How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a vital and valuable asset, not only because of its strict standards, but it also because it is recognised throughout Europe. Many expats want to exchange their EU/EEA driving licence for a German license once it expires.
What are the requirements?
There are a few requirements before you can buy a German license. These include the type of vehicle you intend to drive and your age. To obtain a class-B driver's license, you must be 18 years old. This is the minimum age for most passenger cars and small commercial vehicles. You can also obtain an E or class C license if you plan to drive heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses or a class T license for agricultural or forestry tractor. In some instances, you may need to pass a written or oral test before you are allowed to take a test.
Citizens of some countries can change their licenses to one of a German one without having to pass an exam. 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.
You'll have to pass an exam written and a practical test if you are not from one of these countries. In certain cases, you'll require an eye test or a medical examination.
When führerschein kaufen in deutschland to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact procedure varies. But generally you'll need to bring proof of insurance and a foreign driving license, as well as an official letter from your city or employer stating that your have moved to Germany. You may also need to show a photo.
The cost of the driving test will vary based on the area you reside in Germany. However, it is usually less than EUR100. Once you've passed the written and practical tests, your German driving license should be available for pickup within some weeks.
It is essential to know the requirements for a German driving license, since many foreigners are required to possess one to legally drive in the country. It can be difficult to use public transportation in rural areas and during severe weather. Having a car will simplify the process.
How do I obtain an German driver's 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 reciprocity in full or partial form and you wish to convert your license to a German one without having to take any tests. This process can be completed by making an appointment at your local authority for driver's licences which is known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need your original licence along with a proof of identity and a passport photograph. In most cases, you can get your German driving licence within four weeks.
If your licence was issued in the UK, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland or Andorra you are able to use it for up to six months prior to obtaining a German license. In order to do so, you will need to identify your residence address and complete an German test for language proficiency which is available at a private school or at the local language center.
The process of obtaining the German driving license can take a while but it's essential to be able to drive safely on the road. It can also make renting a car a lot easier since some rental companies require that you have an German driving license. Driving in Germany is a serious thing and should be treated accordingly.
It is recommended that you enroll in driving schools and get some practice behind the wheel in order to aid you in feeling more comfortable during your test. You can find a driving school through Farschule-123.com that lets you sort by location and the type of vehicle. Many driving schools also offer theory classes in different languages.
Renewal of your German driving licence is simple. Schedule an appointment with the office of your local driving license at least four weeks prior to the date your license expires. You'll need your license, a recent passport photo and pay a small amount of approximately 24 euros. Then, your new driving licence will be ready to pick up in four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
It is possible to obtain a German driver's licence without having to take the theory or practical test due to a reciprocity arrangement. However, most foreigners would be better off starting from the beginning. This means going through a driving school and paying a substantial amount of money.
Driving schools are available across the country and offer a range of classes, from an entry-level car course to a truck, bus or passenger transport licence. They are also able to provide you with theory classes in your native language. The cost can vary considerably in some places, with some charging less than others. The best way to find the right driving school is to ask around and check online reviews.
The process of converting an American driving license to a German driving licence could take between two and six months depending on whether you have a reciprocity agreement or not. If not have one, you must translate your driver's license in German to be done by a certified translator or an approved automobile organization. You can present the KBA registry extract in your country of birth as proof of residency.
You'll need to pass an actual test once you have all of 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 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 corresponding fee. Additionally, you will be required to prove that you passed a medical examination 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'll need a translated drivers' licence and medical certificate. Additionally, you will need to provide a certified translation of your passport and an image-based ID card.
Can I exchange my driving license from another country to get a German license?
If you're moving to one of the states or countries that has a reciprocity deal with Germany, it is relatively simple to exchange your license to one from Germany. This agreement is in place with 27 states, including New York, California and other states. If you hold an driving license from one of these states, you will not need to take an examination in the form of a written or driving test in Germany. You can get your full German license. You will be required to present your current driver's license, identification proof (usually a passport or a national ID card) and a recent photo. The requirements for each state (Lander) differ therefore it is advisable to check your local driving license authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle) prior to making an appointment.
You only need to exchange your license within the first six month of your residency. If you do not, this could be a violation of your residency permit. Authorities could decide to take action against you. If you are planning on using car-sharing services, many of which require the use of a European or German license and this is an additional reason to get this process going and start working towards obtaining your German license.
Those who are moving to Germany from outside the EU/EEA region can continue to utilize their driver's licence for up to a year after they have registered their address. They must, however, get it translated by a certified translation, a globally recognized automotive organisation, or a licensed interpreter. This is a crucial step as a lot of insurance companies won't insure drivers who are not from 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)". You can do this via the internet, by phone, or at the Burgerhaushalt offices. You'll need your current license, a certified translation of the license into German and your driver's record from your home country, and proof of identification. You will also have to pay a fee of about EUR35 that you can pay cash or via the transfer of funds from a bank. You will receive a confirmation mail once you have provided all the required documents.