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 in Germany without having to pass any tests.
The process for exchanging licenses is similar to all states that are federal (Lander). You'll need to submit an explanation of the reasons for the exchange of your passport and licence. 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 sought-after document that represents not only the ability to drive, but also the freedom, independence and responsibility that comes with it. It's a long and difficult process to get a Fuhrerschein, but it is essential for anyone who wishes to live and work Germany.
The requirements and rules for a Fuhrerschein vary depending on the type of license and the person applying for it. Generally speaking, applicants must be over the age of 18 and possess a valid driver's license from their country of origin or another that has reciprocity with Germany. If you are exchanging your driving license, you do not have to pass either the written test or a practical test.
It is also important to remember that a Fuhrerschein can't be used by individuals who have committed serious traffic violations or other criminal offenses. In these cases, the driving license will be confiscated and you won't be able to obtain it back until a certain time has passed (called the Sperrfrist).
Fuhrerschein holders are also subject to a variety of stipulations that ensure their safety as well as that of other road users. There are also stipulations for holders of Fuhrerschein that include the requirement for a minimum amount of insurance as well as the requirement to wear a seatbelt and the prohibition of using electronic devices when driving. Fuhrerschein holders must also maintain an excellent standard of driving, and never drink while operating a vehicle.
If you're a resident of an EU or EEA country and are planning to move to Germany, it is important to be aware that your driving license from your home country will be valid in Germany for up to 6 months. After six months, you will have to get a German driving license to continue driving. You will be fined and suffer other penalties if not.
It is recommended to apply for your Fuhrerschein immediately to avoid any issues. You can apply for a Fuhrerschein visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt in the city you reside. To complete the process, you will require a photocopy of your current license as well as evidence of identity.
How do I apply to receive a Fuhrerschein?
The process of obtaining Fuhrerscheins differs in each state (Land) because laws are set at the national level, however individual states tend to interpret them in different ways. To find out how things work you must always get in touch with the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) which is usually located in your local Citizens Office.
You must confirm whether your original license is valid and was issued in a country that belongs to the EU/EEA or a nation with a reciprocal arrangement with Germany. You must also have resided in the same country that issued your licence for a minimum of 180 consecutive days.
When you visit your Fuhrerscheinstelle they will determine if you're eligible for the program by looking over your documents. You will then be required to take the Sehtest. This is a simple test of vision that confirms your eyesight is in line with the minimum requirements for safe driver. You can use corrective glasses to pass the test if necessary.
If you pass the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a confirmation that your application has been accepted. This document is crucial, as you'll need it to pick up your new German license. You will receive your Abgabensbescheid within 2-3 weeks. This document contains a confirmation of your license fees that is around EUR35. After this fee is paid, you can pick up your new German license.
The process of obtaining a Fuhrerschein isn't an easy task, and it will most likely take you some time to complete. We can make the process as simple as we can by guiding you through the process step-by-step and helping you gather the required documents. We can also assist you with the German driving test, if required. For more information on our services we invite you to contact us. We would love to hear from you!
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you intend to drive in Germany you'll need to exchange your international driver's license for the German Fuhrerschein. It's a little more complicated than just swapping your existing international driver's license for one German one, since you'll have to take the theory test and the driving test here (or at least try). It is still possible.
Enrolling in a driving school or "Fahrschule" is the first step towards upgrading your Fuhrerschein into an official driving license. They will help you with your paperwork and guide through the theory and practical driving lessons. führerschein kaufen is also necessary to get your vehicle insured and it's a good idea to take a few extra driving lessons to get used to.
After you have completed these steps, you will receive a letter confirming that your application was successful. This document is referred to as a Bescheinigung and you should keep it until your new licence is delivered to you.
Once you have your Bescheinigung you will need to visit your local driver's license office to complete the final stage of the process. You'll also have to bring your Fuhrerschein along with any other documents that are required.
You will receive your new driving license in the mail approximately four weeks after you've applied. After you have received your new driving licence you are able to legally drive in Germany.
You can pay a small fee to have your license issued at the Burgeramt if you don't wish to wait. It will save you time however the quality will be different.
You are able to drive in Germany with your international license until January 2022. However, you will have problems if you are pulled over by the police. Additionally, you'll have to pay more for insurance on your car. If you're planning to remain in Germany for more than six months, you should get your German driving license as soon as you can. This thorough guide will help you understand how to obtain your German driving license.
How do I convert my EU/EEA driving licence to an German Fuhrerschein?
If you have a driver's license from a country within the EU or EEA (which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway) you are able to continue to use it 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 the German license. This is legally required and the only way you can renew your license beyond its original expiry date. If you have certificates attesting your good health or eyesight, an exception may be granted. For more information, call your local office for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle).
Driving licences from countries which have reciprocal agreements with Germany like Australia, Canada, Japan and the USA can be transferred without the need to pass an exam in theory or practice. It is more difficult for drivers who do not have a reciprocal agreement with Germany. However, even in this case it is possible to pass all the necessary steps without having to undergo the entire driving test and training process.
To convert your driving licence from another country to Fuhrerschein, or a Fuhrerschein to be eligible, you need to complete an application and submit all required documents to the local driving licence office (also called Fuhrerscheinstelle). The process for converting a licence can differ by federal state. To find out more about the requirements in your area, it is best to call or visit your local Fuhrerscheinstelle.
You will need to provide evidence of your identity, a photo and an original driving licence as well as a completed certificate that confirms your good eyesight and health. You'll also need to pay the appropriate fees. It is best to apply as soon as you can and at least before your foreign driving licence expires to ensure that you receive your Fuhrerschein in time. It is recommended that you keep your old driving license until you get your new one. It is for identification purposes.