How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
If you decide to move to Germany from a foreign country or US state that has reciprocity with Germany then you can exchange your license. In certain situations you might be required to pass the theory and practical test.
Prices vary, so be sure you compare prices. Select a driving school that is reputable.
What is a driving license?
A driving license is a document that allows you to drive a motor vehicle. It contains information such as your name, father's name, date of birth, address, vehicle types, emergency contact, fingerprint impression, and driver photo. The driving license also includes magnet strips, even though it isn't currently in use.
To pass the driving test in Germany, you must pass both the theoretical and practical tests. The driving test typically takes 45 minutes and is administered by a certified examiner. The examiner will also ask you some general questions and inquire about German road signs, regulations and other information. The examiner will let you know if you have passed or not after the test. If you pass the test you will be issued the certificate that permits you to drive until you pick up your license after a few weeks.
When you take your driving test, the most important thing to do is to remain calm and relaxed. The most frequent reason why people fail their driving test is because they panic and forget the rules of the road. It is essential to take as many driving lessons as possible before the driving test, particularly when the driving regulations in your country differ.
If you're in Germany for only a short time and you're driving a car, your license from your home country should suffice. However, if you're moving to Germany permanently you'll need an additional license. Fortunately, most countries have reciprocal agreements with Germany and you can exchange your driving license in exchange for Fuhrerschein Fuhrerschein once you register your address in Germany.
But, you must first submit certificates that prove your health and eyesight. You must also complete driving lessons at an German Fahrschule, and pass both the theoretical and practical tests before you can be granted a license. It can be costly, but it is the only way to legally drive vehicles in Germany. This search engine can assist you in finding driving instructors in English on the Internet.
How do I apply for a German driving license?
If you're from a state or country that has an agreement with Germany it could be possible to exchange your driver's licence in exchange for the Fuhrerschein (German driving license) without taking an exam in theory or on the road. The exact procedure differs from country to country and you should contact your local driving office for the most up-to-date information. In general, you will need to register your residency and provide proof that prove you're healthy and have a clear and sharp vision. In some cases, you'll also need to provide proof that your license is not 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 pass a theory and practical test to get 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 an German driving license is more difficult. In most instances, you'll need take a course at an driving school and pass a theory and practical test before you can obtain a Fuhrerschein. motorradführerschein kaufen 'll have to register your car and complete a first-aid course.
You'll need to make an appointment with your Strassenverkehrsamt oder Fuhrerscheinstelle and bring the required documentation. You'll receive a confirmation email after your appointment. It will inform you when you'll be able to pick-up your German driving license. The application could take up to six weeks to process.
If you've got the German driving license, it's valid for 15 years. You can renew your license if it is close to expiring by bringing a passport picture and your driving license to the local licensing authority. There's an amount that is usually around EUR24. It is essential to inform your licensing authority immediately if you lose your German driver's license. This will stop fraudulent use of your identity and/or unauthorised activities. You'll have to provide a letter stating that you will return your license if it is discovered.
Can I get a German driving license if I already have a foreign license?
If you are a holder of a driving license from one of the countries in the EU, EEA, or one that has a reciprocity agreement, you can exchange it to obtain an German license without having to take any theory or practical tests. This is only a possibility when the driver has been driving for a period of time, if they have established a permanent residence in Germany and registered their residential address.
In this case you'll still need to provide proof of your identity and a current passport photograph. You must also register your car with the authorities and pass a safety test (TUV). In Germany you are also required to have car insurance. More information can be found on our page about driving in Germany.
In general you can keep your driver's license for a period of 15 years. You should renew your licence at least four weeks in advance of the expiration date. This will allow you time to complete the necessary paperwork. Bring your current driving license, the renewal form and a current passport photograph with you.
The specific requirements for obtaining the foreign driving license may differ based on the federal state where you live. If you're unsure, you can contact the local driver license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). They will be able to provide more details.
You will need a copy of the original document, a signed statement (or theft report) as well as an image of your passport. You'll then need to pass an oral or practical driving test, as well passing a medical exam.
During the test, you'll be asked questions regarding traffic laws in Germany. Then, you'll get the chance to demonstrate your driving skills on a public roadway. If you're successful, you will receive your new German driving licence a few weeks later.
Can I obtain a German driving license if I already have a US license?
Rules differ based on the country from which the license was issued. The US is a nation where states have authority over driver licenses, and each state has the ability to set its own rules. For instance, in Massachusetts, people who have an active German driving licence can drive in the USA for up to a year without having to exchange or have their US licenses changed.
If you plan to stay in the USA for longer than this time, or return to Germany as resident, it is recommended to obtain an international driver's license while in the USA. If you do not, when you go to the Fuhrerscheinstelle (driving license authority) in Germany, you will have to surrender your American license in exchange for 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 list of countries and states where a driver's license from the country can be transferred without retaking the 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're not from a country or state that 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 a driving school, taking the theory classes, passing the written (multiple-choice) test, and passing an actual driving test to show that you know the rules of the road and that you can handle a car. The driving test is administered by a professional examiner. The cost of the theory and driving lessons will vary, but could range from a few hundred dollars to a couple thousand euros.
You will also have to obtain mandatory car insurance. Prices can differ from one firm to another. Compare quotes online. Some of the major companies in Germany include DA Direkt and ADAC.