How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
You can exchange your license if you are moving to Germany from another state or country in the US that has reciprocity. In certain situations, you might need to pass a theory and practical test.
Prices vary, so be sure you compare prices. Be sure to choose an accredited driving school.
What is a driver's permit?
A driving license is a document that permits you to operate a motor vehicle. It includes information like your name, father's name, date of birth, address, authorized vehicle types, emergency contact, fingerprint impression and driver's photo. führerschein kaufen ohne prüfung driving license also comes with a magnetic strip though this is not yet in use.
If you are taking a driving exam in Germany you'll need to pass both a theory and practical test. The driving test typically lasts 45 minutes and is administered by a certified examiner. The examiner will also ask general questions and inquire about German road signs, rules and other details. After the exam, the examiner will tell you in person whether you passed or failed. If you pass, you'll be given a slip that allows you to drive for a few weeks until you can get your license.
When you are taking your driving test, the most important thing to do is to remain calm and relaxed. Most people fail their driving tests because they panic or don't remember the rules of road. It is also essential to practice driving as much as you can before the actual exam especially if you're from a country where driving regulations differ.
If you're only in Germany for a brief period, then your driving license from your home country will probably suffice. If, however, you're moving to Germany permanently, you'll need to get an additional license. Most countries have reciprocal agreements and you can exchange your license for a Fuhrerschein once you register your address in Germany.
You have to present your first certificates attesting your health and vision. It is also essential to take driving lessons with a certified German Fahrschule and take both the theory and practical examinations before you are able to get your license. It can be costly however it's the only way to legally drive the vehicle in Germany. You can find English-speaking driving schools online using this search aggregator.
How do I obtain a German driver's license?
If you're from one of the states or countries which has a relationship with Germany, it may be possible to exchange your driver's license in exchange for an Fuhrerschein (German driving license) without the need to pass an exam in theory or on the road. The exact procedure varies from country to country and you should check with your local driving office for the most up-to date information. In general, you'll need to register your residency and provide proof that prove you're healthy and have a clear and sharp vision. In certain instances you'll also be required to provide certificates attesting that your license isn't suspended or cancelled.
For instance, if from Australia or New Zealand, you can swap your license for a German one without needing to take any tests. If you are from South Australia or Tasmania, however, a theory and practical exam is required in order to obtain a full driving 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 the German driving license is more difficult. You'll typically need to pass a theoretical and practical test, and a course at a driving school in Germany, before you can obtain a Fuhrerschein. You'll also need to sign up your car and attend a first aid course.
You'll have to schedule an appointment at your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and present all the required documents. führerschein kaufen 'll receive a confirmation email following your appointment. It will tell you when you'll be able to pick-up your German driving license. It could take anywhere from four to six weeks for your application to be processed.
If you already have an German license, it is valid for 15-years. If it's coming up for expiration you can renew it by bringing your driver's license along with a passport photograph to an authority for licensing in your area. You'll need to pay an amount that is usually around EUR24. It is essential to inform your licensing authority immediately when you lose your German driver's license. This will help prevent fraudulent use of your identity and/or illegal actions. You'll need to submit an official letter stating that you will return your license if it is found.
Can I apply for a German license in the event that I already have a driving license?
If you are a holder of an driving license issued by a country in the EU, EEA, or one that has an agreement of reciprocity you can exchange it to obtain a German license without having to pass any theory or practical tests. This is only possible in the event that the driver has been driving for a long time, and has established a regular residence in Germany and registrated their residential address.
In this situation you'll still require proof of 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 are also required to have insurance for your car. More details can be found on our page on driving in Germany.
As a general rule you can only keep your driver's licence for 15 years. It is recommended to renew your license at least four weeks before the date on which it expires. This will give you time to complete the application. Bring your current driver's license, renewal form and a current passport photo.
The requirements for exchanging your foreign driving license may vary based the location you reside in. If you're unsure, you can contact the local driver license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). They will be able to give you more specific information.
When you're applying to exchange a foreign driving licence to a German one, you will 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 test as well as a written or practical driving test.
During the practical test you'll be asked questions regarding traffic laws in Germany. Then, you'll get the chance to demonstrate your driving abilities on a public road. If you pass, you'll be issued a new German driving license a few weeks later.
Can I obtain a German license if I already have a US driving license?
The rules vary based on the state where you obtained your license. The US is a nation where the individual states have jurisdiction over driver licenses, and each state is able to establish its own rules. 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 modified.
If you plan to remain in the USA for longer than this time frame, or return to Germany as resident, it is advisable to pick up an international driver's licence while there. In the event that you need to go to the Fuhrerscheinstelle (driving license authority) in Germany in Germany, you'll need to give them 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 list of countries and states where a driver's license issued by this country is transferable without having to retake the 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 country or state included in Anlage 11 or you wish to take a different license class, you must complete the course of instruction and pass the tests. This means signing up with an instructor at a driving school, learning classes in theory, passing a written (multiple-choice) test, and a practical driving test to show that you know the rules of the road and can manage a car. The driving test is conducted by an experienced examiner. The cost of the theory and driving classes will vary, but can range between a few hundred and several thousand euros.
You'll also have to purchase mandatory car insurance. Prices will differ from one company to another. Compare quotes online. Some of the major companies in Germany include DA Direkt and ADAC.