germany the process of transferring your license for one that is a German one is relatively simple. 27 states, including New York and California, have this agreement. This means that if you are able to show your driver's license from these states, you won't be required to take the written or road test here in Germany which will permit you to obtain a full German driver's license. You'll need to present your current driver's license, proof of identity (usually a passport or a national ID card) and a recent photo. The exact requirements differ between the federal states (Lander) and so it is recommended to inquire with the local authority responsible for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) prior to making an appointment.
You only have to exchange your license for a German one within the first six months of residency. If you fail to do this, it could be considered a violation of your residency permit and authorities may decide to take action against you. If you plan to use car-sharing services most of which require a European or German license and this is an additional reason to get the process started and work towards getting your German license.
Those who move to Germany from outside the EU/EEA can keep their driver's license for a period of up to 12 months after they register their address. They must, however, have it translated by a sworn translation, a recognized internationally automotive organisation, or a licensed interpreter. This is a vital step as many insurance companies will not offer insurance to drivers outside of the EU/EEA region without an official 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 in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need your current license as well as an official German translation of your license, a copy of your driving history from your country of origin, and evidence of identity. You will also be required to pay a fee of around EUR35 that you can pay in cash or with an electronic transfer to a bank. You will receive a confirmation via mail once you have provided all the required documents.