How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is a crucial and valuable asset, not just because of its rigorous standards, but also because it is recognised throughout Europe. Many expats want to exchange their driving license from the EU/EEA to a German license once it expires.
What are the requirements?
There are many requirements to buying the German driving license, including the kind of vehicle you wish to drive as well as your age. You must be at least 18 years old in order to obtain a class B driver's license which is required for most passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also obtain an E or class C license if you want to drive heavy vehicles such as buses and trucks, or a class T license for agricultural or forestry tractors. In some instances you will need to pass an oral or written test before being allowed to take a test.
Citizens of some countries can swap their licenses for one that is a German one without taking an exam. This includes citizens of countries that are part of the European Union or the European Economic Area, as in addition to those from Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Hong Kong, San Marino, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Switzerland, France and the U.S.A (certain states), and Singapore.
If you're not from one of these countries, then you'll have to take a written and practical test prior to obtaining an German driver's license. In some instances you may also have to pass a medical examination and an eye test.
When motorradführerschein kaufen to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The process for applying varies however, generally, you'll need an official letter from your employer or city stating that you have relocated to Germany, proof of insurance, and your foreign license. You may need to include an image.
The cost of the test depending on where you live in Germany, but it is generally less than EUR100. After you have passed both the written and practical test, your German driving license will be ready for collection within a few days.
It is important to know the requirements for the German license as a lot of expats will need to have one to legally drive in the country. Taking public transportation can be difficult and inconvenient for those living in rural areas, particularly in the winter months, so having a vehicle is often necessary.
How do I get an German driver's license?
If you hold a driver's license from another country in the European Union (EU) or from a country that is recognized by Germany as having reciprocity in full or partial form the possibility of converting your licence to a German one without having to take any tests. This process can be completed by making an appointment with your local driver's licensing authority known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring your original license as well as a proof of identification and a passport photograph. In the majority of cases your German licence will be ready to pick up in about four weeks.
If your license was issued in the UK, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland or Andorra, you can use it for up to six months prior obtaining a German license. To get this license you must first register your address and pass an German test that can be taken at a local language center or a private language school.
Obtaining the German driving license can take some time however, it is a necessary step to being able to drive safely on the road. It can also help you rent a car simpler, as certain rental companies might require an German license. It is crucial to keep in mind that driving in Germany is a serious business and should be treated as such.
It is recommended to enroll in a driving school and do some practice behind the wheel, as it will make you feel more at ease during your test. You can locate driving schools on Farschule-123.com which lets you sort by location and the type of vehicle. Many driving schools also offer theory classes in different languages.
Renewing your German driving license is a simple process. Simply make an appointment with your local driving licensing authority at least four weeks prior to the date the expiration date of your license. You'll need to bring your driver's license, a passport photo taken recently and pay a tiny amount of 24 euros. Then your new driving license will be available for you to pick up in four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
While it is possible to get an driver's license in Germany without having to pass the theoretical or practical test due to a reciprocity agreement the majority of expats should consider starting from scratch. This means taking a driving course and spending a significant amount of money.
Driving schools are available across the country and offer a range of courses, ranging from a basic car course to a truck, bus or passenger transport licence. They can also to offer you a theory course in your language. Some schools charge less than others. The best way to find a suitable driving school is to ask around and check online reviews.
The process of changing an American driving license to a German one could take anywhere between two and six months, based on the availability of the driving school and if you have an agreement for reciprocity. If you do not have a reciprocity arrangement then you'll need an interpreter to translate your license into German. This can be done either by a sworn translation or an automobile association. In addition, you can submit the KBA registry extract from your country of birth as proof of residency.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you will need to sit for a test. During the exam the driving instructor sits in the seat of the passenger as you drive the vehicle and respond to questions. If you pass, you'll be able to get your driving license within a few weeks.
If you fail the test in the exam, you'll need to repeat the whole process with a different instructor, and pay the fee. Additionally, führerschein ohne prüfung legal will be required to prove that you have passed a medical exam and, if required you will need to show a proof of 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). In this instance you will require a translated drivers' licence and medical certificates. You will also have to provide a translation that is certified and a photocopy of your passport.
Can I exchange my driving license from another country for a German license?
If you're moving to one of the states or countries which has a reciprocity arrangement with Germany, it is relatively simple to exchange your license to one from Germany. 27 states, including New York and California, have this agreement, meaning that if you present your driving license from these states, you won't be required to take the written or road test in Germany which will permit you to get a full German driver's license. You'll need your current driver's license, proof of identity (usually an original passport or national ID card) and a picture taken recently. The requirements for each state (Lander) differ, so it is best to confirm the requirements of your local authority for your driving license (Fuhrerscheinstelle), before booking an appointment.
You are only required to change your license within the first six month of your residency. If you fail to do this, it could be considered a violation of your residency permit and authorities could be able to 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 and this is an additional reason to get this process started and work towards obtaining your German license.
Anyone who moves to Germany from outside the EU/EEA region can keep their driver's license for a period of up to 12 months after they register their address. They must, however, be able to have it translated by a certified translation, a recognized internationally automotive organization or a certified interpreter. 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)". You can make this appointment via the internet, by telephone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will need your current license, a German translation of your license, your driving history from the country of origin, and evidence of identity. You will also need to pay a fee which is around EUR35. This can be paid in cash or via bank transfer. You will receive a confirmation mail after you have submitted all the required documents.