How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is an asset that is valuable not just because it is a top-quality licence with high standards however, its recognition is widespread across Europe. Expats often want to change their driving licence from the EU/EEA for one with a German license after it expires.
What are the requirements?
You must meet a number of prerequisites before you can get 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 obtain an official driver's license of class B that is required for most passenger vehicles as well as small commercial vehicles. You can also get a class E or C license if you wish to drive large vehicles such as trucks and buses. Or a class T for forest or agricultural tractor. You may have to pass an oral or written test in some cases before you can sit for the test in the practical.
Some countries allow their citizens to exchange their licenses with a German one without having to pass an exam. This includes citizens of countries that are part of the European Union or the European Economic Area as and 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 will need to pass a written and practical test prior to getting the German driver's license. In some cases you may have to pass an eye test as well as 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 will be required to present proof of insurance and a foreign driving license, along with an official letter from your employer or the city informing you that you've relocated to Germany. eu führerschein kaufen may also be required to provide a photo.
The cost of the test dependent on where you reside in Germany, but it is typically less than EUR100. After you've completed both the written and practical test, your German driving license will be ready to collect within several days.
It is important to know the requirements for the German license as a lot of expats will need to have one to legally drive in the country. It can be difficult to take public transport in rural areas and in bad weather. A car can make it easier.
How do I get a German driving license?
If you hold a driver's license from another country within the European Union (EU) or from a country recognized by Germany as having full or partial reciprocity and you wish to convert your licence to one that is a German one without taking any tests. The process can be completed by making an appointment with your local driver's licensing authority known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring the original license as well as a proof of identification as well as a passport photo. In most cases, you can pick up your German driving licence in 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 obtaining the German license. In order to do so you must register your residence address and pass an German test for language proficiency which is available through a private school or at the local language center.
Obtaining an German driving license can take some time however, it is a necessary step to being safe to drive on the road. In addition, it can make renting a car easier, since some rental companies may require a German license. It is crucial to keep in mind that driving in Germany is an extremely serious business, and must be treated as such.
It is suggested to take driving lessons and practice behind the wheels. This will help you become more comfortable before taking your test. Farschule123 is a website that allows you to search for a driving school by location and type of vehicle. In addition numerous driving schools offer theory classes in various languages.
Renewing your German driving license is easy. Make an appointment with your local licensing authority at least four weeks prior to the date the expiration date of your license. You'll be required to bring your driver's license along with a passport photo that you took recently and pay a tiny amount of 24 euros. Then, your new driving licence will be ready for you to pick up in four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
Although it is possible to get a driver's license in Germany without taking the theoretical 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) and paying a significant amount.
Driving schools are available across the country. They offer a broad range of courses beginning with a basic driver's instruction in cars to a bus or truck license. You can also enroll in the theory course in your own language. Some schools charge less than others. The best method to find the right driving school is to ask around and check online reviews.
The process of converting an American driving license to one that is a German one can take anywhere between two and six months, based on the availability of the driving school and if you have a reciprocity agreement. If you don't, you will need to translate your driver's licence into German, which can be done by a certified translator or an approved automobile organization. In addition, you could submit the KBA registry extract in your country of birth as proof of residency.
You will need to take a practical test once you have all of the required documents. During the practical exam the instructor is in the passenger's seat while you drive the vehicle and answer questions. If you pass, you'll be able to pick up 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 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 will need a translated drivers' licence and a medical certificate. Additionally, you will need to submit a certified translation your passport and an image-based ID card.
Can I swap my driving license from a foreign country to get one in Germany? German license?
If you're moving to a state or country with a reciprocity agreement with Germany and Germany, the process of transferring your license for one German one is relatively simple. Twenty-seven states, including New York and California, have this agreement, which means that if you are able to present your driving license from these states, you will not be required to pass the written or road test in Germany which will permit you to obtain a complete German driver's license. You must show your current driver's license as well as identification proof (usually a passport or a national ID card) and a recent photo. The requirements for each state (Lander) differ and it is recommended to check your local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before making an appointment.
You will only need to change your license within the first six month of your residency. If you do not do this, it could be considered a violation to your residency permit and authorities may be able to take action against you. If you plan to utilize car-sharing services that require a European license or a German license it is more important to begin the process and work towards getting your German license.
Anyone who moves to Germany from outside the EU/EEA area can keep their driver's license for a period of up to 12 months after they have registered their address. However they must have it translated into German by a certified translator or an internationally recognized automotive organization or a licensed translator. This is a vital step since most insurance companies won't cover 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 done online, by phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need your current license, an official translation of the license into German, your driver's history from your home country, and proof of identification. You will also be required to pay a fee of approximately EUR35 which you can either pay in cash or by the transfer of funds from a bank. You will receive a confirmation by mail after you have submitted all the required documents.