Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If you have an driver's license from Australia, Canada, USA or New Zealand, you can drive in Germany without having to pass any tests.
The process for exchanging licenses is the same in all states that are federal (Lander). You'll need a letter explaining why you are exchanging your license and passport photographs. German proficiency is highly recommended, as well.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein is a type of driving license that grants individuals the legal authority to drive vehicles in Germany. It is a highly-regarded document that not only demonstrates the ability to drive but also independence, freedom and responsibility. The process of obtaining a Fuhrerschein is difficult, but it is essential for anyone who wants to live and work in Germany.
The rules and requirements for the Fuhrerschein differ based on the type of applicant and the individual. In general applicants must be over the age of eighteen and possess an official driver's license issued by their home country or a different nation that has reciprocity with Germany. Reciprocity generally means that you don't need to pass an exam for driving proficiency or a written test when you exchange your license.
A Fuhrerschein is not valid for those who have committed serious traffic or criminal violations. In these instances, your driving license will be taken away and you won't be able to obtain it back until a certain period of time has been completed (called the Sperrfrist).
To ensure that all drivers have their safety as well as the safety of the other road users in mind, there are many rules and regulations for Fuhrerschein holders. There are also rules for holders of Fuhrerschein that include a minimum level of insurance, the requirement to always wear a seatbelt, as well as the prohibition of using electronic devices when driving. It is also important for Fuhrerschein holders, to maintain a good standard of driving and never drink and drive.
If you're a resident of an EU country or EEA and are moving to Germany it is crucial to be aware that your driving license from your home country can be used in Germany for up to 6 months. However, after that point you will have to obtain an German license to continue driving. Otherwise, you will be penalized with penalties, fines and other sanctions.
It is best to apply for your Fuhrerschein as soon as possible in order to avoid any issues. You can apply for a Fuhrerschein visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt in the city where you reside in. To complete the process, you'll be required to submit a photocopy of your current license and evidence of identity.
How do I apply to receive a Fuhrerschein?
The process for getting a Fuhrerschein is different in each state. While laws are formulated at an international level, different states interpret them in a different way. Always check with your local driving licensing authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle - usually housed within your local citizens' office) to learn more about how things work.
Before you apply, you'll have to confirm that the original licence you obtained is valid and that it was issued by a nation which is part of the EU or EEA or a country with an exclusive reciprocal agreement with Germany. You will also need to reside in the country that issued your license for at least 185 days.
The documents you submit will be reviewed by your Fuhrerscheinstelle in order to determine if you are eligible. You will then be asked to take the Sehtest. This is a quick test of your vision that will confirm your eyesight meets minimum standards for a safe driver. If you are required, you can use corrective lenses to pass the test.
If you pass the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle an acknowledgement that your application was accepted. Keep this document, because you will need to show it when picking up your new German license. Within 2-3 weeks you will receive an Abgabensbescheid, which contains a confirmation and invoice for the fee you pay for your licence, which is around EUR35. Once this is paid and received, you will be able to pick up your new German license.
It is not an easy task to get a Fuhrerschein and you'll need time. However, we can help to make it as easy as possible by giving you a an easy-to-follow guide and helping you in obtaining the necessary documentation. We can also assist with the German driving test if necessary. For more information about our services we invite you to contact us. We would love to hear 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 a Fuhrerschein. It's a bit more complicated than simply swapping your current international driver's license for one German one, because you'll have to take the driving test and theory here (or at least attempt). It is, however, feasible.
Enrolling at a driving school or "Fahrschule" is the first step in changing your Fuhrerschein to a full driving license. They will assist you with the paperwork and guide you through the theoretical and practical driving lessons. You'll also have to secure your vehicle and attend additional driving lessons to practice.
After you have completed all these steps, you'll be sent a letter to confirm that your application was approved. This document is referred to as Bescheinigung, and you must keep it until your new license is delivered to you.
Once you have your Bescheinigung, you can go to your local driving license office to finish the final stage of the procedure. You'll need to bring your Fuhrerschein, a photograph and a form of identification together with any other relevant documents.
After you've submitted your application after submitting your application, it'll take about four weeks to get your new driving licence in the mail. After echten deutschen führerschein kaufen have received your new driving licence you are legally able to drive in Germany.
You can pay a fee to have your license issued at the Burgeramt in case you don't want to wait. It will cut down on time however the quality of the license will be different.
You can technically get away with driving on your international license in Germany until January 2022. After that, you'll face issues if you're pulled over by a police officer. Additionally, you'll have to pay more for car insurance. If you're planning to remain in Germany for longer than six months, you should obtain your German driving license as soon as you can. And the best way to get it is by following this comprehensive step-by-step instruction.
How do I convert my EU/EEA driving licence to a German Fuhrerschein?
If you have a driving license from a country within the EU or EEA (which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway), you can keep it for up to six months after your move to Germany. If you intend to stay for longer or your license is expired, you'll need to exchange it for a German license. This is legally required and the only way to renew your license beyond the expiry date of your original license. Some exceptions can be made in the event that you have proof attesting to your good health and eyesight. Contact your local driving licence office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) to learn more.
Driving licenses from countries that have reciprocal agreements with Germany, such as Australia, Canada, Japan and the USA are transferable without the requirement of the passing of a practical or theory test. The process is more difficult for drivers who come from countries that do not have this arrangement, but even in these situations, it is possible to complete the necessary steps without going through the entire driving instruction and testing.
The first step in changing your foreign driver's licence to a Fuhrerschein is to fill out an application form and the required documents to your local driving licence office which is also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. The procedure for exchanging a licence can differ by federal state. It is therefore recommended to call ahead or go to the website of your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to find out more about the specific requirements for your particular area.
You will be required to provide evidence of your identity, an official driver's license along with a certificate attesting your good health and vision. You'll also need to pay the relevant fees. It is best to apply as soon as you can and at least before your foreign driving licence expires to ensure that you get your Fuhrerschein on time. It is recommended to keep your old licence until you get your new license since it could be useful to identify yourself.