How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
If you're planning to drive in Germany you'll need to obtain a license. However, the process can be expensive and lengthy. This could be an important issue for Americans who want to travel on the Autobahn.
There are ways around this. The first step is to contact an Fahrschule that deals with foreigners.
Requirements
If you decide to move to Germany, it is important to be aware of the requirement to exchange your foreign driving license to a German Fuhrerschein (or "driver's license"). The exact rules differ based on whether you are a citizen of an EU/EEA country or from a country with a specific reciprocal agreement. If you are not an EU/EEA citizen you might be required to take a theoretical and a practical test.
To get your Fuhrerschein, you must visit the local Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need a valid passport or identity card, your driving licence from your home country, and a recent passport photograph. You will have to pay a fee that is different between different authorities. In some instances, you might be required to submit the translation of your driving license and other documents. This isn't always the situation. If you are in doubt about the requirements, contact the Strassenverkehrsamt or the Fuhrerscheinstelle directly to learn more.
The next step is to pass the test for the theory. Führerschein C1 171 ohne Prüfung kaufen will be administered by a certified driving school. The written theory test will take about 30 minutes. It covers areas like road signs, traffic laws and the rules of the road. After passing the theory test, the practical test is available. The practical test includes several tasks, such as driving on motorways and city streets.
After passing the practical test, you will be able to legally drive on roads in Germany. You'll still need purchase mandatory car insurance, and your car must pass an annual safety inspection.
You must also register your vehicle and purchase a German license plates. If you are moving to Germany for more than one year, your driver's license from your home country will remain valid until the end of your first six months of residency. If you plan on renting cars or purchase your own, you must obtain an German driving license within that time. This government website has more details. Alternately, you can use carpooling websites to make long journeys.
The process
If you're not a European Union citizen, you may need to buy an German driver's license. It's not as complicated as you may think. The procedure may differ somewhat based on your home country and the agreement between Germany and it, but most of the time you can exchange your license from another country for one that is a German one without having to take any additional tests.
The first step is to make an appointment with your local Fuhrerscheinstelle or driving license office. Bring your existing driving licence and a recent passport picture and proof of your identity. Your Fuhrerscheinstelle will then review the documents and determine whether or not you're able to transfer your license. This process typically takes two to four weeks.
After submitting the application, you will need to take both a theory and a practical test. The Fuhrerscheinstelle will then print your new licence when you have passed both tests. You'll be notified when it's ready to pick up. You can purchase mandatory car insurance through DA Direkt or other German companies after you have obtained your license.
Some countries, such as the USA, have an agreement of reciprocity with Germany and don't require additional tests or documents. Other countries, such as Australia aren't and have to pass an examination in writing prior to obtaining the driving license.
Like many bureaucratic procedures in Germany, the way this process works can vary from state to state (Lander) to federal state. You should check with your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to see what procedures are in place in the area you reside in. Failure to do so can cost you money and time. Another option is to buy fake German driver's license, but this comes with its own set of issues. Besides, it's illegal. And if you're stopped by the police, they'll be able to tell it's not real. And it's definitely not worth the risk. Use the official process unless you're in a hurry. It's more beneficial for everyone in the long in the long run.
Fees
The cost of obtaining a German driving license is costly. In addition to the initial application fee, you will also have to pay for your tuition at the Fahrschule as well as any additional driving lessons you may need. In addition, you'll have to buy mandatory insurance for your vehicle. The cost for this will vary based on the type of vehicle you intend to drive, however most are relatively cheap. Be prepared to pay for both the theoretical test as well as the practical test.
If you are a resident of a country which isn't part of the EU, then it may be possible to exchange your current license to the German driving license. This process is expensive and complicated and you'll have to provide proof of your legal residency in the country. You'll also need to pass an eye and medical test. In some cases you may also need to prove that your driver's license was valid at the time of its expiry in your home country.
You can also go to a local Fahrschule to prepare for your driving test. These classes will give you an amount of driving lessons to enable you to pass both the road and written test. Additionally, you will be required to complete a first aid course.
After having passed the written and road tests, you will be given a temporary driving license which is valid for three months or until you get your EU driver's licence (whichever occurs later). You must keep this license with you at all times when you are driving in Germany.
If you do not pass your driving test, you are able to take it again after several weeks. It is important to allow ample time to prepare for the practical test because it is very difficult. It's a good idea to review the German road rules and to practice with an instructor before taking the test. There are a variety of sources to help you prepare for your test including official apps, online sites, and driving schools.
Documents required
If you are an expat living in Germany, you should be aware of the steps and costs involved in purchasing an driving license. You will be required to register your car, get insurance, and pass a driver's exam. It's important to know the different types driving licenses in Germany. You might consider taking a driving test at a Fahrschule prior to taking your driving test. These courses are costly however they are essential for a safe and smooth transition to the German roads.
There are many ways to buy a driving license in Germany and the procedure differs based on whether you're an EU citizen or not. Non-EU citizens are able to use their foreign driving license for a period of six months following their relocation to Germany, but they must exchange it or obtain an German license to continue driving. The driver's licence must also be valid in every member state of the European Union.
The first step in obtaining a driving license is to visit the local Driving License Office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). You'll need your driving license from abroad along with a passport photo and an eye-sight test. It's a good idea set up an appointment for four weeks prior to when your current license expires. This lets you avoid having to take a new driver's exam or pay an annual renewal fee.
Once you have all the necessary documents You can take them to the Fuhrerscheinstelle to be processed. They will then confirm the information and submit the information to the government. Typically, it takes between two and six weeks for the transfer to be approved by the government. The Fuhrerscheinstelle will issue you the slip that permits you to drive for a period of time.
If your foreign driver's licence is stolen or lost, you must provide the authorities with a declaration of the incident and also stating that you will return it to them if found. It is also necessary to inform the police.
An international driving permit (IDP) is a translation of your national license that you can use for up to a year in countries that recognize it. You can purchase an IDP in Germany from Fahrschule, Fahrschule or a car club for between 55 and 85 euros.