Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If your driver's license was issued in Australia, Canada, USA, South Africa or New Zealand and New Zealand, then you are granted full reciprocity with Germany and are able to drive here without any test.
The process for exchanging licenses is the same in all federal states (Lander). You will need to provide an explanation in writing of the reason for the exchange of your passport and license. German is also highly recommended.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein gives the right to drive in Germany. It is a highly-regarded document that represents not only the ability to drive, but also independence, freedom and responsibility. Obtaining a Fuhrerschein can be an arduous process but it is a must for anyone wanting to live and work in Germany.
The rules and requirements for a Fuhrerschein differ depending on the type and individual. Generally speaking applicants must be above the age of 18 and have a valid driver's license from their country of origin or another that has reciprocity with Germany. Reciprocity generally means that you do not need to pass a written or practical driving test when you change your license.
It is also important to remember that a Fuhrerschein cannot be used by people who have committed serious traffic violations or committed criminal offenses. In these instances your driving license could 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 keep their safety and the safety of the other road users in mind, there are also many rules and regulations for Fuhrerschein holders. This includes a mandatory minimum insurance coverage, a requirement to wear an appropriate seat belt at all time, and the ban of using electronic devices while driving. It is also essential for Fuhrerschein holders to maintain a good standard of driving and never drink and drive.
If you're a resident of an EU or EEA country and are moving to Germany it is crucial to know that your driving license from your home country will be valid in Germany for up to six months. After six months, you will have to get a German driving license to continue driving. You could be penalized and face other penalties if not.
It is best to apply for your Fuhrerschein as soon as possible in order to avoid any problems. You can do this by visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city where you are registered as resident. You will need to provide proof of your identity, a photocopy of your current license as well as other documents to complete the procedure.
How do I apply for an Fuhrerschein?
The process of obtaining Fuhrerscheins is different in each state (Land) since laws are set on the national level, however individual states tend to interpret them differently. You should always check with your local driving licensing authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle which is usually located within your local citizens' office) to learn more about how things work.
You will need to check whether your original licence is valid and that it was issued in a country which is part of the EU/EEA or a country with a reciprocal arrangement with Germany. You must also have resided in the same country that issued your licence for a minimum of 185 consecutive days.
Your documents will be scrutinized by your Fuhrerscheinstelle to determine whether you qualify. Then, you will be asked to take a Sehtest. This is a straightforward test of your vision that will confirm your eyesight meets minimum standards for safe driver. You can use corrective glasses to pass the test if necessary.
After passing the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a Bescheinigung that your application was accepted. This document is crucial since you'll require it to pick up your new German license. You will receive your Abgabensbescheid within a couple of weeks. The document is an acknowledgement of your license fee of approximately EUR35. Once you have paid the fee, you can pick-up your new German license.
The process of obtaining a Fuhrerschein isn't a simple process, and it is likely to take some time to complete. We can make the process as easy as possible for you by providing a step-by-step guide and helping you gather the necessary documentation. Additionally, we can assist with the German driving tests if required. Contact us for more information on our services. We are looking forward to hearing from you.
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you are planning to drive in Germany you'll need to change your international driver's licence to the German Fuhrerschein. It's a bit more complicated than just swapping your international driver's license to a German one, as you'll need to pass the theory test and the driving test here (or at least attempt). It is still possible.
The process to upgrade your Fuhrerschein to a fully-fledged driving licence starts with enrolling in a "Fahrschule" or driving school. They will guide you through your theory and practical classes and assist you with the documentation. You'll also need to secure your vehicle and take additional driving lessons to practice.
Once you have completed all these steps, you will be sent a letter to confirm that your application was approved. This document is called Bescheinigung, and you must keep this until your new license arrives in the post.
You can complete the final step of the process by visiting your local driving license office once you have received your Bescheinigung. You will need to present your Fuhrerschein, a photograph and a form of identification together with any other documents that are relevant.
You will receive your new driving permit in the mail approximately four weeks after you have completed the application. Once you receive your new driving licence you are legally able to drive in Germany.
If you don't want wait for your license to be delivered in the mail You may pay a bit more to have it produced at the Burgeramt. This will help you save time but it's not cheap and the quality of your licence will differ.
You can drive in Germany with your international license until January 2022. However, you'll have problems if you are arrested by the police. Additionally, you'll probably need to pay a lot more in car insurance. If you're planning to stay in Germany for longer than six months, it is recommended to obtain your German driving license as soon as you can. This thorough guide will help you understand how to get your German driving license.
How do I exchange my EU / EEA license in exchange for a German Fuhrerschein?
If your driving licence was issued by a nation in the EU or the EEA which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, you can usually continue to use it for up to six months after you move to Germany. If you plan to stay longer, or if your licence has expired, you'll have to exchange it for the German licence. This is both legally required and also the only method to renew your driving license after the date of expiration. If you have documents attesting your eyesight or health or eyesight, an exception can be made. For more information, contact the local office for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle).
Driving licenses issued by countries that have reciprocal agreements, like Australia and Canada, or the USA can be transferred to Germany without the need for a theory test or practical test. It is more difficult for drivers who do not have an agreement of reciprocity with Germany. However, even in this case it is possible to pass all the necessary steps without the need to take an entire driving test and training procedure.
To convert your foreign driving licence to a Fuhrerschein to be eligible, you need to complete an application and submit all the required documents to the local driving license office (also known as Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact procedure to exchange your license can differ based on the federal state (Land). It is therefore recommended to contact or visit the web site of your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to find out more about the requirements specific to for your particular area.
You'll be required to show proof of your identity as well as an official driver's license as well as a certificate attesting your good health and vision. You will also have to pay any applicable fees. It is recommended to apply as soon as you can and at least before your foreign driving license expires, to ensure that you get your Fuhrerschein on time. It is recommended to also keep your old licence until you get your new license because it could be useful to identify yourself.