How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
If you are moving to Germany from a foreign country or US state that has reciprocity with Germany then you can exchange your license. In some instances however, you could be required to take the theory and practical test.
Prices vary, so be sure you compare prices. Also, make certain to choose a reputable driving school.
What is a driver's license?
A driving license is a document that permits you to drive an automobile. It includes information like your name, father's name date of birth, address, vehicle types, emergency contact, blood group, fingerprint impression and driver's photo. The driving licence also includes a magnetic strip though this is not yet being used.
In order to pass the driving test in Germany you must pass both the theory and practical tests. The driving test typically lasts 45 minutes and is conducted by a qualified examiner. The examiner will also ask you a few general questions, and will ask you questions about German road signs, rules, and other information. The examiner will let you know whether you passed or failed the test. If you pass, you will be given a slip which allows you to drive for a few weeks until you get your license.
When you take your driving test the most important thing to do is to be calm and relaxed. Most people fail their driving tests because they panic or forget the rules of road. It is also essential to practice driving as much as possible before taking the test, especially if you are from a nation where the driving laws differ.
If you are only staying in Germany for a short period, your license from your country of origin will suffice. If you're planning to permanently move to Germany, you will need an updated driving license. Luckily, a majority of countries have reciprocal agreements with Germany and you can exchange your driving licence in exchange for a Fuhrerschein as soon as you register your address in Germany.
However, you must first submit certificates that prove your eyesight and health. It's also necessary to attend driving lessons with an accredited German Fahrschule and take both the practical and theoretical exams before you can get your license. This can be costly, but it is the only way to legally operate the vehicle in Germany. There are driving schools that speak English on the internet using this search aggregater.
How do I get a German driver's license?
You could be able to exchange your driving license to the Fuhrerschein without needing to pass a theory test or a practical test if are a resident of an agreed-upon country with Germany. The exact procedure varies from country to country, and you should consult the local driving office for the most current information. In general, you will need to register your residency and submit documents that prove you are healthy and have clear vision. In some cases you may also be required to provide certificates attesting your license is not suspended or revoked.
For instance, if from Australia or New Zealand, you can exchange your license for a German one without needing to pass any tests. If you're from South Australia, Tasmania, or Victoria However you'll need to pass the theory and the practical test to be able to get a full-time license.
For those who are coming from a country that doesn't have an agreement with Germany or the United States, the process of getting the German driving license is more difficult. It is common to have to pass a theoretical and practical test, along with an instruction at a German driving school before you can get the Fuhrerschein. You'll have to register your vehicle and complete an initial-aid course.
You will need to make an appointment with your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and bring the required documentation. After your appointment, you'll get an email stating when you can pick up your German driver's license. Your application can take up to six weeks to be processed.
If you already have an German license, it's valid for 15-years. If it's coming up for expiration, you can renew it by bringing your driver's license and a passport photo to the local licensing authority. A small fee of around EUR24 is required. It is essential to inform your licensing authority immediately when you lose your German driver's license. This will prevent fraudulent use of identity and/or illegal activities. You'll need to provide a letter stating you will return the license if it is found.
Can I apply for a German license in the event that I already have a driver's license?
If you hold a driving license issued by an EU or EEA country, or a country that has a special reciprocity agreement with Germany You are able to exchange your driving license from another country for one German one, without having to pass any formal or theoretical exams. This is generally only possible if you've been driving for a long period of time and have established a regular residency in Germany and have registered your address with the authorities.
In this scenario you'll require proof of your identity and a current passport photograph. Additionally, you will need to register your vehicle with the authorities, and pass a safety inspection (TUV). Also, you must obtain insurance for your vehicle, since it is required in Germany. More details can be found on our page on driving in Germany.
As a general rule you can only keep your driving licence for 15 years. When you're getting close to the end of its validity it is recommended to make an appointment with your local driver licensing office at least four weeks prior to renew it. This will allow you time to complete the paperwork. Bring your current driver's license, the renewal form, and a recent passport photo with you.
The requirements for changing your foreign driving license can vary depending the location you reside in. If you're not sure, you can contact your local driver license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). They will be able to provide more details.
If you're trying to exchange a foreign license to one that is a German one, you will need to provide an official written statement or theft report (as as well as the original document) and a valid passport photograph. Then, you'll have to pass a written and/or practical driving test, as passing a medical exam.
During the practical driving test You'll be asked questions about traffic laws in Germany. Then you will be required to demonstrate your driving abilities on a public road. You'll be issued a new German license within a few days when you've been successful.
Can I get a German license if I already have a US driving license?
cool training differ based on the place you got your license. In the US every state has its own set of regulations regarding driver licenses. In Massachusetts for instance drivers with a valid German license can drive in the USA for a period of one year without having to change their US driving licenses or amend them.
It is highly recommended that those who are planning to remain in the USA for longer than the period or who are planning on returning to Germany as permanent residents, obtain an International Driver's License during their stay there. In the event that you need to visit the Fuhrerscheinstelle (driving license authority) in Germany in Germany, you'll need to surrender your American license to obtain a 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 in which a driver’s license 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 do not come from a country or state that is listed in Anlage 11 or you wish to take a different license, you have to complete the required course of instruction and be able to pass the tests. This includes signing up at driving school, taking theory lessons and completing an exam written (multiple-choice) test and a practical driving test to demonstrate that you understand the rules of the road and are able to drive a vehicle. The driving test is conducted by an experienced examiner. The cost of driving and theory lessons can vary from several hundred euros to a few thousand euros.
You are also required to purchase auto insurance that is mandatory. Prices will differ from one company to another. Compare quotes online. Some of the biggest companies in Germany are DA Direkt and ADAC.