Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If you are a holder of an driver's license from Australia, Canada, USA or New Zealand, you can drive in Germany without any tests.
The procedure for exchanging a license is the same in each federal state (Lander). You will need a letter explaining why you are exchanging your passport and license photos. German proficiency is highly recommended as well.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein is a driving permit that gives individuals the legal authority to drive vehicles in Germany. It is a highly-regarded document that represents not only the ability of driving but also independence, freedom and responsibility. It can be difficult however it is vital for anyone wanting to live and work in Germany.
The rules and requirements for a Fuhrerschein differ depending on the kind of license and the individual. The applicant must possess a valid driving license from their country of origin or another nation with reciprocity to Germany. If you decide to exchange your driving license, you don't have to take either an exam in writing or a practical test.
A Fuhrerschein is not valid for people who have committed serious traffic or criminal offenses. In such cases your driving license could be taken away and you won't be able retrieve it until a certain period of time (called Sperrfrist) has passed.
Fuhrerschein holders are also subject to a number of rules that ensure their safety as well as that of other road users. These include a mandatory minimum insurance coverage, a requirement to wear a seat belt at all times, and the restriction of using electronic devices while driving. It is also important for Fuhrerschein holders, to maintain a good standard of driving, and to never drink and drive.
If you're a resident of an EU country or EEA and you are planning to move to Germany it is crucial to be aware that your driving permit from your home country can be used in Germany for up to 6 months. But, after that you will have to get an German license to continue driving. Otherwise, you will be subject to penalties, fines and other sanctions.
To avoid such problems, it's a good idea to apply for a Fuhrerschein as soon as possible. You can apply by visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city in which you are registered as resident. her response 'll need to present proof of your identity, a photocopy of your current license, and other documents to complete the procedure.
How do I apply for a Fuhrerschein?
The procedure for obtaining a Fuhrerschein differs in each federal state. While laws are formulated at a national level, individual states interpret them differently. You should always check with the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle which is usually located within your local Citizens' Office) to learn more about how things work.
You must confirm whether your original licence is valid and was issued in a country that belongs to the EU/EEA or a country that has a special reciprocal agreement with Germany. You must also reside in the country that issued your licence for at least 185 consecutive days.
When you visit your Fuhrerscheinstelle, they will determine if you're eligible to apply by scrutinizing your documents. You will then be required to take an Sehtest. It is a quick test of your vision that will confirm your eyesight is up to the minimum standards for safe driver. You can also use corrective glasses to pass the test if needed.
After passing the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a confirmation that your application was accepted. Keep this document since you will have to present it when you get your new German license. You will receive your Abgabensbescheid within a couple of weeks. This document will contain a confirmation of your license fee, which is approximately EUR35. After you have paid the fee, you can collect your new German license.
It's not an easy process to obtain a Fuhrerschein and you'll need time. We can help make the process as simple as we can by providing a step-by-step guide and assisting you in obtaining the required documents. In addition, we can assist you with the German driving tests if required. For more information on our services, please contact us. We look forward hearing from you.
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you're planning to move to Germany and plan to drive here you'll eventually have to swap your license for one called a Fuhrerschein. It's more complex than just swapping your international license for one that is a German driver's licence, as you'll have to pass both the theory and driving tests here (or at the very least attempt). It is still possible.
The process of upgrading your Fuhrerschein into a full driving license begins with registering in an "Fahrschule" or driving school. They will help you with the paperwork and guide you through the practical and theoretical driving lessons. You will also need to have your car insured and it's a great idea to take some extra driving lessons to practice.
After you have completed these steps, you will receive a letter that confirms that your application was approved. This document is known as Bescheinigung, and you must keep this until your new license arrives in the mail.
Once you have your Bescheinigung, you can visit your local driver's license office to finish the final step in the procedure. You'll need to show your Fuhrerschein, a photo and a proof of identity together with any other documents that are relevant.
Once you've completed your application after submitting your application, it'll take about four weeks to receive your new driving licence in the mail. Once it's there you'll be able to legally drive in Germany!
You may pay a small amount to have your licence produced at the Burgeramt if you don't wish to wait. This will help you save time however it's not cheap, and the quality of the licence will differ.
You can drive in Germany with an international license until January 2022. However, you'll encounter problems if arrested by the police. In addition, you'll likely have to pay more in car insurance. If you plan to stay in Germany for longer than six months, you must get your German driving license as soon as possible. This thorough guide will help you understand how to obtain your German driving licence.
How do I convert my driving licence from the EU/EEA to a German Fuhrerschein?
If your driving licence was issued by a nation located in the EU or the EEA, which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway You are able to use it for up to six months after moving to Germany. If you intend to stay longer than this, or the license is due to expire, you will have to exchange it for a German licence. This is an obligation under the law and the only way to renew your license following the expiry date of its original. If you have certificates attesting your health or vision the possibility of an exception could be granted. For more information, contact the local office for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle).
Driving licences issued by countries that have reciprocal agreements with Germany like Australia, Canada, Japan and the USA are transferable without the requirement of an exam in theory or practice. It is more difficult for drivers who do not have an agreement that is reciprocal with Germany. However, even in this case it is possible to complete all the necessary steps without the need to take the entire driving test and training process.
The first step to convert your foreign driver's licence to a Fuhrerschein is to submit an application form along with the required documents to your local driving license office or the Fuhrerscheinstelle. The exact procedure to exchange your licence varies by federal state (Land). It is therefore recommended to contact or visit the website of your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to learn more details about the specific requirements for your particular area.
You will be required to provide proof of your identity as well as a valid driver's license, along with a certificate attesting to your good health and vision. You will also need to pay the applicable fees. It is recommended to apply as early as you can and preferably before your foreign driving licence expires to ensure you receive your Fuhrerschein in time. It is also recommended to keep your old driving licence until you receive your new one, as it can be useful to prove your identity.