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 to exchange their current license to a German one once their EU / EEA driving license expires.
What are the requirements for the application?
There are a few requirements before you can buy a German license. This includes the type of vehicle you intend to drive and your age. You must be at least 18 years old to get a class B driver's license which is required for all passenger vehicles as well as small commercial vehicles. You can also apply for a class C or E license if you want to drive heavy vehicles, such as trucks and buses or a class T license for forestry or agricultural tractor. In certain instances, you may need to pass a written or oral test before being able to take a practical exam.
fuhrerschein kaufen of some countries can exchange their license for a German one without taking 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, you will be required to take a written and practical test prior to getting a German driver's license. In some instances, you may also need to pass a medical exam and an eye test.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact procedure varies. In general, you will require proof of insurance as well as your foreign driving license, along with an official letter from your employer or city stating that your have moved to Germany. You may also be required to show a photo.
The cost of the driving test is dependent on the area you reside in Germany. However it's usually less than EUR100. Once you've passed both the written and practical tests then your German driving license will be available for pick-up within some weeks.
It is essential to understand the requirements for the German license as a lot of expats require one to legally drive in Germany. It isn't easy to use public transport in rural areas and in bad weather. Car ownership could make it easier.
How do I get a German driver's license?
You can convert a driving license from another EU country or a country recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to the German license without taking any exams. You can do this by arranging an appointment with the local authority for driver's licenses, also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need to bring the original license, a form or identification and a passport photograph. In the majority of cases the German licence will be available to pick up within four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK or Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, Switzerland, Andorra or Andorra you are able to use it for up to six month before getting the German license. To obtain a German license you must verify your address of residence and complete a German test of your language, which can be taken by a private institution or at the local language center.
The process of obtaining the German driving license can take a while, but it is a necessary step to being competent to drive safely on the road. It also makes renting a car easier, since some rental companies require at least a German driving license. It is crucial to keep in mind that driving in Germany is an important business and should be treated as such.
It is suggested that you enroll in a driving school and do some practice driving to help you feel more comfortable during your exam. Farschule123 lets you to find driving schools by location and type of vehicle. Additionally, many driving schools offer classes in various languages.
Renewing your German driving license is a simple process. Make an appointment with your local licensing authority at least four weeks prior to the date your licence expires. You will need to bring your license, a recent passport photo, and pay a small fee of about 24 euros. Then, your new driving licence will be ready to pick up within four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
While it is possible to get a driver's license in Germany without having to pass the theoretical or practical test due to a reciprocity agreement the majority of expats should consider starting from the beginning. This requires going through a driving school and spending a significant amount of money.
You can find driving schools across the nation. They offer a broad range of courses starting from a basic driving course in cars to a truck or bus license. You can also take the theory course in your own language. Some schools are cheaper than others. Doing some research and reading online reviews is the best way to find the right driving school.
The process of changing an American driving license to one that is a German one can take between two and six months, depending on the availability of the driving school and if you have a reciprocity agreement. 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 present the KBA registry extract from your country of birth as proof of residency.
You'll have to take a practical test once you have all the required documents. During the practical exam the driving instructor sits in the seat of the passenger as you drive your vehicle and you must answer questions. You will get your driving license in a few days after passing.
If you fail the practical test, you'll have to take the test again with a different instructor and pay the fee. You will also need to demonstrate that you have completed the medical examination and, if needed 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 an original driver's license translated as well as a medical certificate in this instance. You will also need to provide a certified translation and a photocopy of your passport.
Can I exchange my driving license from another country for a German license?
If you are moving to a country or state which has a reciprocity arrangement with Germany the process of exchanging your license to one German one is relatively simple. The agreement is in place with 27 states that include New York, California and others. If you hold an driving license from one of these states, you will not need to take a written or road test in Germany. You will be able to get your complete German license. You will be required to show your current driver's license as well as proof of identity (usually a passport or national ID card) and a recent photo. The exact requirements vary between the federal states (Lander) and so it is recommended to inquire with the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before scheduling an appointment.
You will only need to exchange your license within the first six month of your residency. If you don't, this could be a violation of your residency permit. The authorities may decide to take action against you. If you're planning to use car-sharing services many of which require an European or German license, this is even more reason to get the process started and work towards obtaining your German license.
People who are moving to Germany from outside the EU/EEA can continue to use their driver's license for up to one year after registering their address. They must, however, get it translated by a sworn translation, a recognized internationally automotive organization or a licensed interpreter. This is a crucial step because many insurance companies won't insure non-EU/EEA drivers 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 online, by phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will need your current license and an official German translation of your license, your driving history from your country of origin, as well as evidence of identity. You will also need to pay a fee which is approximately EUR35. This can be paid in cash or by bank transfer. Once you have all of the required documents You will be informed via email that your application has been submitted (Bescheinigung). (Bescheinigung).