How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
You can exchange your license if you are moving to Germany from another state or country within the US which has reciprocity. In some instances, you may require passing a theory and practical test.
Prices can vary and you should shop around! Also, make sure to select a reputable driving school.
What is a driver's license?
A driving licence is a document which allows you to operate in a vehicle. It contains information such as 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, even though it is not yet being used.
To pass the driving test in Germany you must pass both the theoretical and practical tests. The driving test typically takes 45 minutes and is administered by a certified examiner. The examiner will also ask 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 succeed you will be given a slip allowing you to drive until you are able to pick up your license a few weeks later.
The most important thing to remember when taking the driving test is to relax and remain calm. The most common reason that people fail their driving test is because they panic and forget the rules of the road. It is also essential to practice driving as much as possible prior to the actual test, especially if you are from a country where driving regulations differ.
If you're in Germany for a short period the driving license from your home country should suffice. 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. Most countries have reciprocal agreements. you can exchange your license for a Fuhrerschein when you register your address in Germany.
You have to present your first certificates attesting your health and vision. It is also essential to take driving lessons with a certified German Fahrschule and take both the theory and practical exams before you can get your license. It's expensive, but this is the only way you can legally drive a car in Germany. There are driving schools that speak English on the internet using this search aggregator.
How do I get a German driving license?
If you're from a country or state which has a relationship with Germany it could be possible to exchange your driver's licence for a Fuhrerschein (German driving license) without the need to pass a theory or practical test. The exact procedure differs between countries, and you should contact the local driving office for the most up-to-date information. In general, though you'll need to verify your residence and provide proof showing that you're healthy and have good eyesight. In certain instances, you could also be required to submit certificates attesting your license is not suspended or revoked.
For instance, if from Australia or New Zealand, you can change your license to one that's a German one without needing to pass any tests. If you're from South Australia, Tasmania, or Victoria however you'll need to pass an exam in theory and practice to be able to get a full-time license.
The process for 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 from the United States. In most instances, you'll have to complete a course at a driving school and pass a theoretical and practical exam before you can get a Fuhrerschein. You'll also need to register your car and attend the first aid course.
You'll need to make an appointment at your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and present all of your required documentation. You'll receive a confirmation email after your appointment that will let you know when you'll be able to pick-up your German driving license. The application could take up to six weeks to process.
Once you've obtained the German driving license, it's valid for 15 years. If it's due to expire you can renew it by bringing your driving license along with a passport photograph to an authority for licensing in your area. You'll need to pay an amount that is usually around EUR24. If you have lost your German driving license, it is recommended to contact your licensing authority right away to prevent fraudulent use of your identity and/or unlawful activities. You'll have to provide an official letter stating that you will return your license if it's found.
Can I obtain a German driving license if I already have an international license?
If you have driving licences from one of the countries in the EU, EEA, or one that has an agreement of reciprocity, you can exchange it for the German license without having to pass any theory or practical tests. This is typically only possible if you have been driving for a long time and have established a normal residence in Germany and have registered your residential address with the authorities.
echten führerschein kaufen erfahrungen 'll still have to show proof of your identity and a passport picture. You will also need to register your car with the authorities and pass a safety inspection (TUV). You must also obtain insurance for your vehicle, since it is a requirement in Germany. More information about this on our page on driving in Germany.
In general you are only able to keep your driver's licence for 15 years. When you're close to the end of its validity it is recommended to make an appointment with your local driver licensing office at least four weeks in advance to renew it. This will give you enough time to complete all the necessary documentation. You'll need to bring the renewal form, your current driving licence and a recent passport photo with you.
The exact requirements for exchanging a foreign driving licence can differ depending on the state in which you live. If you aren't sure, we recommend that you get in touch with your local driver's licensing office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) for more personalized information.
You'll need a copy of the original document, a written statement (or theft report) as well as the passport photo. Then you'll need to take a written and/or practical driving test, as passing a medical exam.
During the practical test you will be asked about traffic laws in Germany. Then, you'll be given the chance to demonstrate your driving skills on a public roadway. You will receive your new German licence within a few days in the event that you pass.
Can I get a German license even if I already have a US driving license?
Rules differ based on where the license was issued. The US is a nation where each state has jurisdiction over driver licenses, and each state has the ability to set its own rules. For instance, in Massachusetts, people who have an active German driving license are able to drive in the USA for up to one year without exchange or having their US licenses changed.
It is highly recommended that those who are planning to remain in the USA for a longer duration or who plan on returning to Germany as permanent residents, obtain an International Driver's License during their stay in the USA. If you don't have one, you'll need to change your American driving license for one German one at the time 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 includes the states and countries in which drivers' licenses from that country may be transferred without retaking a driving test. It 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're not from a state or country which is listed in Anlage 11, or you want to get a different type of license, you will have to complete the entire course of instruction and be able to pass all tests. This includes enrolling in an instructor-led driving course as well as taking the theory course and passing a multiple-choice examination and a practical test to prove that you understand the guidelines of driving and that you are able to handle a vehicle. The driving exam is conducted by an expert examiner. The cost of the theory and driving lessons will vary, but could be anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand euros.
You will also be required to purchase mandatory auto insurance. Again, the prices will differ from one company to the next company. You can compare quotes on the internet. Some of the largest companies in Germany include DA Direkt and ADAC.