How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a valuable asset not just because it is a top-quality licence with high standards however, its recognition is widespread throughout Europe. Expats often want to change their driving license from the EU/EEA to one with a German license once it expires.
What are the requirements?
There are several requirements to buying the German driving license, which includes the type of vehicle you want to drive and your age. To obtain a class-B driver's licence, you must be 18 years old. This is the minimum age for most passenger cars and small commercial vehicles. You can also obtain an E or C class license if you wish to drive heavy vehicles, such as buses and trucks. A class T license is required for forestry or agricultural tractors. In some cases you might need to pass an oral or written test before being allowed to take a test.
Citizens of certain countries can change their licenses to a German one without taking a test. 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.
You'll need to pass the written test and the practical test if you are not from one of these countries. In certain cases, you'll need to pass an eye test or medical exam.
When Fuehrerscheinn to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The procedure for applying for a driving license is different. But generally, you will require proof of insurance and a foreign driving license, along with a letter from either your city or employer stating that you've relocated to Germany. You may also have to provide a photo.
The cost of the driving exam varies according to the location you reside in Germany. However, it is usually less than EUR100. Once you've passed the written and practical tests then your German driving license will be available for pickup within several weeks.
It is important to know the requirements for the German license as a lot of expats will need to have one to legally drive in Germany. It can be difficult to take public transportation in rural areas, and during bad weather. A car will help.
How do I obtain a German driving license?
You can convert a driving licence from another EU country or a country recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to a German license without having to take any tests. The process can be completed by arranging an appointment with your local driver's licensing authority known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need to bring your original license as well as a form of identification, and a passport photo. In the majority of instances the German licence will be available to pick up within four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK or Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, Switzerland, Andorra or Andorra you are able to use it up to six months before obtaining an German license. To obtain this, you must register your address and take a German language test that can be taken at a local language centre or a private language school.
Obtaining a German driving license can take a while but it's a necessary step to being able to drive safely on the road. It can also make renting a car a lot easier since some rental companies require that you have a German driving license. It is crucial to remember that driving in Germany is an important business and should be treated as such.
It is recommended to enroll in driving lessons and get a driving lesson. This will make you more comfortable before taking your test. You can find driving schools on the website Farschule-123 that lets you filter by area and the type of vehicle. Some driving schools also offer theory classes in different languages.
Renewing your German driving license is a simple process. Simply schedule an appointment with your local driving license authority at least four weeks prior to the date the expiration date of your license. You will be required to bring your driving licence and a passport photograph taken recently and pay a small amount of 24 euros. Then your new driving license will be available for you to collect in about four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
It is possible to get a German driver's licence without having to take the theory or practical test through an arrangement of reciprocity. However, most expats would be better off starting from the beginning. This means going through a Fahrschule (driving school) and paying a substantial amount.
Driving schools are available across the country and offer a variety of classes, from the basic car class to a truck, bus or passenger transport license. You can also attend the theory course in your own language. The price can be a bit different in some places, with some charging less than others. The best method to find the best driving school is to ask around and check online reviews.
The process of converting an American driving license to one that is a German one could take anywhere between two and six months, based on the availability of the driving school and whether or not you have an agreement of reciprocity. If not have one, you must translate your driver's license into German and this can be accomplished by a sworn translator or a recognized automobile organization. Alternatively, you can submit an extract of the registry from the KBA in your country of origin to prove of residency.
After you have all the required documents, you will need to attend a practical exam. During the test, the driving instructor sits in the passenger's seat as you drive the vehicle and answer questions. If you pass, you'll be able to get your driving licence a few weeks later.
If you fail the practical exam and fail the practical exam, you must repeat the whole process with a different instructor, and pay the corresponding fee. You will also need to prove that you passed the medical exam and, if required present a certificate of good eyesight.
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). In this instance you will require a translated drivers' licence and medical certificate. You will also need to present a certified translation of your passport and an image-based ID card.
Can I exchange my license from abroad to a German one?
If you're moving to a country or state that has a reciprocity agreement with Germany the process of swapping your license for a German one is relatively easy. Twenty-seven states, including New York and California, have this agreement, which means that if you show your driver's license from these states, you won't be required to pass the road or written test in Germany, which will allow you to obtain a complete German driver's license. You'll need to present your current driver's licence, identification proof (usually an identity card or passport) ID card) and a recent photograph. The exact requirements differ among the federal states (Lander) and so it is best to consult the local authority responsible for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before scheduling an appointment.
You are only required to exchange your license to a German one within the first six months of residency. If you don't, this could be a violation of your residency permit. Authorities could take action against you. If you intend to utilize car sharing services that require an European license or German license, it is even more important to begin the process and work towards getting your German license.
People who are moving to Germany from outside the EU/EEA may continue to use their driver's license up to one year after registering their address. However, they must get it translated by a certified translation, a globally recognized automotive organisation, or a licensed interpreter. This is a crucial step as most insurance companies won't insure non-EU/EEA drivers without the 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 do this via the internet, by telephone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will require your current license and a German translation of your license, a copy of your driving history from the country of origin, and identification proof. You will also be required to pay a fee of approximately EUR35 which you can pay cash or via an electronic transfer to a bank. You will receive a confirmation via mail once you have submitted all the required documents.