How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
You can change your license if you are moving to Germany from another state or country in the US with reciprocity. In some instances however, you could be required to take a practical and theory exam.
Prices can vary, so make sure you compare prices. Be sure to choose a reputable driving school.
What is a driver's permit?
visit here driving license is a document that allows you to operate a motor vehicle. 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 photo. The driving license also comes with magnetic strips, though this is not yet used.
To pass the driving test in Germany you must pass both the theoretical and practical tests. The driving test typically lasts approximately 45 minutes and will be conducted by a certified examiner. The examiner will also ask you some general questions and ask about German road signs, regulations and other information. The examiner will inform you if you have passed or not following the test. If you pass, you'll receive a certificate that permits you to drive for a few weeks until you can get your license.
The most important thing to keep in mind when taking the driving exam is to relax and remain calm. The most common reason people fail the driving test is because they are scared and don't know the rules of the road. It's also important to practice driving as much as you can before the actual exam, especially if you are from a country where the driving rules differ.
If you're only in Germany for a brief duration and you're driving a car, your license from your home country will probably suffice. If you're moving permanently to Germany, you will need an updated driving license. Fortunately, most countries have reciprocal agreements with Germany and you can exchange your driving licence for the Fuhrerschein once you register your address in Germany.
You need to submit your first certificate attesting your vision and health. You must also complete driving lessons at an German Fahrschule and be able to pass both the theoretical and practical tests before you can receive your license. This can be expensive however it's the only way to legally operate a car in Germany. This search engine can help you find driving instructors who speak English on the Internet.
How do I obtain a German driving license?
If you're from one of the states or countries that has an agreement with Germany, it may be possible to exchange your driver's licence to an Fuhrerschein (German driving licence) without taking an exam in theory or on the road. The exact procedure varies from one country to another and you should check with your local driving office for the most current information. In general, you'll need to register your residency and submit documents that prove you're healthy and have clear vision. In some instances you'll also be required to provide proof that your license isn't suspended or revoked.
For instance, if from Australia or New Zealand, you can swap your license for one of a German one without needing to take any tests. If you're from South Australia or Tasmania, however it is necessary to pass a theory and practice test is required to get an official driving license.
The process of getting an German driver's license can be more difficult for those who come from countries which don't have a formal agreement with Germany, or from the United States. In most instances, you'll need take a course at an driving school and pass a theoretical and practical exam before you can get an Fuhrerschein. You'll also need to register your vehicle and complete the first aid course.
You'll need to make an appointment at your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and bring all the necessary documents. You'll receive a confirmation email after your appointment. It will tell you when you can pick up your German driving license. It could take between four and six weeks for the application to be processed.
Once you've obtained an German driving license valid for 15 years. You can renew your license if it is close to expiring by bringing a passport photo along with your driving license to the local licensing authority. A small fee of EUR24 is required. It is important to inform your licensing authority immediately in the event that you lose your German driver's license. This will stop fraud and unauthorised activities. You'll need to provide an official letter stating that you will replace your license if it is discovered.
Can I apply for a German license even if I already have a driving license?
If you have a license from an EU or EEA country or a country which has a specific reciprocity agreement with Germany and Germany, then you can usually exchange your foreign driving license for one that is a German one without taking any formal or theoretical exams. This is only a possibility in the event that the driver has been driving for some period of time, or has established a normal residence in Germany and registrated their residential address.
You will still be required to show proof of identity and a passport photograph. Additionally, you will need to register your vehicle with the authorities and pass a safety check (TUV). You must also obtain insurance for your vehicle, since it is a requirement in Germany. More information can be found on our page on driving in Germany.
As a general rule you are only able to keep your driving licence for 15 years. If you're nearing the expiration date you must arrange an appointment with the local driver licensing office at minimum four weeks in advance to renew it. This will allow you enough time to complete the paperwork. Bring your current driving license, the renewal form and a current passport photo with you.
The requirements for changing your foreign driving license can differ depending on where you live. If you're not sure, you can contact the local driver license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). They'll be able to give you more detailed information.
If you're looking to exchange a foreign licence to a German one, you'll require an official written statement or theft report (as as well as the original document) and an authentic passport photo. Then you'll need to take an oral or practical driving test, as well passing a medical exam.
During the test for practical driving You'll be asked questions regarding traffic laws in Germany. You'll then be asked to demonstrate your driving abilities on a highway that is public. You'll receive your new German licence a few days later if you are successful.
Can I get a German driving license if I have a US license?
Rules vary based on the state the state where your license was issued. The US is a country where states have authority over driver licensing, which means that each state can set its own rules. In Massachusetts for instance drivers with a valid German license are able to drive in the USA up to one-year without needing to change their US driving licenses or have them amended.
If you plan to stay in the USA for a longer time frame, or return to Germany as resident, it is recommended to obtain an international driver's license while in the USA. If you don't have one, you'll need to change 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 contains a list of countries and states where a driver's license from this country can be transferred without retaking 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 don't come from a country or state included in Anlage 11 or you wish to obtain another license class, you must complete the course of instruction and be able to pass the tests. This includes enrolling in an instructor-led driving course, taking theory classes, passing a multiple-choice test, and a practical test to demonstrate that you are aware of the guidelines of driving and that you are able to handle a vehicle. The driving test is conducted by an experienced examiner. The cost of the theory and driving lessons will vary, but could range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand euros.
You will also be required to purchase auto insurance that is mandatory. Prices will differ from one firm to another. Compare prices online. Some of the biggest companies in Germany include DA Direkt and ADAC.