How to Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If you have a valid driver's license issued by Australia, Canada, Japan, Korea, or the USA, the process is relatively straightforward. You'll still need pass a test of theory and a practical driving test.
The standard German driving license (fuhrerschein) conforms to EU law and is a card that needs to be presented when driving a car. It is valid for 15 years.
You must possess a valid driving permit
If you plan to drive a vehicle in Germany it is necessary to possess a valid driver's license. This is the case whether you are a newcomer to Germany or an EU citizen with an existing driver's license from your home country. The process to obtain a German driving licence varies based on your nationality, and whether or your home country has a reciprocal arrangement with Germany to exchange drivers' licences. In some cases you may have to pass a theory and practical test in order to be granted the German license.
In general, you are able to use the driving license from your country of origin for up to six months. Then, you'll need to get an German one or convert your license. You'll need to show your passport along with proof of address. Additionally, you need to present a current driving certificate and medical certificate. Then, you have to submit the documents to a Fuhrerscheinstelle. The process usually takes between two and six weeks.
In most instances, if your driving license was issued in the EU or EEA you can transfer it to an German one without having to pass a theory or practical test. There are exceptions for big trucks and busses, which require an additional permit.
You can also get an German driving license if you are an EU citizen but reside in a non-EU country. However, you need to establish that you have a usual residence in Germany. This is usually assumed if you live in Germany for at least 185 days per year for either professional or personal reasons.
The German driver's license is a card made of plastic similar to a credit card size. It holds your personal details and lists the types of vehicles you are able to drive. It is an European standard that is valid in the European Union as well as in Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.
The costs involved in getting a German driving license can be a bit different however, most people will need to enroll in driving schools. The cost of enrollment can be a bit different, and the price for practice hours could be very high too. Choose a driving school with an excellent reputation and offers high-quality lessons. This will ensure that you receive the best education possible and that driving schools do not take advantage of your situation.
You must pass your driving test
The driving test is a major stage in getting the German license. It is a written and a practical test that tests your knowledge of traffic laws, safety rules, and driving skills. You may be required to attend many classes in theory and practice depending on where you live. It is crucial to practice and maintain confidence during the test. You'll fail if you disregard traffic laws or behave recklessly.
You will be issued temporary license on paper when you pass the test. This will allow you to drive legally while waiting for your permanent license which is usually issued within four weeks after passing the test. During this time, however, you are on probation, and should you violate any of the laws governing driving your license is suspended.
It is an excellent idea to sign up for a driving school in order to prepare for the theory test. They can help you learn the fundamentals of driving in Germany, and help you prepare for the test. You can also study on your own or use any of the numerous online resources available. After you've passed your theory test, you're now ready for practical driving lessons with a certified instructor. Then you'll be ready to take the test for driving that is just under an hour long and evaluates your ability to deal with various traffic situations.
Driving license rules vary widely between federal states (Lande) and even within localities. The best method to determine which requirements for driving licenses are applicable to you is to call your local driver's license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) for more details. Read Homepage can be found at your city's hall or local citizens' office.
The process for obtaining an German driver's license is lengthy, especially for those who are from countries that do not have full reciprocity with Germany. However there are three basic requirements that almost all expats must satisfy: pass a driver's test and then surrender their foreign license and provide all the necessary documents. A private driving school can assist you to expedite the process by handling all documents.
You must change your license
If you reside in Germany it's recommended to exchange your license as soon as you can. You'll be able drive legally across the entire country. You can find more information on this process on German government's website. Based on the state or country that you're moving to you may need to pass a written or driving test before you can be exchanged. This is a faster process than completing a full driver's training course.
To exchange your license, you'll need to visit the local road traffic department (Strassenverkehrsamt) or driving licensing office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). It's best to make an appointment in advance and call as there are various rules for exchanging your license. You'll also need to bring your passport as well as an updated photograph. If you've lost your license, you'll have to submit a letter explaining the circumstances surrounding it and stating that you'll return it in the event that it's found.
After you've submitted your documents, the Fuhrerscheinstelle will review your application. This can take up to several weeks. You will receive a receipt and invoice via email once your application is accepted. The invoice includes a fee to transfer your license. You can pay the invoice via an online banking service, or you can deposit cash at the Fuhrerscheinstelle.
While it is possible to rent a car in Germany however, the price can be prohibitive for expats living on budget. In addition public transportation is widely available and can be used to travel around the city. In fact, Germany is a great place to live in without a car, especially in cities like Hamburg, Berlin, or Munich.
Upgrade your license
If you're an expat living in Germany it is important to know that the country has strict rules regarding driving. You'll need to exchange your license, which can cost you up to 200 euros. The procedure is based on where you're from and how long you been in the country for.
The first step is to get your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to confirm that you're qualified to transfer your license. This typically requires submitting documents that confirm your health and eyesight. In some instances, you'll also need to pass a written and a practical test. Once you've passed this test, you are able to legally drive in Germany.
You should be aware that your driving license from a foreign country is valid only in Germany for up to six months after the establishment of your residence. This applies to EU and non-EU citizens. Additionally, you can only utilize your foreign license until it expires or if it is replaced by one that is a German one. You must change your licence before it expires or else you'll be fined.
If your driving licence was issued in a nation that has full reciprocity with Germany and Germany, you'll be exempt from both the practical and written test. The rules vary from state to state and some have only partial reciprocity. The process is easy however it's worth asking your local Fuhrerscheinstelle if you want more details.
The first step is to take your original driver's licence and an official translation of your birth certificate to the local office. You'll also need to provide proof of your residency as well as a photo ID such as a passport, national identity card or another form of identification. After submitting all of these documents the Fuhrerscheinstelle will verify that you're qualified to transfer your license.
To obtain a German driver's licence, you need to be at least 18 and have completed a driver's education course. You must also possess an active first aid certificate, and pass both a formal and practical driving test. If you plan to operate a taxi, forklift or other vehicle for passenger transport you'll also have to take a formal training course. You can find an inventory of courses offered online or in the local papers.