How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
If you move to Germany from a country or US state that has reciprocity with Germany then you can exchange your license. In some instances, you may require passing a theory and practical test.
Prices can vary, so make sure you shop around. Choose a driving school that is well-known.
What is a driver's licence?
A driving license is a document that allows you to drive an automobile. It contains information like your name along with your father's name, as well as date of birth. It also includes the authorized vehicle types you are allowed to drive as well as an emergency contact number, blood group, fingerprints and a driver's photo. The driving licence also includes a magnetic strip though this is not yet in use.
When you take a driving exam in Germany you'll have to pass both a theoretical and a practical test. deutschen führerschein legal kaufen driving test usually lasts 45 minutes and is administered by a qualified examiner. The examiner will ask you questions about German road signs and rules, as well as some general knowledge. After the exam, the examiner will tell you straight away whether you passed or failed. If you succeed you will be given a slip allowing you to drive until you are able to get your license a few weeks later.
If you are taking your driving test, the most important thing is to remain calm and relaxed. The most common reason people fail their driving test is because they panic and don't know the rules of the road. It's important to learn as much driving as possible before your driving exam, especially when the driving regulations in your country are different.
If you're in Germany for a brief time the driving license from your home country may suffice. If you're planning to permanently move to Germany and you're moving to Germany for a long time, you'll need an updated driving license. Many countries have reciprocal agreements and you can exchange your license for the Fuhrerschein once you register your address in Germany.
You have to present your first certificates attesting your health and vision. You must also take driving lessons at a German Fahrschule and take both the theory and practical tests before you can be granted a license. It's expensive, but it is the only way to legally drive a vehicle in Germany. You can locate driving schools in English on the internet using this search aggregator.
How do I apply for a German driving license?
You might be able exchange your driving license for a Fuhrerschein without having to pass a theory test or practical test if you are a resident of an agreement 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 proof that prove you're healthy and have a clear and sharp vision. In certain instances, you could also be required to present certificates attesting your license is not 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 or Tasmania, however it is necessary to pass a theory and practice exam is required to obtain an all-inclusive driving license.
If you're from an area that doesn't have an agreement with Germany or the United States, the process of getting a German driving license is more difficult. In the majority of instances, you'll have to take a course at an driving school and pass a theory and practical test before you can obtain a Fuhrerschein. You'll need to register your car and complete the first-aid training.
You'll have to schedule an appointment at your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and bring all the necessary documentation. You'll be sent a confirmation letter after your appointment. It will inform you when you can pick-up your German driving license. It can take four to six weeks for the application to be processed.
If you already have an German license, it is valid for 15-years. You can renew your license if it is nearing expiration by bringing a passport photo along with your driving license to the local licensing authority. You'll need to pay an amount that is usually around EUR24. It is essential to inform your licensing authority immediately when you lose your German driver's license. This will stop fraudulent use of your identity and/or unauthorised activities. You will need to submit an official letter that states you will return the license in the event of being found.
Can I obtain a German driving license if I already have a foreign license?
If you hold a license issued by an EU or EEA country, or a country that has a special reciprocity agreement with Germany, then you can usually swap your driving license from a foreign country for one German one without taking any theoretical and practical exams. This is generally only possible if you've been driving for a long time, have established normal residency in Germany and have registered your residence address with the authorities.
You'll still have to show proof of identity and a passport picture. You will also need to register your vehicle with authorities and pass a safety test (TUV). In Germany you also need to have insurance for your car. More details can be found on our page about driving in Germany.
In general, you can only keep your driver's licence for 15 years. You must renew your license at least four weeks prior to the expiration date. This will allow you time to complete the necessary paperwork. Bring your current driver's license, renewal form and a current passport photograph with you.
The exact requirements for exchanging a foreign driving licence can differ based on the federal state where you reside. If you're not sure about the requirements, you can call your local driver's license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). They will be able to provide more details.
When you're applying to exchange a foreign licence for one of a German one, you'll require an unwritten statement or theft report (as well as the original document) and a valid passport photo. You'll also need to pass a medical exam as well as a written or practical driving test.
During the practical driving test You'll be asked questions regarding traffic laws in Germany. Then, you'll be asked to show your driving skills on a public road. You'll receive your new German licence within a few days in the event that you pass.
Can I get a German driving license if I already have a US license?
The rules vary based on the state where you obtained your license. The US is a country where each state has jurisdiction over driver licensing, so each state is able to establish its own rules. For instance, in Massachusetts, people who have an active German driving license can drive in the USA for up to a year without requiring an exchange or having their US licenses changed.
If you plan to stay in the USA for longer than this period, or who will return to Germany as resident, it's recommended to get an international driver's license while in the USA. If you do not, when you visit the Fuhrerscheinstelle (driving license authority) in Germany, you will have to hand over your American license in exchange for an German licence.
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 a list of countries and states where a driver's license issued by this country can be transferred without having to retake the 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 are not from a country or state that is listed in Anlage 11 or you wish to obtain an alternative license, you have to complete the instruction course and be able to pass the tests. This includes taking a driving school as well as taking the theory course and passing a multiple-choice examination, and a practical test to demonstrate that you are aware of the guidelines of driving and that you are able to operate a car. The driving test is conducted by an experienced examiner. The cost of the theory and driving classes will vary, but could run anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand euros.
You will also be required to purchase mandatory auto insurance. Prices will vary from company to company. Compare quotes online. Some of the largest companies in Germany are DA Direkt and ADAC.