How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is an important and valuable asset, not only because of its rigorous standards, but also because it is recognized across Europe. It is not unusual for expats to wish to exchange their current licence to one from a German one once their EU / EEA driving license expires.
What are the requirements for the application?
You must meet several 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 obtain a class B driver's license which is required for the majority of passenger vehicles as well as small commercial vehicles. You can also obtain a class E or C license if you plan to drive large vehicles like buses and trucks. Also, you can get a class T for forest or agricultural tractors. In some cases you might need to pass a written or oral test before you are allowed to take a practical test.
Certain citizens of countries are able to swap their licenses for one of a German one without taking an examination. This applies to citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area and certain states in the U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand. South Korea, Japan.
If you're not from one of these countries, you will need to take a written and practical test prior to getting a German driver's license. In certain cases, you'll have to pass an eye test as well as a medical examination.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact process varies in each case, but you'll need to bring an official letter from your employer or the city stating that you have relocated to Germany and a proof of insurance, and a foreign license. You may also need to provide a photo.
The cost of the driving test will vary based on where you live in Germany. However it's typically less than EUR100. Once you've passed the practical and written tests, your German driving license will be available for pick-up within some weeks.
It's important to understand the requirements for the German license since many foreigners will need to have one to legally drive in the country. It isn't easy to use public transportation in rural areas, and in bad weather. A car could simplify the process.
How do I apply for a German driving license?
If you hold a driving license from another country in the European Union (EU) or from a country recognized by Germany as having full or partial reciprocity the possibility of converting your licence to a German one without having to take any exams. The process can be completed by making an appointment at your local authority for driver's licences, called the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring your original licence, a form of identification as well as a passport photo. In most cases, you can pick up your German driving licence within four weeks.
If your licence was issued in the UK, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland or Andorra, you can use it for up to six months prior to obtaining an German license. To get this license you must sign up for your address and take an German language exam which can be completed at a local language center or a private language school.
It may take some time to get the German license, but it's a must to be able to safely drive on the road. It can also make renting a car a lot easier since some rental agencies require at least a German driving license. Driving in Germany is a serious thing and should be treated accordingly.
It is recommended that you enroll in a driving school and get some practice behind the wheel, as it will aid you in feeling more comfortable during your test. You can find driving schools on Farschule-123.com that lets you sort by location and the type of vehicle. A lot of driving schools offer theory classes in a variety of languages.
Renewing your German driving license is simple. Simply make an appointment with your local licensing authority at least four weeks prior to when your licence expires. You'll need to bring your driving licence, a passport photo taken recently and pay a small amount of 24 euros. Then your new driving license will be available for you to collect in about four weeks.
Can I keep my American driving license?
Although it is possible to get an official driver's license in Germany without taking the theoretical or practical test due to a reciprocity agreement, the majority of expats should consider beginning from scratch. This requires attending a driving school and spending a significant amount of money.
You can find driving schools all over the country. They provide a broad selection of classes beginning with a basic driver's instruction in cars to a truck or bus license. You can also enroll in the theory course in your own language. The cost can vary considerably, with some charging less than others. Checking online and asking around reviews is the best method to find an appropriate driving school.
The process of converting an American driving licence to one that is a German driving licence could take between two and six months depending on whether you have a reciprocity agreement or not. If you do not have a reciprocity arrangement then you'll need a translator to translate your license into German. This can be done either by a sworn translation or an automobile organization. You could submit the KBA registry extract in your country of birth to prove of residency.
Once you have the necessary documents, you will need to take a practical test. During this exam, the driving instructor will sit in the seat of the passenger and you will drive the vehicle while being asked questions. You will receive your driving license within a few days after you pass.
If you fail the practical test, you will need to repeat the process with an additional instructor and pay the fee. You'll also have to show that you have passed the medical exam and, if necessary, 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). her response 'll need the driver's license in a translation and a medical certificate in this case. You will also need to provide a certified translation and a photocopy of your passport.
Can I exchange my license from abroad for one that is German one?
If you're moving to a state or country with a reciprocity agreement with Germany and Germany, the process of exchanging your license for one that is a German one is relatively simple. This agreement is in force with 27 states which include New York, California and others. If you have an official driving license from one of these states, then you will not need to take a written or road test in Germany. You can obtain your complete German license. You must show your current driver's license, identification proof (usually a passport or national ID card) and a recent photo. führerschein kaufen legal in deutschland vary between the federal states (Lander) and it is recommended to inquire with the local authority responsible for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before making an appointment.
You are only required to change your license within the first six month of your residency. If you fail to do this, it will be deemed a violation of your residency permit and authorities may take action against you. If you're planning on using car-sharing services, many of which require a European or German license This is a further reason to get this process started and work towards getting your German license.
Those who move to Germany from outside the EU/EEA area can keep their driver's license for up to 12 months after they have registered their address. However, they must get it translated by a sworn translation, an internationally recognized automotive organisation or a licensed interpreter. This is a crucial step as many insurance companies won't insure non-EU/EEA drivers 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)". This can be done online, over the phone or at the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will need your current license and an official German translation of your license, a copy of your driving record from your country of origin, and proof of identity. You will also need to pay a fee, that is about EUR35. This can be paid in cash or by bank transfer. You will receive a confirmation via mail after you have submitted all the required documents.