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 here without any test.
The process for exchanging licenses is similar to all federal states (Lander). You'll need a letter explaining the reason you are exchanging your license and passport photos. German is also highly recommended.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein is a driving license that gives individuals the legal authority to operate vehicles in Germany. It is a highly regarded document that symbolizes not only the ability to drive, but also the freedom, independence and accountability that comes with it. It can be an arduous process, but it is essential for anyone wanting to live and work in Germany.
The rules and requirements for a Fuhrerschein differ based on the type of applicant and the individual. Generally speaking applicants must be over the age of eighteen and have an active driver's license from their home country or a different nation that has reciprocity with Germany. Reciprocity typically means that you do not need to pass an exam for driving proficiency or a written test when you exchange your license.
A Fuhrerschein is not valid for people who have committed serious traffic or criminal offenses. In these cases, the driving license will be taken away 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 stipulations that ensure their safety as well as that of other road users. There are also stipulations for Fuhrerschein holders that include the requirement for a minimum amount of insurance and the requirement to wear a seatbelt, as well as the prohibition on using electronic devices while driving. Fuhrerschein holders must also maintain a high standard of driving, and not drink and operate a vehicle.
If you are a resident of an EU country or EEA and are moving to Germany it is important 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 obtain an German license in order to continue driving. If you do not, you could be penalized with penalties, fines and other sanctions.
It is best to apply for your Fuhrerschein as soon as possible in order to avoid any problems. This can be done by going to the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city where you are registered as resident. You will need to provide 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 process of getting a Fuhrerschein is different in each state. While laws are formulated at an international level, different states interpret them differently. To learn more about how things work, you should always contact the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) - which is usually located within the local office of your citizens.
Before you apply, you will have to confirm that your original licence is valid and that it was issued by a nation that is part of the EU or EEA or a country that has an agreement of reciprocity with Germany. You should also have lived in the same country that issued your license for a minimum of 185 consecutive days.
Your documents will be scrutinized by your Fuhrerscheinstelle to determine whether you are eligible. Then, you will be asked to take an Sehtest. This is a quick test of vision that confirms your eyesight is in line with the minimum requirements for safe driver. You can also use corrective glasses to pass the test, if required.
After passing the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a confirmation that your application was accepted. This document is vital because you'll need it to get your new German license. You will receive your Abgabensbescheid within 2-3 weeks. This document will contain a confirmation of your license fee of approximately EUR35. After you have paid the fee, you can pick up your new German license.
Obtaining a Fuhrerschein is not an easy task and will most likely take you some time to complete. However, we can make it as smooth as possible by providing the steps-by-step instructions and assisting you in obtaining the necessary documents. We can also assist with the German driving test if necessary. Contact us for more details on our services. We are looking forward to hearing from you!
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you are planning to drive in Germany you'll need to change your international driver's licence for one called a Fuhrerschein. It's a bit more complicated than simply swapping your current international driver's license for a German one, since you'll need to pass the driving test and theory here (or at least try). It is still possible.
Enrolling at a driving school or "Fahrschule" is the first step in upgrading your Fuhrerschein into a full driving license. registrierten führerschein kaufen will guide you through your theoretical and practical classes and assist you with the formalities. It is also necessary to get your vehicle insured and it's a good idea to attend a few additional driving lessons to practice.
Once you have completed all these steps, you will receive a letter confirming that your application was approved. This document is known as Bescheinigung, and you must keep this until your new license arrives in the post.
Once you have your Bescheinigung, you will need to visit your local driver's license office to complete the final step in the process. You'll also have to present your Fuhrerschein as well as any other relevant documents.
You will receive your new driving permit within four weeks after you've completed the application. When you receive your new driving license you are legally able to drive in Germany.
You can pay a small fee to have your license issued at the Burgeramt If you don't want to wait. This will help you save time but it's not cheap, and the quality of the licence will differ.
You can technically get away by driving with your international license in Germany until January 2022, but after that you'll have issues if you're stopped by a police officer. In addition, you'll likely have to pay a lot more for car insurance. So if you're planning on staying in Germany for more than 6 months, you should obtain your German driving licence as soon as you can. And the best way to get it is to follow this thorough step-by-step instruction.
How do I exchange my EU or EEA licence in exchange for an German Fuhrerschein?
If your driving licence was issued by a nation in the EU or the EEA, which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, you can usually continue to use it for up to six months following your move to Germany. If you plan to stay longer, or if your license has expired, you'll need to exchange it for a German licence. This is legally required and the only method to renew your license past the expiry date of your original license. Some exceptions can be made in the event that you have proof that prove your good health and vision. 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, can be transferred without the requirement of the passing of a practical or theory test. It is more difficult for drivers who don't have an agreement of reciprocity with Germany. However in this situation, it is possible to complete all the steps required without the need to take a full driving test and training procedure.
The first step in converting your foreign driver's licence into a Fuhrerschein is to submit an application form along with the required documents to your local driving license office or the Fuhrerscheinstelle. The process of converting a licence can differ by federal state. It is therefore recommended to contact or visit the website of your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to find out more about the requirements specific to in your region.
You will need to provide proof of your identity with a photo, an original driving licence and a certificate that confirms your good eyesight and health. You'll also need to pay the appropriate fees. It is recommended to apply for the transfer as early as possible and at a minimum, well before your foreign driving license expires to ensure that you receive your Fuhrerschein in time for the expiration date. It is recommended to also keep your old licence until you receive your new licence, as it can be useful to identify yourself.