How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
You can change your license if you are moving to Germany from another state or country in the US that has reciprocity. In deutschen registrierten führerschein kaufen may need to pass a theory and practical test.
Prices can vary, so look around! Select a driving school that is reputable.
What is a driving license?
A driving license is a document that allows you to operate the vehicle. It contains information like your name, your father's name and date of birth. It also includes the vehicle types that you are allowed to drive as well as an emergency contact number as well as fingerprints, blood group, and a driver photo. The driving license also comes with magnet strips, even though it is not currently in use.
In order to pass the driving test in Germany you must pass both the theory and practical tests. The driving test usually takes about 45 minutes and will be conducted by a qualified examiner. The examiner will ask you questions regarding German road signs and regulations and also some general questions. After the test the examiner will inform you straight away if you passed or failed. If you succeed, you will receive an authorization slip that allows you to drive until you are able to pick up your license after a few weeks.
When you are taking your driving test the most important thing to do is to be calm and relaxed. The most common reason people fail their driving test is because they are scared and forget the rules of the road. It is important to take as many driving lessons as you can prior to taking your driving exam, especially if the driving rules in your country are different.
If you're only staying in Germany temporarily, your current license from your country of origin will suffice. If you're moving permanently to Germany, you will need a new driving license. Many countries have reciprocal agreements, and you can exchange your license for a Fuhrerschein after you have registered your address in Germany.
You have to present your first certificates that confirm your health and vision. You must also take driving lessons at an German Fahrschule, and pass both the theoretical and practical tests before you are able to get your license. This can be expensive however it's the only way to legally operate the vehicle in Germany. You can locate driving schools in English online using this search aggregater.
How do I get a German driving license?
If you're a resident of a country or state that has a partnership with Germany It may be possible to exchange your driver's licence for an Fuhrerschein (German driving licence) without taking a theory or practical test. The exact procedure differs between countries, and you should consult the local driving office for the most up-to date information. In general, you'll need to register your residency and submit documents that prove you're healthy and have a clear and sharp vision. In some cases you'll also be required to provide certificates attesting that your license is not suspended or revoked.
For example, if you're from Australia or New Zealand, you can change your license to one of a German one without needing to take any tests. If you're from South Australia, Tasmania, or Victoria, however you'll need to pass a theory and practical test to obtain a full license.
For those who are coming from a country that does not have an agreement with Germany or the United States, the process of obtaining a German driving license is more difficult. It is common to have to take a theory and a practical exam, as well as a course at a German driving school before you can be granted Fuhrerschein. You'll also need to sign up your vehicle and complete an initial aid course.
You'll need to make an appointment with your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and bring the required documentation. After your appointment, you'll receive an email that informs you when you will be able to pick up your German driver's license. It can take four to six weeks for your application to be processed.
If you already have a German license, it's valid for 15 years. If it's about to expire you can renew it by bringing your driving permit along with a passport photograph to an authority for licensing in your area. A small fee of around EUR24 is required. It is important to inform your licensing authority immediately if you lose your German driver's license. This will stop fraud and unlawful actions. You'll need to submit a letter stating you will return the license if found.
Can I obtain a German driving license if I already have an international license?
If you hold an driving license issued by one of the countries in the EU, EEA, or one of the countries that has an agreement on reciprocity, you can exchange it for an German license without having to pass any practical or theory tests. This is only a possibility when the driver has been driving for some time, if they have established a permanent residence in Germany and registered their residence address.
In this case, you will still require proof of your identity as well as a recent passport photograph. You will also need to register your vehicle with authorities and pass a safety test (TUV). In Germany you are also required to be insured for your car. More information about this on our page on driving in Germany.
In general, you can only keep your driver's license for 15 years. When you're getting close to the end of its validity you must make an appointment with your local driver licensing office at least four weeks in advance to renew it. This will allow you time to complete the paperwork. Bring your current driver's license, renewal form, and a recent passport photo with you.
The requirements for transferring your foreign driving license can differ depending the location you reside in. If you aren't sure, we recommend that you contact the local office for driver's licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) to get more detailed details.
When you're applying to exchange a foreign driving licence to one of a German one, you'll need to provide a written statement or theft report (as well as the original document) and an authentic passport photo. You'll also need to pass a medical test as well as a written or practical driving test.
During the practical test, you'll be asked questions about traffic laws in Germany. You'll then be asked to demonstrate your driving skills on a public highway. If you pass, you'll receive your new German driving license within a few weeks.
Can I obtain a German driving license if I already have a US license?
Rules vary depending on the state where your license was issued. In the US, each state has its own set of rules for driver licensing. For instance, in Massachusetts drivers with valid German driving licence can drive in the USA for up to a year without having to exchange or have their US licenses amended.
If you plan to remain in the USA for a longer period, or who will return to Germany as resident, it is recommended to obtain an international driver's licence while there. If you do not, when you go to the Fuhrerscheinstelle (driving license authority) in Germany in Germany, you'll need to hand over your American license to obtain an 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 includes the states and countries in which a driver’s license from the country is transferable without having to retake a 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 are not from a state or country which is listed in Anlage 11, or you are seeking an alternative class of license, you will be required to complete the full course of instruction and complete all tests. This involves signing up at an instructor at a driving school, learning theory lessons and passing an exam written (multiple-choice) test and an actual driving test to show that you know the rules of the road and that you can drive a vehicle. The driving exam is conducted by an experienced examiner. The cost of driving lessons and theory can range from a few hundred euros to a few 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 largest companies in Germany include DA Direkt and ADAC.