How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a valuable asset, not only because it has high standards and standards, but also because its recognition is widespread throughout Europe. It is therefore not uncommon for expats to want to exchange their current license to one from a German one once their EU or EEA driving license expires.
What are the requirements?
You must meet a number of prerequisites before you can get a German license. These include the type of vehicle that you intend to drive and your age. You must be 18 years old in order to obtain an official driver's license of class B which is required for all passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also get 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 tractors. In certain instances you might have to pass an oral or written test before being able to take a practical exam.
Citizens of certain countries can change their licenses to one that is a German one without having to take an examination. This includes 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, you will need to pass a written and a practical test prior to obtaining a German driver's license. In certain cases, you'll have to pass an eye test or an examination for medical reasons.
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. But generally, you will be required to present proof of insurance and your 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 show a photo.
The cost of the driving test varies dependent on where you reside in Germany, but it is usually less than EUR100. After you've passed the practical and written tests then your German driving license will be available for pick-up within some weeks.
It is essential to understand the requirements for a German license since many foreigners require one to legally drive in Germany. It can be difficult to use public transport in rural areas and in bad weather. Having a car could make it easier.
How do I apply for a German driving license?
You can convert a driving license from another EU country or a country recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to a German license without taking any tests. This process can be completed by making an appointment at your local authority for driver's licences known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need to bring the original license as well as a form of identification, and a passport photo. In most instances the 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 before you can apply for a German license. To obtain a German license, you will need to identify your residence address and pass a German language test that can be taken by a private institution or at the local language center.
It can take a while to obtain an German license however, it's essential to be safe to drive on the road. In addition, it can make renting a car much simpler, as certain rental companies might require a German license. Driving in Germany is a serious matter and should be treated accordingly.
It is suggested that you enroll in driving schools and get some practice behind the wheel in order to aid you in feeling more at ease during your test. You can locate driving schools on Farschule-123.com, which allows you to search by area and type of vehicle. Some driving schools also offer theory classes in a variety of languages.
Renewal of your German driving license is simple. Make an appointment at your local driving licensing office at minimum four weeks before your license expiring. You will need to bring your license, a recent passport photo and pay a small fee of around 24 euros. Then your new driving license will be ready to pick up in four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
It is possible to obtain an German driver's license without having to pass the theory or practical test, thanks to the reciprocity arrangement. However, most foreigners would be better off starting from the beginning. This involves going through an Fahrschule (driving school) and paying a substantial amount.
Driving schools are available all over the world and offer a range of classes, from a basic car course to a bus, truck or passenger transport license. You can also enroll in the theory course in your own language. Some schools are cheaper than others. The best way to find a suitable driving school is to ask around and check online reviews.
The process of changing an American driving license to a German one can take between two and six months, depending on the availability of the driving school and if you have an agreement of reciprocity. If you don't have a reciprocity agreement then you'll need an interpreter to translate your license into German. This can be done either by a sworn translation or an automobile association. You can also submit an extract of the registry from the KBA in your country of origin to prove of residency.
After führerschein kaufen legal in deutschland have all the required documents, you'll have to attend a practical exam. During the exam, the driving instructor will be in the passenger seat and you will drive the car while being asked questions. You will receive your driving license a few days after passing.
If you fail the exam and fail the practical exam, you must repeat the whole process with a different instructor and pay the appropriate fee. In addition, you will need to prove that you have passed a medical examination and, if necessary you will need to show 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 an official driver's licence that has been translated and medical certificate. You will also be required to provide a certified translation and a photocopy of your passport.
Can I exchange my foreign driving license to get a German license?
If you are moving to an area or state with a reciprocity agreement with Germany and Germany, the process of exchanging your license to one German one is relatively easy. This agreement is in force with 27 states which include New York, California and other states. If you hold a driving license from one of these states, you will not need to take a written or road test in Germany. You can obtain your full German license. You'll need your current driver's license, proof of your identity (usually a valid passport or a national ID card) and a picture that was taken recently. The exact requirements differ among the federal states (Lander) and it is recommended to inquire with your local driving licensing authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before scheduling an appointment.
You only have to exchange your license for a German one within the first six months of residency. If you do not, you could be deemed to be in violation of your residency permit. The authorities could take action against you. If you are planning to utilize car sharing services that require an European license or German license, it is even more important to start the process and work towards getting your German license.
Those who are moving to Germany from outside the EU/EEA can continue to use their driver's license up to a year after registering their address. However they must get it translated into German by a certified translator or an internationally recognized auto organization or a licensed translator. This is a vital step, since many insurance companies won't insure drivers from outside the EU/EEA 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)". This can be completed online, over the phone or at the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will require your current license, a German translation of your license, your driving history from the country of origin, as well as proof of identity. Additionally, you will be required to pay a fee of approximately EUR35 that you can pay in cash or by an electronic transfer to a bank. You will receive a confirmation mail once you have submitted all the required documents.