Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If you hold an driver's license from Australia, Canada, USA or New Zealand, you can drive in Germany without having to pass any tests.
The process of exchanging a licence is largely identical in every federal state (Lander). You will need a letter explaining why you are exchanging your licence and passport photos. German proficiency is highly recommended, as well.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein allows you to drive in Germany. It is a highly-regarded document that demonstrates not only the capability to drive but also independence, freedom and accountability. It's not an easy process to obtain a Fuhrerschein but it's essential for anyone who wishes to live and work Germany.
The rules and requirements for a Fuhrerschein vary depending on the type of license and the individual. In general applicants must be over the age of 18 and have an official driver's license issued by their home country or another nation that has reciprocity with Germany. When you exchange your driving license, you don't need to pass a written test or a practical test.
It is also important to remember that a Fuhrerschein cannot be used by people who have committed serious traffic violations or criminal offences. In these cases, your driving license will be confiscated and you will not be able to get it back until a specific time has passed (called the Sperrfrist).
Fuhrerschein holders are also subject to a variety of conditions that guarantee their safety and the safety of other road users. There are also rules for holders of Fuhrerschein, such as the requirement for a minimum amount of insurance, the requirement to always wear a seatbelt, as well as the prohibition on using electronic devices while driving. The holders of a driver's license must also keep an excellent standard of driving and not drink while operating a vehicle.
If you're a resident of an EU country or EEA and are planning to move to Germany it is crucial to remember that your driving licence from your home country may be used in Germany for up to six months. But, after that, you will need to get an German license to continue driving. Otherwise, you will be penalized with penalties and fines.
To avoid these problems, it's best to apply for a Fuhrerschein as soon as you can. This can be done by going to the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city in which you are registered as resident. To complete the process, you'll need to provide a photocopy your current license and evidence of identity.
How do I apply for an Fuhrerschein?
The process for getting a Fuhrerschein varies in each state. While laws are set at the national level, individuals states interpret them in a different way. Always check with your local driving licensing authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle which is usually located within the local office of the citizens') to learn more about what the procedure is.
Before you apply, you'll be required to verify that your original licence is valid, and that it was issued by a country which is part of the EU / EEA or a country with an exclusive reciprocal agreement with Germany. You must also have resided in the same country that issued your licence for at least 185 consecutive days.
The documents you submit will be review ed by your Fuhrerscheinstelle to determine if you are eligible. You will then be asked to take an Sehtest. It is a quick test of your vision that will confirm your eyesight is in line with the minimum requirements for safe driver. If you are required, you can make use of corrective lenses to pass the test.
If you pass the Sehtest You will then be issued a Bescheinigung by the Fuhrerscheinstelle that your application has been approved. Keep this document, as you will need to show it when you get your new German license. You will receive your Abgabensbescheid within a couple of weeks. This document will contain the confirmation of the license fee of approximately EUR35. After this fee is paid you can collect your new German licence.
It is not an easy task to obtain a Fuhrerschein and you will need some time. However, we can help make it as smooth as possible by giving you a a step-by-step guide and assisting you with completing the required documentation. Additionally, we can assist with the German driving test if you need it. Contact us for more information about our services. We are looking forward to hearing from you!
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you're planning to move to Germany and are planning to drive here, you will eventually need to exchange your license in exchange for the Fuhrerschein. It's a little more complicated than just swapping your existing international driver's license for a German one, as you will need to take the theory and driving test here (or at least try). It's still possible.
Enrolling in a driving school or "Fahrschule" is the first step to making your Fuhrerschein a full driving licence. They will assist you with your paperwork and guide you through the theoretical and practical driving lessons. You'll also need to insure your vehicle and it's a good idea to take some extra driving lessons for practice.
After you have completed these steps, you will receive a letter confirming that your application was approved. This document is known as Bescheinigung, and you should keep it until your new license is received in the mail.
You can complete the last step of the process by visiting your local driving license office after you have received your Bescheinigung. You will also need to provide your Fuhrerschein and any other relevant documents.
After you've submitted your application and received your application, it takes about four weeks to get your new driving licence in the mail. Once you've received it, you can begin to legally drive in Germany!
If you don't wish to wait for your license to be delivered by mail You may pay a bit more to have it printed at the Burgeramt. It will speed up the process however the quality will be different.
You are able to drive in Germany with an international license until January 2022. However, you'll have problems if you are arrested by the police. Additionally, you'll have to pay more for car insurance. If you're planning on staying in Germany for more than six months, you should obtain your German driving licence as soon as you can. And the best way to do that is by following this comprehensive step-by-step guide.
How do I exchange my EU or EEA licence in exchange for a German Fuhrerschein?
If your driving licence was issued by a nation within the EU or the EEA, which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway You are able to use it for up to six months following your move to Germany. If you plan on staying longer than this, or when your driving license has expired, however, you will need to exchange it for one that is a German licence. This is a legal requirement and the only way to renew your driving licence after the date of expiration. Some exceptions can be made in the event that you have proof attesting to your health and eyesight. For more information, contact your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle).
Driving licenses issued by countries that have reciprocal agreements, like Australia and Canada or the USA could be transferred to Germany without the need for a theory test or a practical test. It is more difficult for drivers who do not have an agreement that is reciprocal with Germany. However in this situation, it is possible to pass all the steps required without having to pass the entire driving test and training procedure.
To convert your foreign driving licence into Fuhrerschein, or a Fuhrerschein to be eligible, you need to complete an application and submit all required documents to the local driving license office (also known as Fuhrerscheinstelle). The process of converting licenses may differ depending on the federal state. It is therefore advised to contact or visit the website of your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to find out more about the requirements specific to in your area.
You will need to provide proof of identity, a photo and a valid driving licence and a certificate attesting to your eyesight and health. You will also need to pay the appropriate fees. It is best to apply as soon as you can and preferably before your foreign driving license expires, to ensure that you receive your Fuhrerschein in time. It is recommended to keep your old licence until you receive your new licence, as it can be useful for identification purposes.