How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
If you are moving to Germany from a country or US state that has reciprocity with Germany then you can exchange your license. In some instances you might be required to pass a practical and theory exam.
Prices vary, so look around! Be such a good point to choose an accredited driving school.
What is a driver's licence?
A driving license is a document that allows you to operate in a vehicle. It includes information such as your name along with your father's name, as well as date of birth. It also includes the vehicle types that you can drive, an emergency contact number fingerprints, blood group and a photo of the driver. The driving licence also has magnetic strips, though this is not yet being used.
In order to pass the driving test in Germany you must pass both the theoretical and practical tests. The driving exam usually lasts for approximately 45 minutes, and is administered by a certified examiner. The examiner will ask you questions about German road signs and rules and also some general knowledge. The examiner will let you know whether you passed or not after the exam. If you pass the test, you will receive an authorization slip that allows you to drive until you get your license within a few weeks.
The most important thing to remember when you are taking the driving test is to relax and remain calm. The most common reason that people fail the driving test is because they are scared and don't know the rules of the road. It is also essential to practice driving as much as possible prior to the actual test, especially if you are from a country where the driving rules differ.
If you're only in Germany for a short period and you're driving a car, your license from your home country will probably suffice. If, however, you're moving to Germany permanently and you're planning to stay there for a long time, you'll need an additional license. Many countries have reciprocal agreements, and you can exchange your license for a Fuhrerschein when you register your address in Germany.
However, you must first present a certificate attesting to your health and eyesight. It's also necessary to take driving lessons with a certified German Fahrschule and take both the practical and theoretical tests before you can obtain your license. This can be expensive however it's the only way to legally operate the vehicle in Germany. You can find driving schools in English on the internet using this search aggregator.
How do I get a German driving license?
If you're a citizen of a state or country that has a partnership with Germany, it may be possible to exchange your driver's license to the Fuhrerschein (German driving licence) without taking a theory or practical test. The exact procedure is different from country to country, and you should consult the local driving office for the most up-to date information. In general, you will be required to verify your residency and submit documents that prove you are healthy and have clear vision. In certain instances, you could also be required to present certificates attesting that your license has not been suspended or cancelled.
For instance, if you're from Australia or New Zealand, you can exchange your license for one that's a German one without having to pass any tests. If you're from South Australia, Tasmania, or Victoria however you'll need to pass the theory and the practical test to get a full license.
If you're 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. You'll usually need to take a theory and a practical exam, as well as a course at a German driving school before you can be granted a Fuhrerschein. You'll need to register your car and complete the first-aid training.
You'll need to schedule an appointment with your Strassenverkehrsamt oder Fuhrerscheinstelle and bring the required documents. You'll receive a confirmation email following your appointment. It will tell you when you'll be able to pick-up your German driving license. The application process can take up to six weeks to process.
Once you've obtained an German driving license, it's valid for 15 years. If it's about to expire you can renew it by bringing your driving permit and a passport photo to an authority for licensing in your area. A small fee of EUR24 is required. It is essential 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 activities. You'll need to provide a letter stating you will return the license if found.
Can I get a German driving license if I have a foreign license?
If you hold driving licences from a country within the EU, EEA, or a country with an agreement of reciprocity that allows you to exchange it to obtain the German license without taking any theory or practical tests. This is only possible in the event that the driver has been driving for a long period of time, or has established a normal residence in Germany and registered their residence address.
In this situation you'll still be required to prove your identity and 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 be insured for your car. More information is available on our page regarding driving in Germany.
In such a good point , you can keep your driving license for a period of 15 years. You should renew your licence at least four weeks in advance of the date of expiration. This gives you enough time to complete all necessary documents. Bring your current driving license, the renewal form and a recent passport photograph with you.
The specific requirements for obtaining an international driving licence may differ depending on the federal state in which you live. If you are unsure then we suggest you get in touch with the local driver's licensing office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) for more specific information.
You will need a copy of the original document, a signed statement (or theft report), and a passport photo. You'll then need to pass an oral or practical driving test, as passing a medical exam.
During the practical driving test during the test, you'll be asked questions regarding traffic laws in Germany. Then you will be asked to demonstrate your driving skills on a public highway. If you pass, you'll receive your new German driving licence a few weeks later.
Can I get a German driving license if I already have an US license?
Rules vary based on the state where the license was issued. In the US each state has its own set of regulations regarding driver licenses. In Massachusetts, for example drivers who have valid German license are able to drive in the USA for up to one year without having to change their US driving licenses or amend them.
It is suggested that those who are planning to stay 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 during their stay in the United States. Otherwise, when you visit the Fuhrerscheinstelle (driving license authority) in Germany in Germany, you'll need to surrender your American license in exchange for the 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 states and countries where a driver's license issued by 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 are not from a state or country listed in Anlage 11 or you wish to obtain an alternative license, you have to complete the required course of instruction and successfully pass the test. This involves signing up at a driving school, taking the theory classes, passing the written (multiple-choice) test and an actual driving test to demonstrate that you understand the rules of the road and can drive a vehicle. The driving test is administered by an experienced and knowledgeable examiner. The cost of driving and theory lessons can range from a few hundred euros to a couple of thousand euros.
You will also be required to purchase mandatory auto insurance. Again, the prices will differ from company to company. You can compare quotes on internet. Some of the major companies in Germany include DA Direkt and ADAC.