Buying a German Driving License
To get a German driving license takes lots of time and money. It also requires a lot of nerves. Making a mistake can result in a license suspension and a bomb and minor mistakes could reduce your years on the road.
The good news is that citizens of certain countries have reciprocity with Germany and can easily exchange their licenses. The process is different for each country.
1. Get a Passport
Before you can even think about purchasing a German driver's license, you'll need to obtain your passport. You can do this in different ways according to your personal situation and goals. The first step is to apply for a visa, obtaining the necessary documents, and passing any necessary citizenship or language tests. It is recommended to seek the assistance from an immigration specialist who can guide you through this process.
It can be long however it's an essential first step to legally living and working in Germany. A passport is priced at around $90 and you will need to provide a number of official documents in order to process your application. You'll require, for example an ID with a valid photo (e.g. a driver's licence or passport) and evidence of your identity and proof of insurance and a marriage or birth certificate. In some cases you may be required to provide an biometric photograph and pass a medical examination.
In expressdeutschekartes , obtaining a passport is a lengthy and difficult process, especially in the event that you have a criminal background or a history of violent crime. In these instances it is a great idea to consult with a qualified immigration lawyer who will offer guidance and support through the entire process.
If you're a resident of the EU or EEA or a country that has a special reciprocal driving licensing agreement with Germany, you may be able to exchange your license from another country for a German one relatively easily without having to take a theory or practical driving exam. However, this will vary from country to country and even between offices within a city.
You'll need an appointment to determine if your international license is able to be exchanged for an German license at the Strassenverkehrsamt in your city. The conditions for this appointment could differ from country to country, so be sure to go through this list prior to when you go. You may also need to have your foreign driving license translated, which can delay the process.
2. German Visa
It is important to know that if you're not a German (or EU) citizen and have an driving license from your country of origin you are only able to use it for a period of six months after becoming a resident of Germany. The process of changing a foreign driver's license could differ based on the state and local authorities in Germany however, generally you'll need to pass both the theoretical and practical driving tests. In addition, you may need to have your licence translated - the automobile club ADAC offers this service for between 55 and 85 euros.
If you plan to stay in Germany or apply for a driving permit you'll require a German visa. Be sure to have one before you arrive. You can get a tourist visa at a German consulate or embassy, or business visas to work in Germany.
Once you've got your visa, you can apply for a driving permit at the local Verkehrssamt. You'll have to bring your original driver's license with you, together with evidence of insurance and an eye test certificate. In the majority of instances, you'll need a translation of your driving licence into German - we recommend using Lingoking for fast and inexpensive online translations of documents.
It is not permitted to simply buy driving licenses from a different country on vacation, since this is considered a form of "licensing tourism" and can lead to grave consequences on our roads. The majority of cities require that you have lived in the country from which your licence was issued for at least 185 days.
It is not worth the risk to purchase a fake licence. Additionally, you'll be slapped with a hefty fine if you are stopped by police. If you do decide to do this, we recommend going to a Fahrschule that is specialized in teaching foreigners - they can help you navigate through the bureaucracy and find a first-aid course, if required.
3. Apply for a German Residence Permit
A German residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) is a legal document that authorizes you to live in Germany. You must meet certain requirements to be eligible for one, such as having resided in Germany for at least three years and possessing a basic knowledge of the language (level 1 in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). It also requires proof that you're capable of sustaining your expenses without assistance from the government, contributing to the statutory health insurance fund and being able to take care of yourself and your family financially.
If you hold a driving licence issued by an EU or EEA country, you might be eligible to exchange it for one of a German license. It is contingent on the circumstances of your particular situation and the requirements of your city or state. Your local Strassenverkehrsamt will be able to provide you with advice on this. If you are planning on changing your license for a new one, you'll require a certificate proving your good health and eyesight as well.
Like most bureaucratic issues licensing rules differ from one state to the next. Therefore, it's best to check with your local Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle If you have any concerns, particularly because the process can take a long time.
Foreign drivers who wish to get a German license must pass the written and practical test. If you have a driver's license issued by their home countries and have no points on their records are usually allowed to skip these tests, but you should always consult your Strassenverkehrsamt to find out the exact requirements in your area.
To avoid having to pass both the road and theory test, it is advisable to go through a Fahrschule that has worked with expats. These firms will help you navigate the German licensing system for a fee and provide a teacher who will guide you throughout the course. They can also advise you on the best method to get your license and can also recommend an English-speaking translator in the event of need. You can find a list of accredited Fahrschulen in your area on the website of the Bundesministerium fur Bildung und Arbeit.
4. Get a German Driver's License
For expats moving into Germany, obtaining the German driving license is a must. The license will help you navigate the roads with ease and allow you to drive in any kind of vehicle. You must be at least 18 years old to apply. You will also need to pass the theoretical and practical tests, take a first-aid course, and pass the eye test. The exact requirements will differ depending on the type of license you wish to acquire However, you can expect to pay approximately 1500 euros, which includes registration fees, lesson costs, and the test.
Foreign drivers don't have to take the test again to get a German licence. If your driving license was issued in a country that is part of the EU/EEA or in a state that has an exclusive reciprocal agreement with Germany and Germany, you can exchange it for the German Fuhrerschein (driver's license) without having to retake any of the tests. Some exceptions are granted to drivers who have been driving in the EU/EEA region for two years or more and for motorcyclists whose licence will need to be replaced.
If you aren't eligible to transfer or you require a motorcycle license (C1) it is easier and quicker to start over and take the German driving tests. However, in these cases you will need to pass the theory test and practice lessons. The first step is to visit an official Fahrschule that has had experience working with foreign students. They can help you navigate the bureaucracy involved in getting your license. They can also help you find a first-aid course (required) and locate an eye doctor for the eye test.
A reputable Fahrschule might charge a modest cost, but it's worth the convenience of having someone else manage the paperwork. The process of getting your license is a crucial step to getting settled in, so it's worthwhile to put the time and effort into getting it done. Once you have your license you can travel around Germany at your leisure.