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 procedure for exchanging licenses is the same in all federal states (Lander). You'll need a letter explaining the reason you are exchanging your license and passport photographs. German proficiency is highly recommended, as well.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein is a driving permit that grants individuals the legal right to operate vehicles in Germany. It is a highly regarded document that represents not only the capability to drive but also independence, freedom and responsibility. It's a long and difficult process to get an Fuhrerschein, however it's essential for everyone who wants to work and live in Germany.
The specific rules and requirements for a Fuhrerschein differ depending on the type of license and the applicant. Generally speaking applicants must be over the age of eighteen and have an active driver's license from their home country or another nation that has reciprocity with Germany. Reciprocity generally means that you do not require 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 violations. In these cases, the driving license will be taken away and you will not be able to get it back until a particular period of time has been completed (called the Sperrfrist).
To ensure that all drivers have their safety as well as the safety of others on the road in mind, there are various requirements for Fuhrerschein holders. They include a minimum insurance coverage, the requirement to wear the seat belt at all times, and the restriction of using electronic devices while driving. It is also important for Fuhrerschein holders to keep a good standard of driving and never drink and drive.
If you're a citizen of an EU country or EEA and you are planning to move to Germany it is crucial to note that your driving permit from your home country can be used in Germany for up to six months. However, after that point you will have to get an German license to continue driving. If you do not, you could be liable to penalties, fines and other sanctions.
To avoid any problems, it's recommended to apply for a Fuhrerschein as quickly as possible. You can apply by visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city where you are registered as resident. To complete the process, you'll need to provide a photocopy your current license as well as proof of identity.
How do I apply for a Fuhrerschein?
The process for obtaining Fuhrerscheins is different in each federal state (Land) since laws are set on the national level, however states interpret them differently. It is recommended to always consult your local driving licensing authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle typically located in the local office of the citizens') to see what the procedure is.
Before you apply, you will have to confirm that your original licence is valid and it was issued by a country which is part of the EU / EEA or a country with an exclusive reciprocal agreement with Germany. You must also have resided in the same country that issued your license for a minimum of the equivalent of 185 consecutive days.
Your documents will be examined by your Fuhrerscheinstelle to determine if you are eligible. Then you will take an Sehtest which is a straightforward test that checks if your eyesight meets the minimum standards required for safe driving. You can also use corrective glasses to pass the test if necessary.
After passing the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a Bescheinigung that your application was accepted. This document is crucial, as you'll need it to get your new German license. Within a couple of weeks, you will receive an Abgabensbescheid which includes an acknowledgement and invoice for your licence fee of around EUR35. After this fee is paid, you can pick up your new German licence.
It's not an easy task to obtain a Fuhrerschein, and you'll need time. But, we can to make it as easy as possible by providing you with the steps-by-step instructions and assisting you in gathering the required documentation. We can also assist with the German driving test, if required. For more information on our services we invite you to contact us. We are looking forward to hearing from you.
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you intend to drive in Germany, you will need to swap your international driver's license for a Fuhrerschein. It's a bit more difficult than just swapping your international driver's license for a German one, since you'll have to take the driving test and theory here (or at the very least, attempt). It's still possible.
Enrolling at a driving school or "Fahrschule" is the first step to making your Fuhrerschein an official driving license. They will assist you with your paperwork and guide through the practical and theoretical driving lessons. You'll also have to secure your vehicle and attend 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 called Bescheinigung and you'll need to keep it until your new license is received in the post.
You can complete the final step by visiting your local driving license office once you have received your Bescheinigung. You'll also have to present your Fuhrerschein as well as any other relevant documents.
You will get your new driving license within four weeks after you've submitted your application. Once it's in your mailbox, you can begin to legally drive in Germany!
You can pay a fee to have your licence produced at the Burgeramt in case you don't want to wait. This will help you save time, but it's not cheap and the quality of your licence will differ.
You're technically allowed to drive by driving with your international license in Germany until January 2022. After that, you'll face issues if you're stopped by a cop. In addition, you'll likely have to pay a lot more for car insurance. If you're planning to staying in Germany for more than 6 months, it's best to get your German driving licence as soon as you can. And the best way to get it is by following this comprehensive step-by-step guide.
How do I convert my driving licence from the EU/EEA to an German Fuhrerschein?
If your driver's licence was issued by a nation in the EU or the EEA, which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway You are able to use it for a period of up to six months after moving to Germany. If you plan to stay for longer or your licence has expired, you'll have to exchange it for a German licence. This is an obligation of law and the only way 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 eyesight. For more information, call your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle).
Driving deutscher eu führerschein kaufen issued by countries that have reciprocal agreements, for example, Australia and Canada or the USA, may be transferred to Germany without having to pass a theory or practical test. It is more difficult for drivers who don't have an agreement that is reciprocal with Germany. However even in this scenario, it is possible to complete all the steps required without having to pass a full driving test and training process.
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 licence office or the Fuhrerscheinstelle. The process of converting licenses may differ depending on the federal state. To find out about the requirements in your area it is recommended to contact or visit your local Fuhrerscheinstelle.
You'll need to submit evidence of your identity along with a photograph and a valid driving licence as well as a completed certificate attesting to your eyesight and health. You'll also have to pay the applicable fees. It is best to apply as soon as possible and preferably before your foreign driving licence expires to ensure that you receive your Fuhrerschein in time. It is suggested that you keep your old driving licence until you get your new one. This is for identification to identify you.