How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
If you move to Germany from a country or US state that has reciprocity with Germany then you could exchange your license. In some instances, however, you may be required to take the theory and practical test.
Prices can vary, so make sure you shop around. Also, be sure to select an accredited driving school.
What is a driver's licence?
A driving license is a document that allows you to drive a motor vehicle. It contains information about your name as well as your father's name and date of birth. It also contains the authorized vehicle types you can drive as well as an emergency contact number as well as fingerprints, blood group and a driver's photo. The driving licence also includes magnetic strips, even though it is not yet used.
To pass the driving test in Germany you must pass both the theoretical and practical tests. The driving test usually takes 45 minutes and is conducted by a certified examiner. The examiner will also ask you some general questions, and will ask you questions about German road signs, regulations and other details. After the test, the examiner will tell you straight away whether you passed or failed. If you pass the test you will be given an authorization slip that allows you to drive until you are able to take your license for after a few weeks.
When you are taking your driving test the most important thing to do is to be calm and relaxed. Most people fail their driving tests because they panic or don't remember the rules of the road. It is also essential to practice driving as much as you can before the actual exam particularly if you come from a country where the driving laws are different.
If you're staying in Germany for only a short period, then your driving license from your home country may suffice. However, if you're moving to Germany permanently you'll need a new license. Fortunately, most countries have reciprocal agreements with Germany and you can exchange your driving licence for a Fuhrerschein as soon as you've registered your address in Germany.
However, you must 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 to receive your license. It's expensive, but it is the only way you can legally drive a vehicle in Germany. You can locate driving schools that speak English on the internet using this search aggregater.
How do I get a German driver's license?
You could be able to exchange your driving license for a Fuhrerschein without needing to pass a theory test or practical test if you are a resident of an agreed-upon country with Germany. The procedure for doing this differs from one country to the next and therefore you should inquire with your local driving office for the most current information. In general, though you'll need to verify your residence and provide documents showing that you're healthy and have good eyesight. In certain instances, you'll also need to provide certificates attesting that your license is not suspended or removed.
If you are 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 have to pass an exam in theory and practice to be able to get a full-time license.
For those who come from an area that doesn't have an agreement with Germany or the United States, the process of getting a German driving license is more difficult. In the majority of instances, you'll have to complete a course in a driving school and pass a theory and practical test before you can obtain an Fuhrerschein. You'll need to register your car and complete the first-aid training.
You'll need to schedule an appointment with your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and present all the required documents. After your appointment, you'll get an email that informs you when you will be able to pick up your German driver's license. It could take between four and six weeks for the application to be processed.
If you already have an German license, it's valid for 15-years. If it's about to expire you can renew it by bringing your driver's license along with a passport photograph to a local licensing authority. You'll have to pay a small fee, usually around EUR24. It is important to inform your licensing authority immediately if you lose your German driver's license. This will help prevent fraudulent use of your identity and/or unlawful actions. You will need to submit an official letter that states you will return the license in the event of being found.
Can I get a German license even if I already have a foreign driving license?
If you are a holder of an driving license issued by a country within the EU, EEA, or one of the countries that has an agreement of reciprocity, you can exchange it for a German license without having to pass any tests in theory or on the road. fuhrerschein kaufen is typically only possible if been driving for a long period of time, have established normal residency in Germany and have registered your residence address with the authorities.
In this scenario you'll need to provide proof of your identity as well as a recent passport photograph. Additionally, you will need to register your vehicle with the authorities, and pass a safety inspection (TUV). In Germany, you must also have car insurance. More information can be found on our page about driving in Germany.
In general, you are able to keep your driving license for just 15 years. When you're close to the expiration date it is recommended to make an appointment with your local driver licensing office at minimum four weeks in advance to renew it. This will give you time to complete the application. You will need to bring the renewal form along with your current driving license and a recent passport photo along with you.
The specific requirements for obtaining an international driving licence may vary depending on the federal state in which you live. If you're not sure it is recommended that you get in touch with your local driver's licensing office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) for more personalized details.
You'll need a copy of the original document, a written statement (or theft report), and a passport photo. Then, you'll have to pass an oral or practical driving test, as well being able to pass a medical test.
During the test, you'll be asked questions about traffic laws in Germany. fuhrerschein kaufen 'll then be asked to demonstrate your driving skills on a highway that is public. If you pass, you'll receive your new German driving licence just a few weeks later.
Can I obtain a German driving license if I already have a US license?
The rules vary based on where you got your license. The US is a country in which each state has jurisdiction over driver licenses, and each state can set its own rules. For instance, in Massachusetts those who hold valid German driving license are able to drive in the USA for up to one year without having to exchange or have their US licenses amended.
It is recommended that those planning to remain in the USA longer than this time period or who will be returning to Germany as a permanent resident pick up an International Driver's License while they are there. In the event that you need to go to the Fuhrerscheinstelle (driving license authority) in Germany, you will have to give them your American license to obtain an German licence.
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 where the driver's license of that country may be transferred without retaking a driving test. The list 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'll be required to complete the full course of instruction and be able to pass all tests. This involves signing up at driving school, taking classes in theory, passing a written (multiple-choice) test, and passing an actual driving test in order to prove that you are familiar with the rules of the road and are able to handle a car. The driving exam is conducted by an experienced examiner. The cost of the theory and driving instruction will differ, but it can run anywhere between a few hundred and several thousand euros.
You will also have to obtain mandatory car insurance. Again, the prices will differ from company to company. You can compare prices on the internet. Some of the major companies in Germany include DA Direkt and ADAC.