How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a vital and valuable asset, not only because of its rigorous standards but additionally because it is recognized across Europe. It is therefore not uncommon for expats to want to exchange their current licence for one from a German one when their EU / EEA driving license expires.
What are the requirements for the application?
There are a few conditions before you can purchase a German license. These include the type of vehicle that you want to drive and your age. To get knowing it -B driver's licence, you must be 18 years old. This is the minimum age for the majority of passenger cars and small commercial vehicles. You can also obtain a class E or C license if you wish to drive large vehicles like trucks and buses. A class T license is required for agricultural or forest tractor. In certain instances you will have to pass a written or oral test before being able to take a test.
Certain countries allow their citizens to exchange their licenses with licenses that are a German one, without having to pass an exam. This applies to citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area and certain states in the U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand. South Korea, Japan.
If you're not from one of these countries, then you'll need to take a written and practical test prior to obtaining an German driver's license. In some cases you may require an eye test or a medical examination.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact procedure differs. But generally you'll need to bring proof of insurance as well as your foreign driving license, as well as a letter from either your city or employer stating that your have moved to Germany. You may also be required to provide a photo.
The cost of the driving exam is dependent on where you live in Germany. However it's usually less than EUR100. After you have passed both the written and practical test and have passed both tests, your German driving license should be ready to collect within a few days.
It is crucial to be aware of the requirements for the German driving license, as many foreigners are required to possess one to drive legally in the country. It can be difficult to take public transportation in rural areas, and during bad weather. A car could simplify the process.
How do I get a German driver's license?
You can convert a driving licence from another EU country or a country recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to the German license without taking any tests. You can do this by arranging an appointment with your local driver's license authority, also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need to bring your original license as well as a form of identification and a passport photograph. In most cases, you can obtain your German driving license in four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland or Andorra you are able to use it for up to six months prior to obtaining the German license. To obtain a German license you must identify your residence address and complete an German language test which is available through a private school or at the local language center.
It could take a while to obtain the German license however it is a must to be able to safely drive on the roads. It also makes renting a car easier, since some rental companies require you to have at least a German driving license. It is important to remember that driving in Germany is an extremely serious business, and must be treated as such.
It is recommended to enroll in driving classes and practice behind the wheels. This will make you more comfortable when you take your test. You can find driving schools on Farschule-123.com that lets you filter by area and type of vehicle. In addition there are many driving schools that offer classes in several languages.
Renewing your German driving license is simple. You should make an appointment at the local office for driving license renewal at least four weeks prior to the expiration date of your license. You'll be required to bring your driving licence and a passport photograph taken recently and pay a tiny amount of 24 euros. Your new driving license will be in place within four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
While it is possible to obtain a driver's license in Germany without taking the theory or practical test, thanks to a reciprocity agreement the majority of expats should consider starting from scratch. This means going through the Fahrschule (driving school for drivers) and paying a substantial amount of money.
Driving schools are available all over the world and offer a variety of courses, ranging from an entry-level car course to a truck, bus or passenger transport license. They are also able to offer you a theory course in your language. Some schools charge less than others. The best way to find a suitable driving school is to ask around and check online reviews.
The process to convert an American driving license to an German driving licence could take between two and six months, based on whether you have a reciprocity agreement or not. If you do not have a reciprocity agreement, you will need an interpreter to translate your license into German. This can be done either by a sworn translation or an automobile association. As an alternative, you can submit the KBA registry extract in your country of birth to prove of residency.
Once you have the necessary documents, you'll have to take a practical test. During this exam, the driving instructor will be in the seat of the passenger and you will drive the vehicle while being asked questions. If you pass, you will be able to obtain your driving license after a few weeks.
If you fail the exam in the exam, you'll need to repeat the whole process with a different instructor, and pay the fee. Additionally, you will have to prove you passed a medical examination 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). You'll need a translated driver's license as well as a medical certificate in this instance. You must also submit a certified translation your passport and an image-based ID card.
Can I exchange my license from abroad for one in Germany? German one?
If you're moving from one of the states or countries with a reciprocity agreement with Germany It is simple to exchange your license to one from Germany. This agreement is in place with 27 states that include New York, California and other states. If you hold a driving license from one of these states, then you will not need to take a written or road test in Germany. You can get your complete German license. You'll need your current driver's license, proof of your identity (usually a valid passport or national ID card), and a photo that was taken in recent times. The requirements for each state (Lander) vary, so it is best to check your local driving license authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle), before booking an appointment.
You are only required to exchange your license within the first six month of your residency. If you do not do this, it will be considered a violation of your residency permit and authorities could be able to take action against you. If you plan to utilize car sharing services that require the use of a European license or German license It is more important to begin the process of getting your German license.
People who are moving to Germany from outside of the EU/EEA region can continue to utilize their driver's licence for up to one year after registering their address. However they must have it translated into German by a sworn translator or an internationally recognized auto organization or a licensed translator. This is a vital step as a lot of insurance companies won't insure drivers from outside the EU/EEA region without a 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 make the appointment via the internet, by telephone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need your current license, an official translation of the license into German as well as your driver's license from your home country and evidence of identification. Additionally, you will be required to pay a fee of approximately EUR35 which you can pay in cash or by the transfer of funds from a bank. You will receive a confirmation mail once you have provided all the required documents.