14 Questions You Might Be Anxious To Ask Buy A German Driving License
How to Buy a German Driving License
You need a valid license to drive on the Autobahn. If your country of residence is listed in Germany's "Annex 11" you can transfer your driving license with little effort.
However, this isn't true for all states.
Requirements
There are a number of requirements you need to meet to get a German driving license. First, you must pass a written exam. The examiner will ask you questions regarding road signs and traffic laws. You will be issued your license after passing the test. If you fail, you may take the test as many times as you'd like. However, you'll have to wait at least two weeks before taking the next test.
You also need to have an active residence permit and have completed the required number of driving lessons (Pflichtstudent). You must also register your car and pay your car tax. The requirements for these documents vary between federal states (Lander). It is recommended to contact your local Fuhrerscheinstelle, or driving licensing office for more details.
There are different requirements for those who aren't from the EU. Countries that have a special reciprocal agreement with Germany can easily swap their driving licenses from abroad to a German driving licence. People from other countries, however, will need to take a theory or practical test to obtain their driving license.
You will also need to possess a passport that is valid. You may be required to submit the original birth certificate or marriage certificate, along with proof of address. Some Fuhrerscheinstelle require you to surrender your old driver's licence and can be a hassle in the process. If this is the situation you should consider using Lingoking for a certified translation which will be accepted by all Fuhrerscheinstelle.
The process of obtaining a driving permit in Germany can be an intimidating procedure but it doesn't need to be. There are a number of resources that can help you through the process. These include driving schools as well translation services. The most important thing is to know the requirements for each class, and then take an exam that is appropriate for your vehicle type. Once you have passed your test, you can drive legally and safely in Germany. Just ensure you have a sharp eye sight and are prepared for long drives.
Fees
If you already have a valid driving license from an EU or US state that reciprocates and reciprocity, you can exchange it for a German license without having to take the theory test or the practical. You will also need to pass a first aid course and pass an eye exam. Based on the circumstances you might be required to pay additional charges. This is usually the case when your German is minimal, or if you need to take additional lessons at a Fahrschule. It is also necessary to purchase a first aid kit and insurance and both could be costly.
The cost of obtaining a German driving licence is dependent on the location you're from and the type of vehicle you're driving. In deutscher führerschein zu verkaufen for instance it's difficult to get a motorcycle license due to the limited number motorcycles on the roads. Additionally, an official motorcycle license requires plenty of practice as well as an additional theoretical and practical test.
The purchase of a German driver's licence is a long, lengthy process, and it can be expensive. If you're not a European citizen the process can take up to up to six months. Upon arriving in Germany you'll need to exchange your foreign license at a local driving licence office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before expiring. Afterwards, you'll need to take the oral and practical tests, and take both the theory and written exams.
A good idea is to find an Fahrschule that has experience working with expats as well as is familiar with the German driving licensing laws. They will help you complete the paperwork for a small fee and assist you pass your driving test. They will also give you the necessary documents, such as a copy of your passport. They will also arrange for your first-aid training and provide you with the required equipment, such as a helmet and gloves, for the practical test.
The cost of the cost of a German license is about 200 euros. This makes it less expensive for those who already have driving licenses in their home country. The fee has to be paid at the Fuhrerscheinstelle that is usually located in the same building with your municipal office. You will be notified when your new German driving license is ready for pick-up.
Timeframe
There are several factors to consider when determining the time required to obtain a driving license in Germany. You must first pass the theory and the practical test. These tests are typically conducted every week in local offices (Buergeramt). You must also pass an eye exam and complete the one-day Firste Help Course. This is a requirement for all drivers. Then, you must wait for your application to be processed. This could take anywhere from 2-4 weeks.
The process to obtain your German license is also contingent on whether you're an EU citizen or not. If you're a resident of the EU the license issued by your country will typically remain valid in Germany up until it expires. If you have a motorbike or large goods vehicle license, or if the language is not in the EU it is necessary to convert it into an German one.
In this instance you may have to complete an extra driving course and take additional tests on the road. You'll also need to pass a written exam. It is recommended to complete the theory and practice driving classes at a driving school in your region. Ask your local Strassenverkehrsamt or search online to find driving schools in the area.
If you're an American citizen, the process of acquiring an German license could be very lengthy. You'll have to surrender your U.S. driver's license in most German offices, so be sure that it's a certified version. The easiest way to obtain a certified translation is to use an online service like Lingoking.
The procedure for getting the German driving license may differ widely based on the state that you live in (Lander). For specific details you must contact your local Staatsanwaltschaft. In general the process should not take more than six months. If you are unsure that it will take longer than that, it is a good idea to contact your Landesanwaltschaft prior to moving to Germany to find out what the requirements are. This will help you plan your move and avoid any surprises or delays.
Reciprocity
There isn't a definitive answer to this issue as it varies based on the country your driver's license was issued in and how long you plan to stay in Germany. It's important to note that Germans don't like driving with two different licenses. You are able to drive on your American driving license for six months, but then you must exchange it for one that is a German license. Whether or not you have to take a written examination or pass a driving test is contingent on whether the state in which you first obtained your license has reciprocity agreements with Germany. Some states, like Michigan, have full reciprocity while other states (like New York), do not.
Contact your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to make an appointment to discuss your license swap. Then, you can start the process and ensure that you have all the necessary documents. It will also give you a better sense of what you can expect. It will cost approximately 200 euros to convert a US license to an German one.
The lucky expats are from the 27 US States that have reciprocity with Germany as well as the Canadian Provinces and Territories. In these instances all you need to do is go to the Fuhrerscheinstelle and show your US driver's licence and a few documents. You'll be able to apply for a German license without having to pass any tests.
It's more difficult for those countries that don't have a reciprocity agreement with Germany. For those who are from the 13 states that do not have reciprocity, you'll need to pass both the practical and written (driving) tests. This will take a few weeks and will cost you around EUR500 total.
Some Americans find this to be a difficult and expensive process. It is essential to plan ahead if you are planning on living in Germany for a long time. If you're looking to explore the natural beauty of Europe or just go on an excursion to IKEA, having a car is an essential part of the equation.