Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If your driver's license was issued in Australia, Canada, USA, South Africa or New Zealand, then you have full reciprocity with Germany and are able to drive in Germany without any test.
The process for exchanging a licence is largely identical in every federal state (Lander). You'll need a formal letter explaining the reason you are exchanging your passport and license photos. 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 operate vehicles in Germany. It is a highly regarded document that not only demonstrates the ability of driving, but also independence, freedom and accountability. It can be difficult, but it is essential for anyone wanting to live and work in Germany.
The rules and requirements for the Fuhrerschein vary based on the type and individual. Applicants must have an active driving license from their country of origin or another country that has reciprocity with Germany. When you exchange your driving license, you do not need to pass the written test or a practical test.
A Fuhrerschein is not valid for people who have committed serious criminal or traffic infractions. In these instances, your driving license will be taken away and you won't be able to get it back until a certain time period has passed (called the Sperrfrist).
Fuhrerschein holders are also subject to a variety of conditions that guarantee their safety and that of other road users. There are also rules for holders of Fuhrerschein which include a minimum level of insurance as well as the requirement to wear a seatbelt, and the prohibition of using electronic devices while driving. The holders of a driver's license must also keep a high 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 note that your driving permit from your home country can be used in Germany for up to 6 months. But, after that you must get an German license to continue driving. If you do not, you could be subject to penalties and fines.
To avoid these problems, it's best to apply for a Fuhrerschein application as soon as you can. You can do this by visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city in which you're registered as a resident. You'll need to present proof of your identity, a copy of your current license, as well as other documents to complete the process.
How do I apply for a Fuhrerschein?
The procedure for getting a Fuhrerschein varies in each state. While laws are formulated at the national level, individuals states interpret them differently. To learn more about the procedure, you should always contact the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) - which is usually within the local office of your citizens.
You must ensure whether your original license is valid and that it was issued in a country which is part of the EU/EEA or a nation with a reciprocal arrangement with Germany. You will also need to reside in the country that issued your license for at least 185 days.
When you visit your Fuhrerscheinstelle, they will determine if you're eligible for the program by examining your documents. Then, you'll be asked to take an Sehtest, a simple test that checks if your eyesight meets the minimum requirements for safe driving. If needed, you may opt for corrective lenses to pass the test.
After you have passed the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a Bescheinigung that your application was accepted. Keep this document in mind, because you will need to present it when you pick up your new German license. Within legalen führerschein kaufen of weeks, you will receive an Abgabensbescheid, which contains an acknowledgment and an invoice for your license fee of around EUR35. After you have paid the fee and received, you will be able to pick up your new German licence.
It is not an easy task to get a Fuhrerschein and you'll need time. We can make the process as easy as we can by guiding you through the process step-by-step and help you gather the necessary documentation. We can also assist you with the German driving test if needed. For more information on our services, please contact us. 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 for a Fuhrerschein. It's a little more complicated than just swapping your existing international driver's license for one German one, because you'll have to take the driving test and theory here (or at least try). But it is still possible.
The process of upgrading your Fuhrerschein to a fully-fledged driving license starts by enrolling in an "Fahrschule" or driving school. They will assist you with the paperwork and guide you through the practical and theoretical driving lessons. You'll also need to insure your car and attend additional driving lessons to improve your skills.
After you have completed these steps, you'll receive a letter that confirms that your application was approved. This document is known as Bescheinigung, and you should keep this until you receive your new license in the post.
You are able to complete the final step in the process by visiting your local driving license office once you have received your Bescheinigung. You'll need to show your Fuhrerschein, a photo and a proof of identification, along with any other relevant documents.
You will receive your new driving license in the mail around four weeks after having submitted your application. Once it's in your mailbox, you can begin to legally drive in Germany!
If you don't want to wait for your license to be delivered in the mail, you may pay a bit more to have it printed at the Burgeramt. This will help you save time but it's not cheap and the quality of the licence will be different.
You are able to drive in Germany with your international license until January 2022. However, you will encounter problems if stopped by the police. In addition, you'll likely have to pay more for insurance for your vehicle. If you're planning to stay in Germany for longer than six months, you should get your German driving license as soon as possible. And the best way to do that is by following this comprehensive step-by-step guide.
How do I change my driving license from the EU/EEA to a German Fuhrerschein?
If you have a driving licence from a country that is part of the EU or EEA (which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway), you can keep it for up to six months following your move to Germany. If you intend to stay longer than that or if your driving licence is expired, you will need to exchange it to one that is a German licence. This is an obligation of law and the only way to renew your licence beyond its original expiry date. If you have certificates attesting your eyesight or health or eyesight, an exception can be made. For more information, call the local office for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle).
Driving licences issued by countries that have reciprocal agreements, for example, Australia and Canada, or the USA can be transferred to Germany without having to pass a theory or practical test. The process is more complex for drivers who come from countries that do not have this arrangement, however even in these instances, it is possible to complete the necessary steps without going through a full driving training and testing procedure.
The first step in converting your foreign driver's licence to a Fuhrerschein is to submit an application form along with the necessary documents to your local driving license office or the Fuhrerscheinstelle. The procedure for exchanging licenses can differ from state to federal state. It is therefore advised to call ahead or visit the website of your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to learn more about the requirements specific to in your area.
You'll need to provide proof of your identity as well as valid driver's license along with a certificate proving your health and vision. You'll also have to pay the relevant fees. It is advised to apply for the transfer as soon as possible, and at least well before your foreign driving licence expires to ensure that you receive your Fuhrerschein before that time. It is recommended that you keep your old driving licence until you receive your new one. This is for identification to identify you.