How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is an important and valuable asset, not only because of its strict standards, but also because it is recognised throughout Europe. It is not unusual for expats to to exchange their current licence to one that is a German one when their EU / EEA driving license expires.
What are the requirements?
There are a variety of requirements for purchasing a German driving license, such as the type of vehicle you want to drive as well as your age. You must be at least 18 years old in order to obtain an official driver's license of class B, which is required for the majority of passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also apply for a class C or E license if you plan to drive heavy vehicles, such as trucks and buses or a class T license for forestry or agricultural tractor. In certain instances, you may have to pass an oral or written test before being able to take a test.
Some countries allow their citizens to exchange their licenses with one that is a German one without the requirement of passing an exam. This includes citizens of countries that are part of the European Union or the European Economic Area as well as 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.
You'll need to pass both an exam written and a practical test if you're not from one of these countries. In some cases you may require an eye test as well as an examination for medical reasons.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The procedure for applying for a driving license is different in each case, but you'll need to bring a letter from your employer or city in which you've moved to Germany, proof of insurance, and your foreign license. You may also have to show a photo.
The cost of the test depending on where you live in Germany however, it's generally less than EUR100. After you've passed the written and practical tests and passed the written test, your German driving license should be available for pickup within several weeks.
It is essential to know the requirements of the German driving license, since many expats must have one in order to drive legally in the country. Taking public transportation can be a hassle and uncomfortable for those living in rural areas, particularly in bad weather, which is why having a car is often essential.
How do legal führerschein kaufen apply for a German driving license?
You can convert a driving licence from an EU country or one recognized by Germany for full or partial reciprocity to an German license without taking any tests. The process can be completed by making an appointment at the local authority for driver's licenses which is known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring the original license along with a proof of identity and a passport photo. In most cases, your German licence will be available to pick up in about four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK or Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, Switzerland, Andorra or Andorra you can use it up to six months before obtaining the German license. In order to do so you must register your residence address and complete the German test of your language, which can be taken at a private school or at the local language center.
It may take some time to obtain the German license however, it's essential to be able to safely drive on the roads. Additionally, it can make renting a car easier, since some rental agencies may require a German license. Driving in Germany is a serious matter and must be handled accordingly.
It is recommended to sign up for driving lessons and practice behind the wheels. This will make you more comfortable when you take your test. Farschule123 lets you to find a driving school by location and vehicle type. A lot of driving schools offer theory classes in different languages.
Renewing your German driving license is easy. Make an appointment with your local driving license authority at least four weeks prior to when your licence expires. You'll need to bring your license, a recent passport photo, and pay a small amount of around 24 euros. Then, your new driving licence will be ready for you to pick up within four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
It is possible to get the German driver's license without having to take the practical or theory test, thanks to an arrangement of reciprocity. However, many expats should consider starting at the beginning. This means going through a driving school and spending a significant amount of money.
You can find driving schools all over the country. They offer a wide selection of classes from a basic instruction in cars to a truck or bus license. They can also to offer you a theory course in your language. The price can be a bit different in some places, with some charging less than others. Checking online and asking around reviews is the best way to find an appropriate driving school.
The process of converting an American driving license to a German one can take anywhere between two and six months, based on the availability of the driving school and if you have an agreement of reciprocity. If you don't have a reciprocity agreement it is necessary to hire a translator to translate your license into German. This can be done either by a sworn translation or through an automobile association. You can also submit an extract of your registry from the KBA in the country of origin to prove of residency.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you will need to attend a practical exam. During the exam, the instructor will sit in the passenger seat and you will drive the car while being asked questions. If you pass, you'll be able to get your driving license a few weeks later.
If you fail the practical exam in the exam, you'll need to repeat the entire process with a different instructor and pay the appropriate fee. You'll also have to show that you have completed the medical examination and, if required, show a certificate for 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). You will need to provide a translated driver's license as well as a medical certificate in this case. You will also be required to provide a translation that is certified and photocard of your passport.
Can I exchange my driving license from another country for an German license?
If you're moving to one of the states or countries that has a reciprocity deal with Germany it's relatively easy to exchange your license to one from Germany. This agreement is in force with 27 states, including New York, California and other states. If you hold an driving license from one of these states, then you don't have to pass 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 licence and identification proof (usually a passport or a national ID card) as well as a recent photo. The requirements for each state (Lander) vary therefore it is advisable to verify the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before making an appointment.
It is only necessary to exchange your license for one that is a German one within the first six months of your residency. If you don't, you could be deemed to be in violation of your residency permit. Authorities could be able to take action against you. If you intend to utilize car-sharing services that require a European license or a German license It is more important to start the process of getting your German licence.
Those who move to Germany from outside the EU/EEA can continue to use their driver's license for up to 12 months after they have registered 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 a crucial step, as many insurance companies will not insure drivers who are not from the EU/EEA without 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 will require your current license as well as the German translation of your license, a copy of your driving history from the country of origin, and identification proof. You will also need to pay a fee that is about EUR35. This can be paid in cash or through a bank transfer. You will receive a confirmation by mail once you have provided all the required documents.