Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If your driver's license was issued in Australia, Canada, USA, South Africa or New Zealand You have full reciprocity with Germany and can drive here without any test.
The process for exchanging a license is generally the same in each federal state (Lander). You'll need to submit a letter explaining the reason to exchange your passport and license. German proficiency is highly recommended, as well.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein is a driving license that grants individuals the legal authority to drive vehicles in Germany. It is a highly sought-after document that symbolizes not only the ability to drive but also the freedom, independence, and responsibility that comes with it. Obtaining a Fuhrerschein can be difficult, but it is essential for anyone wanting to work and live in Germany.
The rules and requirements for a Fuhrerschein vary based on the type and individual. The applicant must possess an official driving license from their country of origin or a different country with reciprocity to Germany. Reciprocity generally means that you do not need to pass the written or practical driving test when you exchange your license.
A Fuhrerschein is not valid for those who have committed serious criminal or traffic offenses. In such cases your driving license could be taken away and you won't be able retrieve it until a certain time frame (called Sperrfrist) has passed.
Fuhrerschein holders are also subject to a range of conditions that guarantee their safety as well as the safety of other road users. There are also rules for Fuhrerschein holders which include an insurance minimum, the requirement to always wear a seatbelt and the prohibition of using electronic devices while driving. It is also important for Fuhrerschein holders, to maintain an excellent standard of driving and not drink and drive.
If you're a citizen 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 may be used in Germany for up to 6 months. After six months, you'll have to get a German driving license to continue driving. If you don't, you could be penalized with fines and other consequences.
It is best to apply for your Fuhrerschein as soon as possible to avoid issues. You can apply by visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city where you are registered as resident. To complete the process, you will require a photocopy of your current license as well as evidence of identity.
How do I apply for a Fuhrerschein?
The process of obtaining a Fuhrerschein differs in each federal state. While laws are made at a national level, individual states interpret them differently. To learn more about what the process is it is best to contact the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) - which is usually located within your local Citizens Office.
Before you apply, you'll have to confirm that the original licence you obtained is valid and that it was issued by a nation which is part of the EU or EEA or a country that has a an exclusive reciprocal agreement with Germany. You must also have resided in the country that issued your license for a minimum of 185 days.
When you visit your Fuhrerscheinstelle they will determine if you are eligible to apply by scrutinizing your documents. You will then be required to take a Sehtest. It is a quick test of your vision that will confirm your eyesight meets minimum standards for safe driver. If needed, you may make use of corrective lenses to pass the test.
After passing the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a confirmation that your application was approved. Keep this document as you will need to present it when picking up your new German license. You will receive your Abgabensbescheid within 2-3 weeks. wie kann ich meinen führerschein kaufen will contain an acknowledgement of your license fee, which is approximately EUR35. Once you have paid the fee, you can collect your new German license.
It is 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-bystep guide and helping you gather the required documentation. We can also assist you with the German driving test, if required. For more information about our services, please contact us. We would love to hear from you!
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you're moving to Germany and intend to drive in Germany you'll eventually have to exchange your license in exchange for a Fuhrerschein. It's more complex than just swapping your international driver's license for the German driver's license, since you'll have to pass both the driving and theory tests here (or at least attempt). However, it is possible.
The process of upgrading your Fuhrerschein to a fully-fledged driving licence starts with enrolling in a "Fahrschule" or driving school. They will guide you through your theory and practical lessons and help you with the paperwork. You'll also need to have your car insured, and it's a good idea to take some extra driving lessons for practice.
Once you've completed all of these steps You'll receive a confirmation letter informing you that your application has been successful. This document is known as Bescheinigung, and you should keep it until your new license arrives in the mail.
You are able to complete the final step of the process by visiting the office of your local driver's license after you have received your Bescheinigung. You will need to present your Fuhrerschein, a photo and a form of identification, along with any other documents that are relevant.
You will get your new driving license within four weeks after you've completed the application. Once you receive your new driving licence you are able to legally drive in Germany.
If you don't want wait for your licence to arrive in the mail You could pay a little more to have it made at the Burgeramt. It will cut down on time however the quality of the license will be different.
You're technically able to get away by driving with an international license in Germany until January 2022, but then you'll have issues if you're stopped by a cop. You'll also need to pay more for car insurance. If you're planning to staying in Germany for more than 6 months, you should get your German driving licence as soon as you can. The best way to get it is to follow this comprehensive step-by-step guide.
How do I convert my EU/EEA driving licence to an German Fuhrerschein?
If your driving licence was issued by a nation in the EU or the EEA, which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway it is possible to use it for a period of up to six months after you move to Germany. If you plan to stay longer, or if your licence has expired, you'll have to exchange it for a German licence. This is a legal requirement and also the only way to renew your license past the expiry date of your original license. Exceptions may be made when you have a certificate that prove your good health and vision. Contact your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) to learn more.
Driving licenses from countries that have reciprocal agreements with Germany for example, Australia, Canada, Japan and the USA, can be transferred without the need to pass the passing of a practical or theory test. The process is more complex for drivers who come from countries that do not have this arrangement, however even in these situations, it is possible to complete the necessary steps without going through an entire driving education and testing procedure.
The first step in changing your driver's license from another country to a Fuhrerschein is to submit an application form and the necessary documents to your local driving licence office, also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. The procedure for exchanging licenses can differ from state to federal state. To learn more about the requirements in your area it is best to contact or visit your local Fuhrerscheinstelle.
You will be required to provide evidence of your identity, an official driver's license along with a certificate proving your health and vision. You will also have to pay the applicable fees. It is advised to apply for the transfer as soon as you can and at a minimum, well before your driving license from another country expires in order to receive your Fuhrerschein in time for that time. It is recommended to also keep your old license until you receive your new one, as it can be useful to prove your identity.