How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
If you are moving to Germany from a country or US state that has reciprocity with Germany then you could exchange your license. In certain situations, you might need to pass a theory and practical exam.
Prices vary, so be sure you compare prices. Choose a driving school that is reliable.
What is a driver's permit?
A driving license is a document that permits you to drive in a 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 includes magnetic strip, although it is not currently being used.
To pass the driving test in Germany you must pass both the theory and practical tests. Web Site driving exam usually lasts approximately 45 minutes and is administered by a qualified examiner. The examiner will also ask you some general questions and inquire about German road signs, regulations and other details. After the test the examiner will inform you in person if you passed or failed. If you pass the test, you will receive the certificate that permits you to drive until you take your license for within a few weeks.
If you are taking your driving test the most important thing is to be calm and relaxed. The most common reason people fail the driving test is because they are scared and forget the rules of the road. It's also important to practice driving as much as you can prior to the actual test, especially if you are from a nation where the driving laws are different.
If you're only staying in Germany temporarily, your license from your country of origin will be sufficient. If you're planning to move permanently to Germany and you're moving to Germany for a long time, you'll need a new driving license. Fortunately, most countries have reciprocal agreements with Germany and you can exchange your driving licence in exchange for the Fuhrerschein as soon as you register your address in Germany.
However, you must first present certificates attesting to your health and eyesight. It's also necessary to take driving lessons with an accredited German Fahrschule and take both the theoretical and practical tests before you can obtain your license. It can be costly, but it is the only way to legally drive a car in Germany. This search engine can help you find English-speaking driving instructors on the internet.
How do I obtain a German driving license?
You may be able to exchange your driving license for an Fuhrerschein without needing to pass a theory test or practical test if you are a resident of 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 current information. In general,, you'll need to register your residence and provide proof proving that you are healthy and have good eyesight. In certain instances, you could also be required to submit documents attesting that your license has not been suspended or revoked.
If you're from Australia or New Zealand you can exchange your license without having to take any tests. If you're from South Australia, Tasmania, or Victoria however you'll need to pass a theory and practical test to be able to get a full-time license.
The process of getting a German driver's license can be more difficult for those who come from countries which don't have a formal agreement with Germany or the United States. In the majority of instances, you'll need complete a course in a driving school and pass a theoretical and practical exam before you can get Fuhrerschein. You'll also need to sign up your car and attend the first aid course.
You'll need to make an appointment with your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and bring all the required documentation. You'll be sent a confirmation letter after your appointment. It will let you know when you can pick-up your German driving license. The application could take up to six weeks to be processed.
If you already have a German license, it is valid for 15-years. You can renew your license if it is close to expiring by bringing a passport photo and your driving licence to the local licensing authority. A small amount of EUR24 is required. If you have lost your German driving license, it is recommended to contact the licensing authority immediately to prevent fraudulent use of your identity or unauthorized actions. You'll need to provide an official letter that states you will return the license if found.
Can I obtain a German driving license if I already have a foreign license?
If you have driving licences from a country in the EU, EEA, or a country with an agreement of reciprocity, you can exchange it to obtain a German license without having to pass any theory or practical tests. This is only a possibility when the driver has been driving for a period of period of time, or has established a regular residence in Germany and registrated their residential address.
You'll still need to show proof of identity and a passport photo. You must also register your car with the authorities and pass a safety inspection (TUV). You must also obtain insurance for your vehicle, since it is obligatory in Germany. You can find out more about this on our page about driving in Germany.
In general, you can keep your driver's license for a period of 15 years. When you're getting close to the end of its validity it is recommended to arrange an appointment with the local driver licensing office at least four weeks prior to renew it. This is to give you time to complete all necessary documents. Bring your current driving license, renewal form, and a recent passport photograph with you.
The specific requirements for obtaining the foreign driving license may vary depending on the state in which you reside. If you aren't sure it is recommended that you contact the local office for driver's licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) for more personalized details.
You'll need a copy of the original document, a written declaration (or theft report) as well as an image of your passport. Then, you'll have to pass either a practical or written driving exam, as well being able to pass a medical test.
During the practical driving test You'll be asked questions regarding traffic laws in Germany. Then, you'll be given the chance to demonstrate your driving skills on a public road. If you pass, you'll receive your new German driving license just a few weeks later.
Can I get a German driving license if I already have a US license?
Rules vary based on the state the country from which your license was issued. The US is a country where the individual states have jurisdiction over driver licensing, which means that each state is able to establish its own rules. In Massachusetts for instance drivers who have an active German license are able to drive in the USA for up to one year without having to exchange their US driving licenses or amend them.
If you intend to stay in the USA for a longer time frame, or return to Germany as resident, it's recommended to obtain an international driver's license while there. Otherwise, when you visit the Fuhrerscheinstelle (driving license authority) in Germany and you'll have to give them your American license in exchange for an German license.
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 the states and countries where drivers' licenses from the country can be transferred without retaking a 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 listed in Anlage 11 or you wish to take an alternative license class, you must complete the required course of instruction and successfully pass the test. This involves signing up at an instructor at a driving school, learning the theory classes and completing a written (multiple-choice) test and a practical driving test to show that you know the rules of the road and are able to handle a car. The test is administered by an experienced and knowledgeable examiner. The cost of the theory and driving classes will vary, but could be anywhere from a few hundred to a couple thousand euros.
You'll also have to obtain mandatory car insurance. Prices can differ from one company to another. Compare prices online. Some of the largest companies in Germany are DA Direkt and ADAC.