How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
If you're planning to drive in Germany, you'll need to obtain a license. However this process can be costly and lengthy. Especially for American citizens, this could be a significant obstacle to getting around on the Autobahn.
There are ways around this. The first step is to get in touch with a Fahrschule that works with foreign students.
Requirements
If you move to Germany, it is important to know that you must exchange your driving license from abroad to a German Fuhrerschein (or "driver's license"). The rules differ based on the fact that you are a resident of an EU/EEA member state or a country that has an agreement of reciprocity. If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you may be required to pass both a theoretical and a practical test.
To get your Fuhrerschein, you must visit the local Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring an original passport, an identity card or driving licence from your country of origin along with a recent passport photograph. You'll be required to pay a fee which varies from one authority to another. In certain instances, you could be required to provide an English translation of your driving licence as well as other documents. However, this is not always the case. If you are in doubt about the requirements, you can contact the Strassenverkehrsamt or the Fuhrerscheinstelle directly to find out more.
The next step is to take the theory test. The test will be conducted by a driving school that is approved. The test is written and takes about 30 minutes. It will cover areas like traffic laws, road signs and the rules of the road. After passing the theory test and pass the theory test, you are qualified to take the actual test. The practical test consists of a variety of exercises including driving on city streets and motorways.
After passing the practical test and passing the practical test, you'll be eligible to legally drive on roads in Germany. You will still have to purchase compulsory car insurance and your car must pass an annual safety check.
You will also need to register your vehicle and purchase German license plates. If you plan to move to Germany for more than one year, your driving license from your home country will remain valid until the end of your first six months of residence. If you want to continue renting cars or purchasing your own, you need to get a German driving license within that time. You can find more information on this subject on the government website. Alternatively, you can use carpooling websites to make long journeys.
The process
If you're not a European Union citizen, you may need to buy an German driver's license. It's not as difficult as it sounds. The process can vary somewhat based on your home country and the agreement between Germany and it, but most times you can exchange your foreign licence for a German one without having to take any additional tests.
The first step in this process is to book an appointment with your local Fuhrerscheinstelle or driving licence office. You'll need to bring your existing license, a current passport photo, and identification proof. Your Fuhrerscheinstelle will then review your paperwork and determine whether or not you're eligible to transfer your licence. This process usually takes between two and four weeks.
After you have submitted the paperwork, you will have to take a theory and a practical test. The Fuhrerscheinstelle can then print out your new licence in the event that you have passed both tests. When it's ready for pick-up you'll be notified. Once you have your license, you must to buy mandatory car insurance, which you can do through a number of German companies like DA Direkt.
Certain countries, such as the USA, have reciprocal agreements with Germany, and do not require any additional documents or tests. Certain countries, like Australia have reciprocal agreements with Germany and do not require additional tests or documents.
As with most bureaucratic procedures in Germany the way the procedure is conducted can differ from federal state (Lander) to federal state. You should consult the Fuhrerscheinstelle in your area to determine what procedures are in place in the area you reside in. Failure to do so can cost your time and money. Another option is to purchase fake German driver's license, but this will come with its own set of problems. Besides, it's illegal. If you're arrested by the police, they'll be able to tell it's not real. It's not worth the risk. Stick to the official process unless you're in a hurry. It's better for everyone in long term.
Fees
A driving license in Germany is expensive. You'll need to pay for not just the initial application fee, but additionally for Fahrschule tuition and any additional driving lessons you may require. Additionally, you'll have to buy mandatory insurance for your vehicle. The cost of this will differ based on the kind of vehicle you plan to drive, however most are fairly inexpensive. You should also remember that you'll need to take both the theoretical and practical test, so be prepared for these costs as well.
If you're a resident of a nation outside the EU It may be possible to exchange your old license in exchange for an German one. This process is expensive and time-consuming and you'll have to prove your legal residency in the country. You'll also have to pass an eye and medical test. In some cases you may need to prove your previous license was valid at the time it expired in your home country.
Another option is to enroll in a local Fahrschule for classes that will help you prepare for the driving test. These classes will provide you with an amount of driving lessons to allow you pass both the road and written test. In addition, you will be required to complete the first-aid training.
After having passed both the driving and writing tests, you'll receive an interim license. This is valid for a period of three months or until you receive a EU driver's license (whichever comes first). You must keep this license with you at all times while you drive in Germany.
If similar web page fail your driving test, you can repeat it within a few weeks. You should allow yourself plenty of time to get ready for the practical test, since it can be quite difficult. It is a good idea to go over the German road rules and to practice with an instructor prior to taking the test. There are a variety of sources to assist you in your preparation, including official apps and websites and driving schools.
Documents needed
If you're an expat from Germany it is important to understand the costs and procedures involved in obtaining a driving licence. You'll need to register your vehicle, purchase insurance and pass the driving test. It is essential to know the different types driving licenses available in Germany. You might consider taking a driving test at an Fahrschule before taking your driving test. The courses are expensive but are vital for a smooth and safe transition to the German roads.
You can buy German driving licenses in various ways, depending on whether or not you are an EU national. Non-EU citizens are able to use their drivers' licenses from abroad for up to six months after moving into the country, but it is necessary to exchange or obtain the German driving license to continue to drive. In addition the driver's license has to be valid in all European Union member states.
The first step in obtaining a driving license is to visit the local Driving License Office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). You'll need your foreign driving licence, a passport photograph, and an eye-sight test. It's a good idea to schedule an appointment four weeks before your existing license expires. This allows you to avoid having to retake the driver's exam or pay a renewal fee.
Once you have all the required documents, you can bring them in to the Fuhrerscheinstelle. The Fuhrerscheinstelle will check the information, and then send it to government. Typically, it takes between two and six weeks for the transfer to be approved by the government. The Fuhrerscheinstelle will issue you a certificate allowing you to drive while you wait.
If your driver's license from a foreign country is stolen or lost, you must give the authorities a written statement describing the situation and stating you will return it to them when it is discovered. It is also necessary to inform the police.
An international driving permit (IDP) is a translation of your national license that can be used for up to one year in the countries that recognize it. You can obtain an IDP from Fahrschules Fahrschule or an automobile club in Germany for around 55 to 85 euros.