How to Buy a German Driving License
If you want to leave public transportation to take the Autobahn yourself first, you must have an active driving license. If your country of residence is listed in Germany's "Annex 11" You can transfer your driving license with minimal effort.
However, this isn't the case for all states.
Requirements
There are several requirements that you need to meet in order to buy a German driving license. First, you must pass a test written. The test taker will ask questions about road signs and traffic laws. If you pass the test, you will receive your driving license. If you don't get it you may retake the test as many times as you want. You'll have to wait for two weeks before you can take the next test.
You also need to have a valid residence permit and have completed the required number of driving lessons (Pflichtstudent). Additionally, you need to register your vehicle and pay the tax on cars. The requirements for these documents vary between states of the federal government (Lander). For more information, you should contact your local Fuhrerscheinstelle or driving license office.
There are various requirements for those who aren't from the EU. People from countries that have an exclusive reciprocal agreement with Germany can easily exchange their foreign driving license for the German driving license. Citizens of other countries are required to take a theory or practical test in order to obtain their driving license.
You will also need to possess a passport that is valid. You might be asked to produce a copy of your birth certificate, marriage certificate and proof of address. Some Fuhrerscheinstelle offices require you to surrender your driver's license from the previous one and this can complicate the process. If this is the case, you may use a service like Lingoking to obtain a standardized translation of your driving licence which will be accepted by all Fuhrerscheinstelle.
Purchasing a driving license in Germany is a daunting procedure however it doesn't have to be. There are a lot of resources available to guide you with the process, from driving schools to translation services. It is essential to understand the requirements for each class, and then take the test that is appropriate for the vehicle you are driving. Once you have passed your test, you are able to drive legally and safely in Germany. Just make sure you have a sharp vision and be prepared for long drives.
Fees
If you already have a valid driving license from an EU or US state with reciprocity, you can exchange that for an German license without having to take the theory test or the test in practice. You must also complete the first aid course and undergo an eye test. Based on the circumstances, you may be required to pay additional fees. This is typically the case if your German is minimal, or if you need to take additional lessons at the Fahrschule. You will also need to purchase an insurance policy as well as first aid kits which can be expensive.
The cost of your German driving licence is largely dependent on where you're from and the kind of vehicle you are driving. For instance, it's difficult to get a motorcycle licence in Germany because of the limited amount of motorcycles on the road. Furthermore, obtaining the process of getting a motorcycle licence takes a lot of practice and an additional practical and theoretical test.
The purchase of the German driver's licence is a long, lengthy process, and is costly. If you're not a European citizen the process can take up to about six months to complete. After arriving in Germany you'll need to change your foreign driving license at a local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before it expires. You'll then need to pass the written and theoretical exams in addition to the practical and oral tests.
It is a good idea to locate a Fahrschule which has worked with expats and is familiar with the German driving license laws. They will assist you with the paperwork for a fee and help you pass your driving test. They will also provide you with the required documents, including a copy of your passport. They will also arrange for your first-aid course and provide you with the required equipment, such as gloves and a helmet for the practical test.
The cost of an German driving license is about 200 euros, which makes it more affordable for those with existing licenses from their home countries. The fee is payable at the Fuhrerscheinstelle which is usually in the same building as your municipal office. You will be informed when your new German driving license is ready to pick up.
Timeframe
There are several aspects to take into consideration when deciding the time it takes to get a driving license in Germany. First you must pass both your theory and practical tests. These tests are usually conducted once a week at local offices (Buergeramt). In addition, you need to pass an eye test and attend an entire day Erste Hilfe Kurse, which is required for all drivers. Then, you have to wait for the application to be processed. It could take between about 2-4 weeks.
The process of obtaining your German license is also contingent on whether you're an EU citizen or not. If you are an EU citizen the driver's license you have from your home country will generally remain valid in Germany until it expires. If, however, you have an authorization for motorbikes or large goods vehicles or if it's in another non-EU language you'll need to convert it into a German one.
In this case, it is likely that you will have to take a second driving course and pass additional practical tests. You will also have take a test written. It is recommended to complete the theory and practical course at the local driving school. Ask your local Strassenverkehrsamt or go online to find driving schools in the area.
The process of getting a German driving license can be a lengthy process for those from the United States. You will be required to surrender your U.S. driver's license in most German offices, so be sure that it's a certified version. The most efficient way to get a certified translation is to make use of an online service like Lingoking.
The process for getting an driving license in Germany will vary based on the state of your federal (Lander). For more specific information you need to contact your local Staatsanwaltschaft. In general the process shouldn't take more than six months. If you're not sure, it is a good idea to contact your Landesanwaltschaft prior to moving to Germany to find out what the requirements are. This will aid you in planning your move according to plan and prevent any issues or delays in the future.
Reciprocity
There isn't a definitive answer to this question as it varies based on the country your driver's license was issued from and the length of time you intend to stay in Germany. It is important to know that Germans do not like people driving with two different licenses. You can drive with your American driving license for six months, however, you have to exchange it to the German license. The state in which you obtained your license will decide if you need to take the driving test or an exam written. Certain states, such as Michigan have full reciprocity whereas others (like New York), do not.
Contact your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to set up an appointment to discuss the possibility of a license exchange. Then, you can begin the process and make sure you have all the required documents. It will also give you a better sense of what to expect. On average it will cost you around 200 euros to convert an US driver's license to the German license.
The lucky group of expats hails from the 27 US states that enjoy full reciprocity with Germany, as well as the Canadian provinces and territories. In these cases all you need to do is go to the Fuhrerscheinstelle and show your US driver's license along with some other documents. You will be approved to get an German license without having to take any tests.
It's more difficult for countries that don't have a reciprocity deal with Germany. For those coming from the thirteen states that don't have reciprocity, you'll need to pass the written and practical (driving) exams. This will take a few weeks and cost about EUR500 total.
deutschen führerschein kaufen find this a frustrating and expensive process. It is essential to be prepared if you're planning on living in Germany for a long time. If you're looking to explore the natural beauty of Europe or just go on a road trip to IKEA, having a car is an essential element.