Buying a German Driving License
Purchasing a German driving license requires lots of time and money. It also takes a lot nerves. Major mistakes will cost you your license (and the world!) while minor mistakes can cut your time on the road to zero.
The good news is that citizens of certain countries enjoy reciprocity with Germany. They are able to easily exchange their licenses. The procedure differs from country to country.
1. Get an ID card
You must first get a passport before you consider purchasing a German driving license. It is possible to do this in various ways, according to your personal situation and goals. The most important steps are to apply for an immigration visa (if necessary), gather the necessary documents and pass any citizenship tests and language tests. You may also want to consult an immigration expert who can help you navigate the process.
The process for getting the passport can be lengthy, but it is the first step needed to be legally working and living in Germany. The cost of a passport is around EUR 90, and you'll need to submit a variety of official documents to be processed. You will require, for instance an ID that is valid (e.g. a driver's licence or passport) as well as proof of your identity, proof of insurance, and a birth or marriage certificate. In certain situations you may be required to undergo a medical exam and submit a biometric passport picture.
In certain situations, getting the right passport is a lengthy and complex process, particularly if you have a criminal record or an extensive history of violent crimes. In these instances it's best to speak with an experienced immigration lawyer who can offer assistance and guidance throughout the process.
If you're a citizen of the EU / EEA or a country that has a reciprocal driver's license agreement with Germany You may be eligible to exchange your license from another country to a German one relatively easily without having to take a theory or practical driving test. But, this may differ from country to country, and even from office to office within the same city.
You'll need an appointment to determine if your international license can be exchanged for an German license at the Strassenverkehrsamt in your city. The requirements for this appointment may vary from country to country so make sure you review this list prior to you go. You may also require to have your driving licence from another country translated, which can increase the time needed for this step.
2. Get a German Visa
It is essential to be aware that if you're not an German (or EU) citizen and you have a driving licence from your country of origin it is only valid for it for six months following becoming a resident of Germany. The process of exchanging a foreign driver's licence will vary based on the state and local authorities in Germany However, typically, you will have to pass both the theoretical and practical driving tests. In addition, you may require having your license translated by the car club ADAC provides this service for between 55 and 85 euros.
You'll require a visa in order to stay in Germany and also to apply for your driving license, so ensure that you have one prior to when you arrive. You can get tourist visas at a German consulate or the embassy, or obtain a business visa to work in Germany.
Once you've obtained your visa, you are able to apply for a driving permit at the local Verkehrssamt. You'll be required to bring the original driving licence along with proof of insurance and an eye test certificate. In the majority of cases, you will also need a translation of your driving license into German - we recommend using Lingoking for fast and inexpensive online translations of documents.
It is not permissible to buy a driving license from a different country while on holiday. This is referred to as "licensing tourist" and could have serious implications for our roads. Most cities require that you've lived in the country from which the license was issued for at least 185 days.
There are a few non-traditional methods to avoid this for instance, buying a fake license however, it's not worth the risk. Additionally, you'll be slapped with a hefty fine if you are stopped by police. If you do choose to do this we recommend that you go through a Fahrschule that specializes in teaching foreigners - they can assist you in navigating the bureaucracy and find a first-aid course, if required.
3. You can apply for a German Residence Permit
A German residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) is legally binding document that permits you to reside in Germany. To obtain one, you must meet certain criteria, such as having lived in Germany for a minimum of three years, and having a basic knowledge of the German language (level C 1 as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). You must also prove that you can cover your living costs without public assistance. Contributing to the statutory insurance fund is required, as well as being able to provide for yourself and your loved ones financially.
If you have a driving license issued by an EU or EEA country, you may be eligible to exchange it for one of a German licence. It depends on the specifics of your particular situation and the requirements of your city or state. Your local Strassenverkehrsamt will be able to advise you on this. If you're thinking of changing your license you'll require a certification of your eyesight and health as well.
Like most bureaucratic issues licensing rules differ from one state to the next. Therefore, it's best to contact your local Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle if you have any questions, particularly because the process can be lengthy.
In general, foreign drivers who wish to get an German license must first pass both the road test as well as the written test. Drivers who have a licence issued by their home countries and do not have any points on their records are usually in a position to bypass these tests, however it is best to check with your Strassenverkehrsamt to find out the exact requirements for your area.
To avoid having to take both the theory and road test, it is recommended to enroll in a Fahrschule which has experience working with expats. For a nominal fee they will assist you with the German licensing system and can provide you with a teacher who will coach you through the process. These companies can help you with the German licensing system and provide you with a trainer who will coach you through the course. You will find a list of accredited Fahrschulen in your area on the website of the Bundesministerium for Bildung und Arbeit.
4. Get a German Driver's License
The process of obtaining an German driver's license is a crucial step for expats moving to Germany. It will let you navigate the roads more easily and allow you to drive in any kind of vehicle. You must be at the age of eighteen to apply, pass both the theoretical and practical examination, take a first aid course, and pass an eye test. The exact requirements vary depending on what type of license you are looking to obtain However, you should be able to pay approximately 1500 euros for registration fees, tuition, and the exam.
Foreign drivers aren't required to retake the test to get an German licence. As long as your driving licence was issued in an EU/EEA country or in a state with an exclusive reciprocal agreement with Germany, you can simply exchange it for an German Fuhrerschein (driver's license) without needing to retake any of the tests. Drivers who were driving within the EU/EEA region or in a state with an exclusive reciprocal agreement with Germany can exchange their driving license for a German Fuhrerschein (driver's license) without having to take any tests.
If you're unable to transfer your license, or if you're trying to get a motorcycle driving licence (C1) or C1), it might be quicker and easier to begin from scratch and complete the German driving test(s). However, in these cases you'll have to pass the theory and the practice test. The first step is to go to an official Fahrschule with had experience working with foreign students. They can help you navigate the bureaucracy involved in getting your license. They can also help you find the required first-aid course and an eye doctor to conduct the eye test.
go now might charge a modest cost, but it's worth the convenience of having someone else manage the paperwork. It's worth the time and effort required to obtain your license. Once you've got your license you'll be able to explore Germany at your leisure!