How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a valuable asset, not only because it has high standards however, its recognition is widely spread across Europe. Foreigners often want to swap their EU/EEA driving licence for the German license after it expires.
What are the prerequisites for the application?
There are several requirements to buying a German driving license, such as the type of vehicle you want to drive as well as your age. You must be 18 years old to get a class B driver's license which is required for all passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also get a class C or E license if you want to drive heavy vehicles such as buses and trucks, or a class T license for forestry or agricultural tractor. In some cases you will need to pass an oral or written test before being able to take a test.
Certain countries allow citizens to exchange their licenses with one that is a German one without having to pass an examination. This includes citizens of countries that are part of the European Union or the European Economic Area as in addition to 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.
You will need to pass both the written test and the practical test if you're not from one these countries. In some cases you may also have to pass a medical exam and vision test.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact procedure differs. In general, you will need to bring proof of insurance as well as your foreign driving license, as well as an official letter from your city or employer stating that your have moved to Germany. You may also need to provide a photo.
The cost of the driving test is different according to where you live in Germany however, it's typically 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 for collection within a few days.
It is essential to understand the requirements for the German license as a lot of expats require one to legally drive in the country. It can be difficult to use public transportation in rural areas, and during severe weather. A car can simplify the process.
How do I get an German driver's license?
You can convert a driving license from another EU country or one recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to an German license without taking any exams. The process can be completed by making an appointment at your local authority for driver's licences which is known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need the original license as well as a form of identification and a passport photograph. In most cases, you will be able to pick up your German driving license in four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland or Andorra, you can use it for up to six months before getting a German license. To do this you must register your residence address and complete the German language test, which can be taken by a private institution or at the local language center.
It can take a while to obtain a German license however, it's essential to be able to safely drive on the road. In addition, it can help you rent a car easier, as some rental agencies may require you to hold a German license. Driving in Germany is a serious issue and should be treated accordingly.
It is suggested to take driving classes and practice driving. This will help you become more comfortable when you take your test. You can find a driving school through the website Farschule-123, which allows you to filter by area and kind of vehicle. Many driving schools also offer theory classes in different languages.
Renewing your German driving license is simple. You should make an appointment at your local driving licensing office at minimum four weeks before your license expiring. You'll be required to bring your driving licence and a passport photograph taken recently, and pay a modest amount of 24 euros. Then your new driving licence will be available for you to collect in about four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
While it is possible to get an driver's license in Germany without taking the theory or practical test due to a reciprocity arrangement, the majority of expats would be better off beginning from the beginning. This involves going through an Fahrschule (driving school for drivers) and paying a substantial amount of money.
Driving schools are located 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 provide you with theory classes in your native language. Some schools are cheaper than others. Doing some research and reading online reviews is the best way to locate the right driving school.
The process of changing an American driving license to one that is a German one could take anywhere from two to six months, based on the availability of the driving school and whether or not you have a reciprocity agreement. If not then you will need to translate your driver's license in German and this can be done by a sworn translator or an approved automobile organization. Alternately, you can submit an extract of the registry from the KBA in your country of origin to prove of residency.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you'll have to take a practical test. During the exam 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 test in the exam, you'll need to repeat the entire process with another instructor and pay the fee. You will also need to show that you have completed the medical examination and, if required, show a certificate for 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 need an official driver's licence that has been translated and medical certificate. You will also need to submit a certified translation your passport as well as photo identification.
Can I swap my driving license from a foreign country for a German license?
If you are moving from an area or state with a reciprocity agreement with Germany the process of transferring your license for one German one is relatively simple. The agreement is in place with 27 states, including New York, California and others. If you hold an driving license from one of these states, then you will not need to take a written or road test in Germany. You can obtain your complete German license. You will need to show your current driver's license, proof of identity (usually a valid passport or national ID card), and a photo that was taken recently. The requirements for each state (Lander) differ therefore it is advisable to verify the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle), before booking an appointment.
It is only necessary to exchange your license for one of a German one within the first six months of your residency. If you do not, you could be deemed to be in violation of your residency permit. The authorities could be able to take action against you. If you intend to utilize car-sharing services that require the use of a European license or German license, it is even more crucial to begin the process and work towards getting your German license.
People who are moving to Germany from outside of the EU/EEA region can continue to use their driver's license for up to one year after they have registered their address. They must, however, get it translated by a sworn translation, an internationally recognized automotive organisation, or a licensed interpreter. This is an important step since most insurance companies won't cover drivers from outside the EU/EEA without an official 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, by phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need to bring your current license, a translation of the license into German, your driver's history from your country of origin and proof of identification. Additionally, registrierten führerschein online kaufen will be required to pay a fee of about EUR35 which you can either pay in cash or by an electronic transfer to a bank. You will receive a confirmation by mail after you have submitted all the required documents.