How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is an important and valuable asset, not only because of its rigorous standards but it also because it is recognised throughout Europe. Expats often want to change their driving licence from the EU/EEA for one with a German license when it expires.
What are the prerequisites for the application?
You must meet several conditions before you can purchase a German license. This includes the type of vehicle you wish to drive, and your age. To obtain a class-B driver's license, you must be at least 18 years old. This is the minimum age required for most passenger cars and small commercial vehicles. You can also apply for a class C or E license if you want to drive heavy vehicles such as buses and trucks or a class T license for forestry or agricultural tractor. In some instances, you may have to pass a written or oral test before being able to take a practical test.
Certain citizens of countries are able to swap their licenses for one that is a German one without having to take an examination. This includes citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area and certain states in the U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand. South Korea, Japan.
If you're not from one of these countries, you will have to pass a written and a practical test prior to getting the German driver's license. In certain cases, you'll need to pass an eye test or a medical examination.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact procedure differs. But generally you'll require proof of insurance and your foreign driving license, as well as an official letter from your city or employer stating that your have moved to Germany. You may be required to submit photos.
The cost of the driving test is different according to where you live in Germany however, it's generally less than EUR100. After you've completed both the written and practical test the German driving license will be ready to collect within several days.
It's crucial to understand the requirements of the German driving license, since many expats must possess one to legally drive in the country. It isn't easy to use public transportation in rural areas, and during severe weather. Car ownership can simplify the process.
How do I get a German driving license?
If you have a driving license from another country in the European Union (EU) or from a country recognized by Germany as having reciprocity either in full or in part, you can convert your licence to a German one without taking any tests. The process can be completed by making an appointment with your local driver's licensing authority, called the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need the original license along with a proof of identity as well as a passport photo. In the majority of cases your German licence will be available to pick up within four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK or Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, Switzerland, Andorra or Andorra you can use it up to six month before getting a German license. To obtain a German license you must identify your residence address and pass a German test of your language which is available through a private school or at the local language center.
The process of obtaining an German driving license can take a while, but it is an essential step to be competent to drive safely on the roads. It can also make renting a car easier, because some rental companies require that you have a German driving license. registrierten führerschein kaufen in Germany is a serious matter and should be treated with care.
It is recommended to enroll in driving lessons and practice driving. This will make you more comfortable when you take your test. You can locate a driving school through Farschule-123 that lets you filter by area and kind of vehicle. Additionally there are many driving schools that offer classes in various languages.
Renewing your German driving license is a simple process. Schedule an appointment with the local office for driving license renewal at least four weeks prior to your license expiring. You'll need to bring your license, a recent passport photo and pay a small fee of about 24 euros. Your new driving license will be issued in four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
It is possible to obtain an driver's license in Germany without having to pass the theoretical or practical test thanks to a reciprocity agreement the majority of expats would be better off starting from the beginning. This involves attending a driving school and paying a substantial amount of money.
Driving schools are available across the nation. They offer a wide selection of classes from a basic instruction in cars to a truck or bus license. You can also enroll in the theory course in your own language. The cost can vary considerably and some schools charging less than others. The best way to locate the right driving school is to ask around and check online reviews.
The process of converting an American driving license to a German one can take anywhere between two and six months, depending on the availability of the driving school and if you have a reciprocity agreement. If you do not have one, you must translate your driver's license into German and this can be done by a sworn translator or a recognized automobile organization. As an alternative, you can submit the KBA registry extract from your country of birth to prove of residency.
Once you have the necessary documents, you will need to take a practical test. During the test the instructor is in the passenger's seat as you drive the vehicle and respond to questions. If you pass, you'll be able to obtain your driving licence within a few weeks.
If you fail the practical test, you'll have to repeat the process with another instructor and pay an additional fee. You must also prove that you completed the medical examination and, if necessary, show a certificate for good eyesight.
You can also obtain a German driving license after a period of six months by submitting an application to your local driving licence authority (Fahrerlaubnisbehorde). You will need to provide an original driver's license translated and a medical certification in this case. You will also have to provide a certified translation and a photocopy of your passport.
Can I exchange my foreign driving license to get an German license?
If you're moving to one of the states or countries with a reciprocity agreement with Germany it's relatively simple to swap your license for one in Germany. This agreement is in place with 27 states that include New York, California and other states. If you have an driving license from one of these states, you don't have to pass a written or road test in Germany. You will be able to get your complete German license. You'll need to present your current driver's license, proof of your identity (usually a valid passport or national ID card) as well as a photograph that was taken in recent times. The requirements for each federal state (Lander) vary therefore it is advisable to confirm the requirements of your local driving license authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before making an appointment.
You are only required to change your license within the first six month of your residency. If you fail to do so, it will be considered a violation to your residency permit and authorities may take action against you. If you're planning to use car-sharing services, most of which require the use of a European or German license This is a further reason to get this process underway and begin working towards obtaining your German license.
People who move to Germany from outside the EU/EEA can continue using their driver's licence for a maximum of 12 months after they have registered their address. However, they must have it translated into German by a certified translator, an internationally recognized automobile organization or a licensed translator. This is a vital step, as many insurance companies won't insure drivers from outside the EU/EEA without a translation.
You will need to visit the road traffic department (Strassenverkehrsamt) or driving licensing office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) in your city and make an appointment for a "Umstellung eines Fuhrersscheines (Non-EU/Drittstaaten)". This can be done online, by phone or at the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will need your current license and a German translation of your license, your driving record from your country of origin, as well as proof of identity. Additionally, you will need to pay a fee that is about EUR35. This can be paid in cash or via bank transfer. After you have all the required documents you will be notified via mail that your application has been submitted (Bescheinigung). (Bescheinigung).