Buying a German Driving License
To get an German driving license requires a lot of time and money. It also requires a lot of nerves. Making a mistake can cost you your license and a lot of money, while minor ones could slash your time on the road.
The good news is that citizens of certain countries have reciprocity with Germany and can easily exchange their licenses. The process varies from country to country.
1. Get an ID card
You must first obtain an identity card before you consider purchasing a German driving license. You can do this in various ways, according to your personal situation and goals. The first step is to apply for a visa, obtaining the necessary documents, and passing any necessary language and citizenship assessments. You might also want to speak with an expert in immigration who can help you navigate the process.
It can be long however it's an essential first step to legally living and working in Germany. The cost of a passport is approximately EUR90, and you'll need to submit a variety of official documents in order to have your application processed. You will need, for example an ID that is valid (e.g. driver's license or passport) as well as identification proof, proof of insurance, and a marriage or birth certificate. In some instances you may have to undergo a medical exam and submit a biometric passport photo.
In certain situations, getting a passport can be a long and complicated process, especially if you have a criminal background or a history of violent crimes. In these situations, it is a good idea for you to speak with a qualified immigration lawyer who will provide guidance and assistance throughout the entire process.
If you're a citizen of the EU or EEA or a country that has an exclusive reciprocal driving license agreement with Germany You may be eligible to exchange your license from another country to a German one without having to take a theory or practical driving exam. This will vary from one country to another and even within the same city.
To find out if it is possible that you are able to exchange your license from another country for one a German one You'll need to make an appointment with the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in your city. Review the list of requirements prior to you go. They will differ from one country to the next. Additionally, you may need to get your foreign driving licence translated, which could add to the time required to complete this process.
2. Get a German Visa
It is crucial to understand that if you are not an German (or EU) citizen and you have an driving license from your country of origin it is only valid for it for six months after becoming an resident of Germany. The procedure for transferring an international driving license could differ based on the state or local authorities in Germany. However it is common to pass both the theoretical and the practical test. You may also have to have your license translated. The car club ADAC offers this service for between 55 and 85 euros.
You'll need a visa in order to remain in Germany and apply for your driving license, so ensure that you have one prior to when you arrive. You can obtain a tourist visa from the German consulate or embassy or you can obtain a business visa for working in Germany or a self-employment visa if you are moving to start your own company.
Once you have an entry visa, it's possible to begin the process of applying for a driving licence at the local Verkehrssamt (driving licensing office). You'll need to bring your original driver's license with you along with proof of insurance as well as an eye test certificate. In most instances, you'll require a translation of the driving licence into German - we recommend using Lingoking for quick and affordable online translations of documents.
It is not allowed to buy a driving license from another country while on holiday. This is considered "licensing tourist" and could have serious implications for our roads. Most cities require that you've been in the same country where your license was issued for a minimum of 185 days.
There are some non-traditional methods to avoid this like buying a fake license but it's not worth the risk. Besides, you'll be landed with a fine in case you are stopped by police. If you choose to do so we suggest that you enroll in an Fahrschule that specializes in teaching the foreigners. They can assist you navigate bureaucracy as well as find a first aid course in case you need it.
3. German Residence Permit
The German residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel), is a legal document that allows you to live in Germany. You must meet certain requirements to obtain one, which includes having lived in Germany for at least three years, and having a basic understanding of the language (level 1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). It also requires proving that you are capable of sustaining your expenses without assistance from the government as well as contributing to the state health insurance fund, and being able to take care of yourself and your family financially.
You might be able to exchange your driving licence to a German one if you have a driving licence issued by a country in the EU or EEA. This will depend on your particular circumstances and the requirements of your individual city or state. This is something your local Strassenverkehrsamt can help you with. You will also need a certificate stating your good health and vision in case you want to transfer your license.
The rules governing licenses are different in each federal state and are the same for the majority of bureaucratic issues. If you have any concerns regarding the process of obtaining a license, it is best to get in touch with your local Strassenverkehrsamt.
In general foreign drivers who want to obtain the German licence must first pass both the road test and the theoretical written test. If you have a German driving licence and have no points on your record, you may generally skip the tests. However, it is best to check with your Strassenverkehrsamt regarding the specific requirements for your particular area.
It is best to choose a Fahrschule that has experience working with expats in order to ensure that you pass both the theory and road test. They will guide you through the German licensing process for a nominal fee and will provide you with a trainer to coach you through the entire course. They can also provide advice on the best method to obtain your licence, and they can recommend an English-speaking translator in the event of need. On the website of the Bundesministerium für Bildung und Arbeits You can find an alphabetical list of accredited Fahrschulen near you.
4. Get a German Driver's License
For expats who want to move to Germany getting the German driving license is a vital step. It will let you navigate the roads more easily and allow you to drive in any type of vehicle. You must be at least 18 years old to apply. You'll also have to pass the theoretical and practical exams, complete a first-aid course, and pass an eye test. see page vary depending on what type of license you are looking to obtain, but you can expect to pay about 1500 euros for registration fees, lessons and the test.
Foreign drivers aren't required to take the test again to obtain the German license. If your driving licence was issued in an EU/EEA country or in a state that has an agreement of reciprocity with Germany it is possible to exchange it for the German Fuhrerschein (driver's license) without having to retake any of the tests. Drivers who have been driving in the EU/EEA area or in a state with a special reciprocal agreement with Germany can exchange their driving license for a German Fuhrerschein (driver's license) without having to take any tests.
If you're not eligible to transfer your licence, or if you're looking to get a motorcycle driver's license (C1) or C1), it might be quicker and easier to start from scratch and pass the German driving test(s). In these instances you'll still be required to pass both the theory and practical tests. The first step is to visit an official Fahrschule (driving school) with experience working with foreign students and is able to guide you through the process of getting your driver's license. They can also help you find the required first aid course and an eye doctor to conduct the eye test.
A good Fahrschule will charge a minimal fee for this service however the ease of having an experienced professional handle all the paperwork is worth it. It's worth the time and energy to get your license. Once you've obtained your license you can travel around Germany at your own pace.