How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a vital and valuable asset, not only because of its rigorous standards but additionally because it is recognised throughout Europe. Expats often want to change their driving licence from the EU/EEA for a German license once it expires.
What are the requirements?
There are several requirements to buying a German driving license, such as the type of vehicle you want to drive and your age. To get a class-B driver's license, you have to be 18 years old. This is the minimum age for the majority of passenger cars and small commercial vehicles. You can also get an E or class C license if you wish to drive heavy vehicles like trucks and buses, or a class T license for agricultural or forestry tractors. In certain instances you will have to pass a written or oral test before being allowed to take a practical test.
Certain countries allow citizens to exchange their licenses for one that is a German one without the requirement of passing an examination. This is applicable to citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area and certain states in the U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand. South Korea, Japan.
If you're not from one of these countries, you'll need to pass a written and a practical test before getting the German driver's license. In certain cases, you'll require an eye test and an examination for medical reasons.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact process varies, but generally, you'll need to bring a letter from your employer or city in which you've moved to Germany along with proof of insurance, and your foreign license. You may need to include a photograph.
The cost of the test depending on where you live in Germany however, it's usually less than EUR100. After you have passed both the written and practical test the German driving license should be ready for collection within several days.
It is essential to understand the requirements for the German license because many expats will require one to legally drive in the country. It isn't easy to use public transport in rural areas and during severe weather. Car ownership could simplify the process.
How do I obtain a German driver's license?
If you hold a driver's license from another country within the European Union (EU) or from a country recognized by Germany as having full or partial reciprocity, you can convert your licence to one of a German one without taking any tests. This process can be completed by arranging an appointment with your local authority for driver's licences, called the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need to bring the original license, a form or identification and a passport photograph. In most instances your German licence will be available to pick up in around 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 you can apply for the German license. In order to do so you must identify your residence address and pass an German language test, which can be taken at a private school or at the local language center.
Obtaining the German driving license can take a bit of time however, it is an essential step to be competent to drive safely on the road. In addition, it can make renting a car much easier, since some rental companies may require a German license. Driving in Germany is a serious issue and should be treated accordingly.
It is recommended to sign up for driving lessons and practice driving. This will help you become more comfortable before taking your test. The website Farschule123 allows you to search for driving schools by location and type of vehicle. A lot of driving schools offer theory classes in a variety of languages.
Renewal of your German driving license is easy. You should make an appointment at the local office for driving license renewal at least four weeks prior to the expiration date of your license. You'll need to bring your driving license, a passport photo taken recently and pay a tiny amount of 24 euros. Then your new driving licence will be available for you to pick up within four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
It is possible to get the German driver's license without having to pass the practical or theory test through a reciprocity arrangement. However, many expats would be better off starting at the beginning. This means going through a Fahrschule (driving school) and paying a significant amount of money.
Driving schools are available all over the world and offer a variety of courses, ranging from a basic car course to a truck, bus or passenger transport license. They are also able to offer you a theory course in your native language. The price can be a bit different in some places, with some charging less than others. Asking around and checking online reviews is the best method to find an appropriate driving school.
The process of changing an American driving license to one that is a German driving license can take between two and six months, based on whether you have a reciprocity arrangement or not. If not have one, you must translate your driver's license into German to be done by a sworn translator or a recognized automobile organization. As an alternative, you can present the KBA registry extract from your country of birth to prove of residency.
You will need to take a practical test once you have all the necessary documents. During this exam, the instructor will sit in the passenger seat and you will drive the car while being asked questions. If you pass, you will be able to pick up your driving licence after a few weeks.
If you fail the practical test, you'll need to take the test again with a different instructor and pay the fee. Additionally, you will be required to prove that you have completed a medical exam and, if required, show a certificate of good eye sight.
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). You'll need to submit the driver's license in a translation and a medical certificate in this instance. deutscher führerschein kaufen must also present a certified translation of your passport along with photo identification.
Can deutscher führerschein kaufen exchange my foreign driving license for a German license?
If you're moving to one of the states or countries which has a reciprocity arrangement with Germany It is easy to exchange your license to one from Germany. 27 states, including New York and California, have this agreement, meaning that if you show your driving license from these states, you will not be required to pass the road or written test here in Germany, which will allow you to obtain a full German driver's license. You'll need to present your current driver's license, proof of your identity (usually an authentic passport or national ID card) and a picture that was taken recently. The requirements for each federal state (Lander) vary, so it is best to confirm the requirements of your local driving license authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before making an appointment.
You are only required to change your license within the first six months of your residency. If you don't, it could be considered a violation of your residency permit. The authorities may decide to take action against you. If you plan to use car-sharing services, many of which require the use of a European or German license, this is even more reason to get this process started and work towards obtaining your German license.
People who are moving to Germany from outside the EU/EEA can continue to use their driver's license up to a year after they have registered their address. However, they must get it translated by a sworn translation, a globally recognized automotive organization or a licensed interpreter. This is a crucial step as most insurance companies won't offer insurance to drivers outside of the EU/EEA region without a 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)". You can make the appointment via the internet, by phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need your current license, a translation of the license into German, your driver's history from your country of origin and proof of identity. You will also be required to pay a fee of around EUR35 which you can pay cash or via an electronic transfer to a bank. You will receive a confirmation via mail once you have provided all the required documents.