How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
You can change your license if you are moving to Germany from another state or country within the US that has reciprocity. In some cases, however, you may be required to take the theory and practical test.
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What is a driver's license?
A driving license is a document that permits you to drive a motor vehicle. It includes information such as your name along with your father's name, as well as date of birth. It also includes the types of vehicles you are allowed to drive, an emergency contact number, blood group, fingerprints, and a driver photo. The driving license also includes a magnet strip, 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 about 45 minutes and will be conducted by a certified examiner. The examiner will ask you questions about German road signs and rules along with some general information. The examiner will let you know if you have passed or not after the test. If you succeed you will be given an authorization slip that allows you to drive until you can take your license for a few weeks later.
The most important thing to remember when you are taking the driving exam is to relax and remain calm. The most frequent reason why people fail the driving exam is because they are scared and don't know the rules of the road. It is essential to take as many driving lessons as you can prior to taking your driving test, especially if the driving rules in your country are different.
If you're staying in Germany for only a short duration and you're driving a car, your license from your home country may suffice. If you're planning to move permanently to Germany, you will need a new license to drive. Many countries have reciprocal agreements and you can exchange your license for the Fuhrerschein once you register your address in Germany.
But, deutschen registrierten führerschein kaufen must first present a certificate attesting to your health and eyesight. You also must take driving lessons at a German Fahrschule and pass both the theoretical and practical tests before you can get your license. It's expensive, but this is the only way to legally drive a vehicle in Germany. This search engine will help you find driving instructors who speak English on the internet.
How do I get 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 for a Fuhrerschein (German driving license) without the need to pass the test in either theory or practice. The procedure for doing this differs from one country to the next and therefore you should inquire with the local driving office to get up-to-date details. In general, you'll have to declare your residency and provide documents that prove you're healthy and have a clear vision. In some cases you may also be required to present certificates attesting that your license has not been suspended or revoked.
If you're from Australia or New Zealand you can exchange your license without having to take any tests. If you're from South Australia, Tasmania, or Victoria, however you'll need to pass an exam in theory and practice to be able to get a full-time license.
The process for getting an German driver's license is more difficult for those who come from countries which don't have a formal agreement with Germany, or from the United States. You'll typically need to pass a theoretical and practical exam, as well as taking a course at a German driving school, before you can obtain a Fuhrerschein. You'll have to register your vehicle and complete a first-aid course.
You'll need to make an appointment with your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and bring the required documents. You'll receive a confirmation letter after your appointment that will let you know when you'll be able to pick-up your German driving license. It can take four to six weeks for the application to be processed.
Once you've obtained an German driving license valid for 15 years. You can renew your license if it is nearing expiration by presenting a passport photograph along with your driving license to the local licensing authority. A small fee of EUR24 is required. If you lose your German driving license, it's best to contact your licensing authority right away to prevent fraudulent use of your identity or unlawful activities. You'll need to submit an official letter stating that you will return your license in the event that it's found.
Can I get a German driving license if I have an international license?
If you are a holder of driving licences from a country within 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 if the driver has been driving for a long time, and has established a normal residence in Germany and registered their residential address.
In this situation, you will still need to provide proof of your identity and a recent passport photo. You must also register your car with authorities and pass a safety check (TUV). In Germany you also need to be insured for your car. More information about this on our page about driving in Germany.
In general you are able to keep your driving license for just 15 years. If you're nearing the end of its validity you must make an appointment with your local driver licensing office at least four weeks prior to renew it. This is to give you time to complete all the necessary paperwork. You will need to bring the renewal form, your current driving licence and a recent passport photo with you.
The specific requirements for obtaining a foreign driving licence can differ depending on the federal state in which you live. If you're unsure, you can contact the local driver license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). They'll be able to provide more specific information.
When you're applying to exchange a foreign license for one that is a German one, you'll require an unwritten statement or theft report (as well as the original document) and a valid passport photograph. You'll also need to pass a medical examination and a written or a practical driving test.
During the driving test, which is a practical one You'll be asked questions regarding traffic laws in Germany. Then, you'll get the opportunity to show your driving skills on a public road. If you're successful, you will be issued a new German driving license a few weeks later.
Can I get a German driving license if I already have an US license?
The rules differ based on the place you got your license. The US is a country where the individual states have jurisdiction over driver licensing, which means that each state is able to establish its own rules. For instance, in Massachusetts those who hold a valid German driving license are able to drive in the USA for up to a year without exchange or having their US licenses changed.
It is recommended that those who plan to remain in the USA for a longer period or who will be returning to Germany as a permanent resident pick up an International Driver's License while they are in the USA. In the event that you need to go to the Fuhrerscheinstelle (driving license authority) in Germany in Germany, you'll need 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 contains the states and countries in which drivers' licenses from that country may be transferred 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're not from a country or state which is listed in Anlage 11, or you would like to obtain a different type of license, you'll be required to complete the full course of instruction and pass all tests. This includes enrolling in a driving school as well as taking classes in theory and passing a multiple-choice examination, and a practical test to show that you know the rules of driving and are able to handle a vehicle. The driving test is administered by an experienced examiner. The cost of the theory and driving classes will vary, but can run anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand euros.
You'll also need to purchase mandatory car insurance. Prices will vary from company to company. Compare prices online. Some of the biggest companies in Germany are DA Direkt and ADAC.