How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
You can change your license if you are moving to Germany from another country or state in the US with reciprocity. In certain situations, you might require passing a theory and practical test.
Prices can vary, so make sure you shop around. Choose a driving school that is reliable.
What is a driving license?
A driving licence is a document that permits you to drive in a vehicle. It includes information like your name, father's name date of birth, address, vehicle types, emergency contact, fingerprint impression, blood group and driver's photo. The driving licence also includes magnetic strips, though this is not yet being used.
To pass the driving test in Germany, you must pass both the theoretical and practical tests. The driving test usually lasts for 45 minutes and is conducted by a certified examiner. The examiner will also ask general questions and inquire about German road signs, regulations and other information. After the exam the examiner will inform you directly if you passed or failed. If you pass the test, you will receive a slip allowing you to drive until you pick up your license within a few weeks.
When you take your driving test the most important thing to do is to be calm and relaxed. The most common reason that people fail the driving test is because they are scared and don't know the rules of the road. It is important to take as many driving lessons as you can prior to the driving test, particularly if the driving rules in your country are different.
If you're staying in Germany for only a short time, then your driving license from your home country may suffice. If, however, you're moving to Germany permanently you'll need a new license. Luckily, a majority of countries have reciprocal agreements with Germany and you can exchange your driving license to Fuhrerschein Fuhrerschein once you have registered your address in Germany.
However, you have to first present a certificate attesting to your health and eyesight. You must also complete driving lessons at a German Fahrschule, and take both the theory and practical tests before you are able to receive your license. It can be costly however it's the only way to legally operate the vehicle in Germany. This search engine can help you find driving instructors who speak English on the Internet.
How do I get a German driving license?
If you're a citizen of one of the states or countries that has an agreement with Germany it could be possible to exchange your driver's license to the Fuhrerschein (German driving license) without taking a theory or practical test. The exact procedure is different between countries, and you should consult the local driving office for the most up-to-date information. In general, you will be required to verify your residency and provide proof that prove you are healthy and have a clear vision. In some instances you'll also have to provide certificates attesting that your license has not been suspended or revoked.
For instance, if from Australia or New Zealand, you can swap your license for one that's a German one without having to pass any tests. If you're from South Australia, Tasmania, or Victoria However you'll need to pass the theory and the practical test to obtain a full license.
For those who are coming from an area that doesn't have an agreement with Germany or the United States, the process of getting the German driving license is more difficult. You'll typically need to pass a practical and theoretical test, and a course at a driving school in Germany, before you can obtain a Fuhrerschein. You'll need to register your car and complete the first-aid training.
You will need to make an appointment with your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and bring the required documentation. You'll receive a confirmation email following your appointment. It will inform you when you can pick-up your German driving license. The application could take up to six weeks to process.
If you already have a German license, it's valid for 15 years. If it's due to expire you can renew it by bringing your driving license along with a passport photo to an authority for licensing in your area. You'll have to pay an amount that is usually around EUR24. führerschein ohne prüfung kaufen is essential to inform your licensing authority immediately in the event that you lose your German driver's license. This will prevent fraud and illegal actions. You'll need to submit an official letter stating that you will return your license in the event that it's found.
Can I obtain a German license if I already have a driving license?
If you hold an driving license issued by a country in the EU, EEA, or one of the countries that has a reciprocity agreement you can exchange it for a German license without having to pass any tests in theory or on the road. This is typically only possible if been driving for a long time and have established a regular residency in Germany and have registered your residence address with the authorities.
You'll still need to show proof of your identity and a passport photo. You must also register your vehicle with the authorities, and pass a safety check (TUV). In Germany, you must also have insurance for your car. You can find more information about this on our webpage on driving in Germany.
As a general rule you can only keep your driver's licence for 15 years. When you're getting close to the end of its validity it is recommended to arrange an appointment with the local driver licensing office at least four weeks prior to renew it. This will give you time to complete all necessary documentation. Bring your current driver's license, renewal form, and a recent passport photo.
The requirements for transferring your foreign driving license may vary depending the location you reside in. If you're unsure then you should contact your local driver's license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). They will be able to provide more detailed information.
You will need a copy of the original document, a signed statement (or theft report) as well as the passport photo. You'll also need to pass a medical test and a written or a practical driving test.
During the practical test, you will be asked about traffic laws in Germany. Then, you'll get the opportunity to show your driving skills on a public roadway. You'll receive your new German license within a few days in the event that you pass.
Can I obtain a German license if I already have an US driving license?
The rules differ based on the state where you obtained your license. The US is a nation where the individual states have jurisdiction over driver licensing, so each state can set its own rules. In Massachusetts for instance, drivers with a valid German license can drive in the USA for a period of one year without needing to exchange their US driving licenses or amend them.
If you intend to remain in the USA for a longer period, or who will return to Germany as resident, it is recommended to get an international driver's license while there. If you don't, you'll have to change your American driving license to one German one at the time you visit the Fuhrerscheinstelle in Germany.
You can find information about the process and the documentation required in Anlage 11 of the German Federal Road Traffic Act (Standard-Fahrzeugsteuergesetz, SFTG). The Anlage includes the states and countries in which drivers' licenses from the country is transferable without retaking a driving exam. It includes Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Minnesota, North Carolina, Nebraska, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia.
If you are not from a country or state that is listed in Anlage 11, or you are seeking a different type of license, you will be required to complete the full course of instruction and pass all tests. This involves signing up at driving school, taking the theory classes, passing an exam written (multiple-choice) test and a practical driving test to demonstrate that you understand the rules of the road and can drive a vehicle. The driving test is administered by an experienced and knowledgeable examiner. The cost of the theory and driving lessons will vary, but can run anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a couple thousand euros.
You are also required to purchase mandatory auto insurance. The cost will vary from company to company. You can compare quotes on the internet. Some of the biggest companies in Germany are DA Direkt and ADAC.