Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If you are a holder of a driver's license from Australia, Canada, USA or New Zealand, you can drive in Germany without any tests.
The process for exchanging a license is identical in every federal state (Lander). You must submit an explanation in writing of the reason for exchanging your passport and license. German is also highly recommended.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein allows you to drive in Germany. It is a highly regarded document that demonstrates not only the ability of driving, but also independence, freedom and responsibility. It's not an easy process to get a Fuhrerschein but it's essential for anyone who wants to live and work Germany.
The specific requirements and rules for a Fuhrerschein vary depending on the type of license and person applying for it. Generally speaking wie kann ich meinen führerschein kaufen must be above the age of 18 and have an active driver's license from their home country or a different nation that has reciprocity with Germany. Reciprocity typically means that you don't need to pass a written or practical driving test when you change your license.
A Fuhrerschein is not valid for those who have committed serious traffic or criminal offenses. In these cases, your driving license will be taken away and you will not be able to retrieve it until a certain time period (called Sperrfrist) has passed.
Fuhrerschein holders are also subject to a number of stipulations that ensure their safety as well as that of other road users. There are also requirements for Fuhrerschein holders, such as the requirement for a minimum amount of insurance as well as the requirement to wear a seatbelt, and the ban on using electronic devices while driving. Fuhrerschein holders must also maintain an excellent standard of driving, and never drink or operate a motor vehicle.
If you're a resident of an EU or EEA country and are planning to move to Germany it is crucial to be aware that your driving permit from your home country will be valid in the country for up to six months. After that, however you will have to get an German license in order to continue driving. You will be fined and suffer other penalties if not.
To avoid any issues, it is a good idea to apply for a Fuhrerschein as soon as you can. You can apply by visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city in which you are registered as resident. You will need to provide proof of your identity, a photocopy of your current license and other documentation to complete the procedure.
How do I apply for a Fuhrerschein?
The process for obtaining a Fuhrerschein is different in each federal state (Land) because laws are set on the national level, however individual states tend to interpret them in different ways. Always check with your local driving licensing authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle which is usually located within your local citizens' office) to find out how things work.
Before you apply, you'll be required to verify that the original licence you obtained is valid, and that it was issued by a country that is a member of the EU / EEA or a country that has an agreement of reciprocity with Germany. You must also have resided in the country that issued your license for at least 185 days.
When you visit your Fuhrerscheinstelle they will determine if you're eligible to apply by examining your documents. Then, you'll take a Sehtest which is a basic vision test which verifies that your eyesight meets the minimum standards required for safe driving. If needed, you may opt for corrective lenses to pass the test.
If you pass the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a confirmation that your application was accepted. This document is vital since you'll require it to get your new German license. Within 2-3 weeks, you will receive an Abgabensbescheid, which contains a confirmation and invoice for the fee you pay for your licence, which is approximately EUR35. Once this is paid you can collect your new German license.
It is not an easy process to obtain a Fuhrerschein and you'll need time. We can make the process as easy as it can be for you by guiding you through the process step-by-step and assisting you in obtaining the necessary documentation. We can also help with the German driving test if necessary. For more information on our services Contact us. We look forward hearing from you.
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you are planning to drive in Germany it is necessary to swap your international driver's license for the German Fuhrerschein. It's a bit more difficult than just swapping your existing international driver's license for one German one, as you'll need to pass the driving test and theory here (or at the very least, attempt). It is still possible.
Enrolling in a driving class or "Fahrschule" is the first step towards changing your Fuhrerschein to a full driving license. They will assist you with your paperwork and guide through the theoretical and practical driving lessons. You will also need to get your vehicle insured and it's a good idea to take a few extra driving lessons to get used to.
Once you have completed all these steps, you will receive a letter confirming that your application was successful. This document is called Bescheinigung and you'll need to keep this until you receive your new license in the mail.
Once you have your Bescheinigung you can go to your local driving license office to finish the final step in the procedure. You will need to present your Fuhrerschein, a photograph and a proof of identity as well as any other documents that are relevant.
You will receive your new driving license in the mail around four weeks after having completed the application. Once you receive your new driving licence you are able to legally drive in Germany.
You can pay a small fee to have your license issued at the Burgeramt If you don't want to wait. This will save you time but it's not cheap and the quality of your licence will differ.
You're technically allowed to drive with driving on your international license in Germany until January 2022. After that, you'll have issues if you're stopped by a cop. You'll also need to pay more for car insurance. If you plan to stay in Germany for more than six months, you should get your German driving license as soon as you can. This extensive guide will teach you how to get your German driving license.
How do I exchange my EU / EEA license for a German Fuhrerschein?
If your driver's license was issued by a country within the EU or the EEA which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway You are able to use it for up to six months after moving to Germany. If you plan on staying longer than that or the license is expired, you will have to exchange it to one that is a German licence. This is an obligation of law and the only method to renew your license beyond its original expiry date. Exceptions may be made when you have a certificate attesting to your eyesight and health. Contact your local driving licence office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) to find out more.
Driving licenses issued by countries that have reciprocal agreements, like Australia and Canada, or the USA could 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 of reciprocity with Germany. However, even in this case it is possible to complete all the necessary steps without having to undergo the entire driving test and training process.
To change your foreign driving license into Fuhrerschein, you must first apply for a Fuhrerschein to be eligible, you need to submit an application along with all the required documents to the local driving licensing office (also called Fuhrerscheinstelle). The procedure for transferring your licence can vary by federal state (Land). It is therefore advised to call ahead or visit the website of your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to learn more about the specific requirements in your region.
You will be required to provide evidence of your identity, an official driver's license along with a certificate attesting to your good health and vision. You'll also have to pay the appropriate fees. It is best to apply as soon as you can and at least before your driving license from another country expires, to ensure that you receive your Fuhrerschein in time. It is advised to keep your old driving licence until you get your new one. This can be used to identify you for to identify you.