How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving licence is a valuable asset not only because it has high standards however, its recognition is widespread throughout Europe. It is not unusual for expats to want to exchange their current licence to one that is a German one when their EU / EEA driving license expires.
What are the requirements for the application?
There are many requirements to buying a German driving license, which includes the type of vehicle you want to drive and your age. To get a class-B driver's license, you have to be 18 years old. This is the minimum age for most passenger cars and small commercial vehicles. You can also apply for an E or class C license if you want to drive heavy vehicles, such as trucks and buses or a class T license for agricultural or forestry tractor. In some cases you will require passing an oral or written test before you are allowed to take a practical exam.
Citizens of some countries can exchange their license for one that is a German one without having to pass an examination. This includes citizens of countries within the European Union or the European Economic Area as well as those from Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Hong Kong, San Marino, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Switzerland, France and the U.S.A (certain states) and Singapore.
If you're not from one of these countries, you'll be required to pass a written and a practical test prior to obtaining the German driver's license. In some cases you may also be required to pass a medical examination and an eye test.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The procedure for applying for a driving license is different. However, generally speaking, you will need to bring proof of insurance as well as your foreign driving license, as well as an official letter from your employer or the city informing you that you have relocated to Germany. You may also have to show a photo.
The cost of the test dependent on where you reside in Germany, but it is generally less than EUR100. Once you've passed the written and practical tests, your German driving license should be available for pick-up within some weeks.
It's crucial to understand the requirements for the German driving license, since many foreigners are required to have one in order to legally drive in the country. Public transport can be a challenge and uncomfortable for those living in rural areas, especially during bad weather, so having a car is often a necessity.
How do I obtain a German driver's license?
You can convert a driving license from an EU country or a country recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to a German license without taking any exams. This process can be completed by arranging an appointment with your local driver's licensing authority, called the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need your original licence, a form of identification and a passport photo. In most cases, your German licence will be ready for you to pick up in around four weeks.
If your licence was issued in the UK, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland or Andorra, you can use it for up to six months prior to obtaining a German license. In order to do so you must identify your residence address and pass an German test for language proficiency that can be taken at a private school or at the local language center.
It can take a while to obtain the German license however it is a must to be competent to drive safely on the roads. In addition, it can help you rent a car easier, since some rental agencies may require an German license. Driving in Germany is a serious thing and should be treated with care.
It is suggested that you enroll in a driving school and get some practice behind the wheel to help you feel more comfortable during your exam. The website Farschule123 allows users to search for driving schools by location and type of vehicle. A lot of driving schools offer theory classes in different languages.
Renewing your German driving license is simple. Simply make an appointment with your local driving licensing authority at least four weeks prior to the date your licence expires. You'll need to bring your driving licence, a current passport photo and pay a small fee of around 24 euros. Then, your new driving licence will be ready for you to pick up in four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
Although it is possible to obtain an driver's license in Germany without having to pass the theoretical or practical test, thanks to a reciprocity agreement most expats are better off starting from scratch. This requires going through a driving school and spending a significant amount of money.
Driving schools are located across the country and offer a range of courses, from an entry-level car course to a truck, bus or passenger transport license. You can also take theory classes in your native language. Some schools are cheaper than others. The best way to find the right driving school is to ask around and look up online reviews.
The process to convert an American driving license to an German driving license can take between two and six months, based on whether you have a reciprocity contract or not. If you don't have a reciprocity agreement it is necessary to hire an interpreter to translate your license into German. This is done through a certified translation or by an automobile organization. You can also submit an extract of your registry from the KBA in the country of origin to prove of residency.
You'll need to pass an actual test once you have all the necessary documents. During this exam, the driving instructor will be in the passenger seat and you will drive the vehicle while being asked questions. You will get your driving license in a few days after passing.
If you fail the practical test, you'll need to repeat the process with a different instructor and pay a fee. You must also demonstrate that you have completed the medical examination and, if necessary provide a proof 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 case you'll need a translated drivers' licence and medical certificate. You must also present a certified translation of your passport along with a photocard.
Can I exchange my license from abroad to a German one?
If you're moving to an area or country that has a reciprocity deal with Germany, it is relatively easy to exchange your license to one from Germany. 27 states, including New York and California, have this agreement, which means that if you can present your driving license from these states, you won't be required to pass the written or road test in Germany which will permit you to get a full German driver's license. führerschein kaufen 'll need your current driver's license, proof of your identity (usually an authentic passport or national ID card) and a picture that was taken in recent times. The exact requirements vary between the federal states (Lander) and therefore it is best to consult your local driving licensing authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle) prior to making an appointment.
You are only required to exchange your license within the first six months of your residency. If you don't do it, it could be considered a violation to your residency permit. The authorities could take action against you. If you intend to utilize car-sharing services that require the use of a European license or a German license It is more important to begin the process and work towards getting your German license.
Those who move to Germany from outside the EU/EEA area can continue using their driver's licence for up to 12 months after they register their address. However, they must have it translated into German by a certified translator, an internationally recognized automobile organization or a licensed translator. This is a vital step, as many insurance companies won't cover drivers from outside the EU/EEA without 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)". This can be done online, over the phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will need your current license as well as an official German translation of your license, your driving history from the country of origin, as well as proof of identity. Additionally, you will need to pay a fee, which is approximately EUR35. This can be paid in cash or through a bank transfer. You will receive a confirmation mail once you have provided all the required documents.