Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If you are a holder of an driver's license from Australia, Canada, USA or New Zealand, you can drive in Germany without having to pass any tests.
The procedure for exchanging a license is generally similar in every federal state (Lander). You must submit an explanation in writing of the reason for exchanging your passport and license. German proficiency is highly recommended, as well.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein gives the right to drive in Germany. It is a highly esteemed document that embodies not just the ability to drive, but also the freedom, independence and accountability that comes with it. The process of obtaining a Fuhrerschein is an arduous process but it is a must for anyone wanting to live and work in Germany.
The rules and requirements for a Fuhrerschein differ based on the type of applicant and the individual. The applicant must possess an official driving license from their country of origin or another nation that has reciprocity with Germany. Reciprocity typically means that you do not have to take an exam for driving proficiency or a written test when you change your license.
It is also important to know that a Fuhrerschein is not able to be used by those who have been convicted of serious traffic violations or committed criminal offences. In these instances your driving license could be taken away and you won't be able to retrieve it until a certain time frame (called Sperrfrist) has passed.
To ensure that all drivers keep their safety as well as the safety of other motorists in mind, there are many rules and regulations for Fuhrerschein holders. There are also stipulations for holders of Fuhrerschein that include the requirement for a minimum amount of insurance and the requirement to wear a seatbelt, and the prohibition of using electronic devices when driving. It is also crucial for Fuhrerschein holders, to maintain an acceptable standard of driving and not drink and drive.
If you are a resident of an EU country or EEA and you are planning to move 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 führerschein kaufen in deutschland , you'll have to get a German driving license to continue driving. If you do not, you could be liable to penalties and fines.
To avoid any problems, it's recommended to apply for a Fuhrerschein application as soon as possible. This can be done by going to the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city in which you're registered as a resident. To complete the process, you will require a photocopy of your current license and proof of identity.
How do I apply for an Fuhrerschein?
The process of getting a Fuhrerschein is different in each state (Land), as laws are set on the national level, however states interpret them differently. To learn more about the procedure, you should always contact your local driving license authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle) which is usually located within the local office of your citizens.
You will need to check that your original license is valid and that it was issued in a country which is part of the EU/EEA or a nation that has a special reciprocal arrangement with Germany. You should also have lived in the same country that issued your licence for a minimum of 180 consecutive days.
When you visit your Fuhrerscheinstelle, they will determine if you're eligible to apply by looking over your documents. You will then be asked to take an Sehtest. This is a straightforward test of your vision that will confirm your eyesight is up to the minimum standards for safe driver. If needed, you may opt for corrective lenses to pass the test.
After passing the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a Bescheinigung that your application was accepted. Keep this document since you will have to show it when you pick up your new German licence. Within a couple of weeks, you will receive an Abgabensbescheid, which contains a confirmation and invoice for your licence fee of around EUR35. Once you have paid your fee, you can collect your new German license.
It's not an easy process to get a Fuhrerschein and you will need some time. We can help make the process as simple as it can be for you by providing a step-by-step guide and assisting you in obtaining the necessary documentation. We can also assist with the German driving tests if required. For more information on our services Contact us. We are looking forward to hearing from you!
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you're planning to move to Germany and intend to drive in Germany, you will eventually need to exchange your license for a Fuhrerschein. It's more complex than just swapping your international driver's license for a German driver's license, since you'll have to pass both the theory and driving tests here (or at least attempt). It is, however, possible.
Enrolling at a driving school or "Fahrschule" is the first step towards making your Fuhrerschein a full driving licence. They will assist you with the paperwork and guide you through the practical and theoretical driving lessons. You will also need to get your vehicle insured and it's a good idea to attend a few additional driving lessons to practice.
Once you have completed all these steps, you'll be sent a letter to confirm that your application was successful. This document is called a Bescheinigung and you should keep it until your new license is delivered to you.
You are able to complete the final step in the process by visiting the office of your local driver's license once you have received your Bescheinigung. You'll also need to bring your Fuhrerschein along with any other relevant documents.
You will receive your new driving permit in the mail approximately four weeks after having applied. After you have received your new driving license you are legally able to drive in Germany.
You can pay a fee to get your licence printed at the Burgeramt in case you don't want to wait. This will save you some time, but it's not cheap, and the quality of the licence will differ.
You can technically get away by driving with an international license in Germany until January 2022, but after that you'll have issues if you're stopped by a police officer. Plus, you'll probably have to pay more in car insurance. If you're planning to stay in Germany for more than six months, you should get your German driving license 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 driving licence from the EU/EEA to a German Fuhrerschein?
If you have a driving license from a nation that is within the EU or EEA (which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway) you are able to keep it for up to six months following your move to Germany. If you are planning to stay longer than this, or when your driving license is due to expire, you will have to exchange it to the German licence. This is an obligation under the law as well as the only way to renew your driving license following the expiry date of its original. If you have certificates attesting your good health or eyesight or eyesight, an exception can be granted. Contact your local driving licensing office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) to find out more.
Driving licenses from countries that have reciprocal agreements with Germany, such as 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 difficult for drivers from countries that do not have this arrangement, however even in these situations, it is possible to pass the necessary steps without going through a full driving training and testing.
To change your foreign driving license into a Fuhrerschein one, you must submit an application and all the required documents to the local driving licensing office (also known as Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact procedure to exchange your license can differ based on the federal state (Land). It is therefore recommended to call ahead or visit the website of your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to find out more about the requirements specific to for your particular area.
You'll need to submit proof of your identity as well as an official driver's license and a medical certificate attesting your good health and vision. You'll also have to pay the applicable fees. It is best to apply as soon as possible and at least before your foreign driving license expires to ensure you get your Fuhrerschein on time. It is suggested that you keep your old driving license until you receive your new one. It can be used to identify you for purposes.