How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
You can transfer your license if are moving to Germany from another state or country in the US that has reciprocity. In some instances however, you could be required to take the theory and practical test.
Prices can vary, so shop around! Select a driving school that is well-known.
What is a driving license?
A driving license is a document that permits you to drive a motor vehicle. It contains information about your name, your father's name and date of birth. It also includes the vehicle types that you are permitted to drive and an emergency contact number as well as fingerprints, blood group, and a driver photo. The driving license also has a magnet strip, though it isn't currently being used.
If you are taking an exam for driving in Germany you'll need to pass both a theoretical and practical test. The driving exam usually takes approximately 45 minutes and is conducted by a qualified examiner. The examiner will ask you questions about German road signs and regulations and also some general questions. After the test the examiner will inform you in person whether you passed or failed. If you pass, you will be issued a certificate which allows you to drive for a few weeks until you get your license.
If you are taking your driving test the most important thing is to be calm and relaxed. The most common reason that people fail the driving test is because they are scared and forget the rules of the road. It's also important to practice driving as much as you can before taking the test particularly if you come from a country where driving regulations differ.
If you're staying in Germany temporarily, your current license from your country of origin will suffice. If you're planning to permanently move to Germany then you'll require an updated driving license. Many countries have reciprocal agreements. you can exchange your license for the Fuhrerschein once you register your address in Germany.
However, you must first submit certificates attesting to your eyesight and health. It is also required to take driving lessons with an accredited German Fahrschule and take both the theoretical and practical exams before you can get your license. deutsche führerschein kaufen can be costly however it's the only way to legally drive a car in Germany. You can find driving schools in English on the internet by using this search aggregator.
How do I apply for a German driving license?
You could be able to exchange your driving license for a Fuhrerschein without having to pass a theory test or a practical test if are a resident of an agreed-upon country with Germany. The exact procedure varies from one country to the next, so you should contact the local driving office for current information. In general, you'll have to register your residence and provide documents to prove that you're healthy and have good eyesight. In certain instances you'll also be required to provide proof that your license has not been suspended or revoked.
If you're from Australia or New Zealand you can exchange your license without taking any tests. If you're from South Australia, Tasmania, or Victoria, however, you'll need to take an exam in theory and practice to obtain a full license.
The process for getting an German driver's license is more complicated for drivers who are from countries which don't have a formal agreement with Germany or the United States. You'll typically need to pass a theoretical and practical test, along with taking a course at a driving school in Germany before you can be granted the Fuhrerschein. You'll have to register your vehicle and take a first-aid course.
You'll need to schedule an appointment with your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and bring all the necessary documents. You'll receive a confirmation email after your appointment that will let you know when you'll be able to pick-up your German driving license. The application process can take up to six weeks to process.
Once you've obtained an German driving license valid for 15 years. If it's due to expire, you can renew it by bringing your driver's license along with a passport photograph to the local licensing authority. You'll have to pay an amount that is usually around EUR24. If you have lost your German driving license, you should contact the licensing authority immediately to prevent unauthorized use of your identity or illegal activities. You'll need to provide an official letter stating that you will return your license if it's found.
Can I obtain a German license in the event that I already have a driver's license?
If you have an driving license issued by one of the countries in the EU, EEA, or one of the countries that has an agreement on reciprocity that allows you to exchange it to obtain an German license without having to take any tests in theory or on the road. This is only feasible when the driver has been driving for a long time, if they have established a regular residence in Germany and registrated their residential address.
You will still be required to show proof of your identity and a passport photograph. You must also register your car with the authorities and pass a safety check (TUV). In Germany you also need to have car insurance. More information can be found on our page regarding driving in Germany.
In general, you can only keep your driver's licence for 15 years. It is recommended to renew your licence at least four weeks prior to the date on which it expires. This will allow you time to complete the paperwork. You'll need to bring the renewal form, your current driving licence and a recent passport photo with you.
The specific requirements for obtaining the foreign driving license may differ depending on the federal state in which you live. If you're unsure then you should contact your local driver's license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). They will be able to give you more detailed information.
When you're applying to exchange a foreign license to one of a German one, you'll need to provide an unwritten statement or theft report (as well as the original document) and an authentic passport photo. Then, you'll have to pass either a practical or written driving test, as well as pass a medical examination.
During the test, you will be asked about traffic laws in Germany. You'll then be given the opportunity to show your driving abilities on a public road. You will receive your new German license in a couple of days if you are successful.
Can I get a German driving license if I already have an US license?
The rules vary based on where you got your license. In the US every state has its own set of rules for driver licensing. In Massachusetts for instance drivers with an active German license are able to drive in the USA for up to one year without having to change their US driving licenses or have them modified.
It is recommended that those planning to remain in the USA for a longer duration or who plan on returning to Germany as a permanent resident pick up an International Driver's License while there. Otherwise, when you visit the Fuhrerscheinstelle (driving license authority) in Germany and you'll have to surrender your American license to obtain the German license.
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 contains the list of states and countries where a driver's licence from this country is transferable without retaking the driving test. 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 do not come from a country or state that is listed in Anlage 11 or you wish to take a different license class, you must complete the course of instruction and be able to pass the tests. This includes signing up for a driving course, taking the theory course and passing a multiple-choice examination and a test of practical to show that you know the rules of driving and can handle a vehicle. The test is administered by an experienced examiner. The cost of the theory and driving instruction will vary, but could range from a few hundred to two thousand euros.
You will also be required to purchase mandatory auto insurance. Prices will differ from one company to the next company. You can compare quotes on internet. Some of the major companies in Germany include DA Direkt and ADAC.