Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If your driver's license was issued in Australia, Canada, USA, South Africa or New Zealand, then you have full reciprocity with Germany and can drive here without having to pass any tests.
The process of exchanging a license is the same in each federal state (Lander). You'll need a formal letter explaining why you are exchanging your license and passport photos. German proficiency is highly recommended as well.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein gives the right to drive in Germany. It is a highly sought-after document that represents not only the ability to drive, but also the freedom, independence, and responsibility that come with it. It can be an arduous process however it is vital for anyone wanting to live and work in Germany.
The rules and requirements for the Fuhrerschein vary based on the type and individual. Generally speaking, applicants must be over the age of eighteen and possess a valid driver's license from their country of origin or another that has reciprocity with Germany. If you decide to exchange your driving license, you don't have to pass either the written test or a test of the practical.
A Fuhrerschein is not valid for individuals who have committed serious traffic or criminal offenses. In these instances, your driving license will be revoked and you won't be able get it back until a specific time frame (called Sperrfrist) has passed.
To ensure that all drivers have their safety and the safety of other motorists in mind, there are also numerous stipulations for Fuhrerschein holders. This includes a mandatory minimum insurance coverage, the requirement to wear the seat belt at all times, and the restriction of using electronic devices while driving. It is also important for Fuhrerschein holders to maintain an acceptable standard of driving, and to never drink and drive.
If you are a resident of an EU country or EEA and are moving to Germany it is important to note that your driving licence from your home country may be used in Germany for up to six months. But, after that you will have to obtain an German license to continue driving. Otherwise, you will be subject to penalties, fines and other sanctions.
To avoid any issues, it is best to apply for a Fuhrerschein as quickly as you can. You can do this by going to the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city in which you are registered as resident. To complete the process, you will be required to submit a photocopy of your current license and evidence of identity.
How do I apply for a Fuhrerschein?
The process of obtaining a Fuhrerschein differs in each state. While laws are made at an international level, different states interpret them in a different way. Always check with the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle typically located in the local office of the citizens') to see what the procedure is.
You will need to check whether your original licence is valid and was issued in a nation that belongs to the EU/EEA or a country with a reciprocal arrangement with Germany. my website must also have lived in the same country that issued your licence for at least the equivalent of 185 consecutive days.
When you visit your Fuhrerscheinstelle they will verify that you are eligible to apply by looking over your documents. You will then be required to take the Sehtest. It is a simple test of your vision that will confirm your eyesight is in line with the minimum requirements for a safe driver. If you are required, you can opt for corrective lenses to pass the test.
After passing the Sehtest and passed the Sehtest, you will be issued a Bescheinigung by the Fuhrerscheinstelle that your application was accepted. This document is crucial since you'll require it to get your new German license. You will receive your Abgabensbescheid within 2-3 weeks. This document contains a confirmation of your license fee, which is approximately EUR35. Once you have paid the fee, you can collect your new German license.
Finding a Fuhrerschein isn't an easy task, and it will most likely take you some time to complete. We can make the process as easy as it can be for you by providing a step-bystep guide and help you gather the required documents. Additionally, we can help with the German driving tests if required. Contact us for more information on our services. We look forward hearing from you.
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you're planning to move to Germany and intend to drive in Germany in the future, you'll need to swap your license for one called a Fuhrerschein. It's a bit more complicated than changing your international license to one that is a German driver's license, since you'll need to take both the theory and driving tests here (or at the very least attempt). It is, however, feasible.
Enrolling at my website driving school or "Fahrschule" is the first step to changing your Fuhrerschein to an official driving license. They will help you with the paperwork and guide you through the theory and practical driving lessons. You will also need to get your vehicle insured and it's a great idea to attend a few additional driving lessons to practice.
After you have completed all these steps, you'll receive a letter that confirms that your application was approved. The document is referred to as Bescheinigung, and you must keep it until your new license is received in the mail.
You can complete the final step of the process by visiting your local driving license office once you have received your Bescheinigung. You'll also have to present your Fuhrerschein as well as any other relevant documents.
You will get your new driving license within four weeks after you've applied. Once it's there, you can begin to legally drive in Germany!
You can pay a fee to get your licence printed at the Burgeramt in case you don't want to wait. This will save you some time, but it's not cheap, and the quality of the license will be different.
You are able to drive in Germany with an international license until January 2022. However, you will have problems if you are pulled over by the police. You'll also need to pay more for car insurance. If my website on staying in Germany for longer than 6 months, it's recommended to get your German driving license as soon as you can. The best way to do that is to follow this comprehensive step-by-step guide.
How do I exchange my EU / EEA licence to a German Fuhrerschein?
If you hold a driver's license from a nation that is within the EU or EEA (which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway) you are able to continue to use it for up to six months following your move to Germany. If you plan on staying longer than this, or if your driving licence has expired, however, you will have to exchange it to one that is a German licence. This is an obligation under the law and the only method to renew your driving licence following the expiry date of its original. Some exceptions can be made in the event that you have proof that prove your good eyesight and health. Contact your local driving licensing office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) to learn more.
Driving licences from countries which have reciprocal agreements with Germany for example, Australia, Canada, Japan and the USA are transferable without the need for the passing of a practical or theory test. The process is more complex for drivers from countries that do not have this arrangement, but even in these situations, it is possible to pass the necessary steps without undergoing the entire driving instruction and testing.
To convert your driving licence from another country to a Fuhrerschein to be eligible, you need to submit an application along with all required documents to the local driving licensing office (also known as Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact procedure for exchanging your licence can vary by federal state (Land). To learn more about the requirements in your area, it is best to contact or visit your local Fuhrerscheinstelle.
You'll need to submit proof of identity, a photo and a valid driving licence and a certificate that confirms your good health and eyesight. You'll also need to pay the applicable fees. It is recommended to apply as early as you can and at least before your foreign driving license expires to ensure you get your Fuhrerschein on time. It is advised to keep your old driving licence until you get your new one. It can be used for identification to identify you.