How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a valuable asset not only due to its high standards however, its recognition is widespread across Europe. Expats often want to change their driving licence from the EU/EEA for a German license after it expires.
What are the prerequisites for the application?
You must meet a number of conditions before you can purchase a German license. This includes the type of vehicle that you want to drive and your age. You must be at least 18 years old to get a driver's license class B, which is required for all passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also get a class E or C license if you wish to drive large vehicles such as buses and trucks. A class T license is required for forest or agricultural tractors. You may need to pass an written or oral test in certain situations before you can sit for the test in the practical.
Some countries permit citizens to exchange their licenses with licenses that are a German one, without having to pass a test. This is applicable to citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area and certain states in the U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand. South Korea, Japan.
You will need to pass a written test and a practical test if you're not from one these countries. In some cases you may need to pass an eye test or a medical examination.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The process for applying varies, but generally, you'll need to bring a letter from your employer or city stating that you've relocated to Germany and a proof of insurance, as well as your foreign license. You may also have to show a photo.
The cost of the driving test is different dependent on where you reside in Germany, but it is generally less than EUR100. After you've completed both the written and practical test the German driving license will be ready for collection within several days.
It's important to understand the requirements for a German license as a lot of expats will require one to legally drive in the country. Public transportation can be a hassle and uncomfortable for those living in rural areas, particularly during bad weather, so having a car is often a necessity.
How do I get a German driving license?
If you hold a driver's license from another country in the European Union (EU) or from a country that is recognized by Germany as having reciprocity in full or partial form the possibility of converting your license to one that is a German one without taking any tests. You can do this by booking an appointment at the local authority for driver's licenses which is also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need the original license, a form or identification and a passport picture. In the majority of cases, you can obtain your German driving licence in four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK or Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, Switzerland, Andorra or Andorra you can use it for a maximum of six month before getting a German licence. In order to do so you must identify your residence address and pass a German test for language proficiency which is available through a private school or at the local language center.
The process of obtaining a German driving license can take a bit of time however, it is a necessary step to being competent to drive safely on the roads. It can also help you rent a car simpler, as certain rental agencies may require a German license. Driving in Germany is a serious thing and should be treated with care.
It is recommended to sign up for a driving class and practice driving. This will help you become more comfortable before taking your test. You can locate driving schools through the website Farschule-123, which allows you to sort by location and the type of vehicle. führerschein kaufen driving schools also offer theory classes in a variety of languages.
Renewal of your German driving license is a straightforward process. You should make an appointment at the office of your local driving license at minimum four weeks before the date your license expires. You will be required to bring your driving license, a passport photo taken recently and pay a tiny amount of 24 euros. Your new driving license will be ready in four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
It is possible to get the German driver's license without having to pass the theory or practical test, thanks to an arrangement of reciprocity. However, the majority of foreigners would be better off starting at the beginning. This means going through a Fahrschule (driving school for drivers) and paying a significant sum of money.
You can find driving schools across the country. They offer a wide selection of classes beginning with a basic driver's car course to a bus or truck license. They can also to give you theory classes in your language. Some schools are cheaper than others. Checking online and asking around reviews is the best way to locate the right driving school.
echten führerschein kaufen erfahrungen of changing an American driving license to a German one could take between two and six months, depending on the availability of the driving school and whether or not you have an agreement for reciprocity. If you do not have a reciprocity arrangement it is necessary to hire a translator to translate your license into German. This is done through a certified translation or by an automobile organization. Alternatively, you can submit an extract of the registry from the KBA in your country of origin as proof of residency.
You will need to take a practical test once you have all the required documents. During this, the driving instructor will be in the front seat and you will drive the car while being asked questions. If you pass, you will be able to pick up your driving license a few weeks later.
If you fail the practical test, you'll have to take the test again with another instructor and pay a fee. Additionally, you will need to prove that you completed a medical exam and, if required, show a certificate of good eye sight.
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 certificates. Additionally, you will need to present a certified translation of your passport along with an image-based ID card.
Can I exchange my foreign license for one in Germany? German one?
If you're moving to one of the states or countries which has a reciprocity arrangement with Germany it's relatively easy to exchange your license to one from Germany. The agreement is in place with 27 states that include New York, California and others. If you hold a driving license from one of these states, then you won't need to take a written or road test in Germany. You will be able to get your complete German license. You'll need to present your current driver's license, proof of identity (usually an original passport or a national ID card) as well as a photograph that was taken in recent times. The exact requirements vary between the federal states (Lander) and it is best to consult your local driving licensing authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before making an appointment.
You are only required to change your license within the first six month of your residency. If you do not do this, it will be considered a violation of your residency permit, and the authorities could decide to take action against you. If you plan to use car-sharing services, most of which require the use of a European or German license, this is even more reason to get this process underway and begin working towards obtaining your German license.
Those who move to Germany from outside the EU/EEA can keep their driver's license for a maximum of 12 months after they register their address. However they must get it translated into German by a sworn translator or an internationally recognized automotive organization or a licensed translator. This is an important step as many insurance companies will not 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)". You can do this on the internet, via phone, or at the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need your current license, a translation of the license into German as well as your driver's license from your home country, and evidence of identification. You will also have to pay a fee which is around EUR35. This can be paid in cash or via bank transfer. When you have all the required documents you will be notified via email that your application has been submitted (Bescheinigung).