Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If your driver's license was issued in Australia, Canada, USA, South Africa or New Zealand, then you have full reciprocity with Germany and are able to drive in Germany without having to pass any tests.
The procedure for exchanging a license is generally identical in every federal state (Lander). You'll need to submit a letter explaining the reason to exchange your passport and licence. German is also highly recommended.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein is a document that grants the right to drive in Germany. It is a highly sought-after document that represents not only 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 however it is vital for anyone who wants to work and live in Germany.
The specific rules and requirements for the Fuhrerschein differ depending on the kind of license and the applicant. 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 don't 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 offenses. In these instances, your driving license will be confiscated and you will not be able to obtain it back until a specific time period has passed (called the Sperrfrist).
Fuhrerschein holders are also subject to a range of rules that ensure their safety as well as the safety of other road users. This includes a mandatory minimum insurance coverage, the requirement to wear a seat belt at all time, and the ban of using electronic devices while driving. The holders of a driver's license must also keep an excellent standard of driving and not drink and operate a vehicle.
If you are a resident of an EU country or EEA and you are planning to move to Germany it is important to note that your driving permit from your home country can be used in Germany for up to six months. After that, however, you will need to get a German license to continue driving. You could be penalized and face other consequences if you do not.
To avoid these problems, it's best to apply for a Fuhrerschein as quickly as you can. You can do this by visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city in which you're registered as a resident. You'll need proof of your identity, a copy of your current license as well as other documents to complete the process.
How do I apply to receive a Fuhrerschein?
The process of getting Fuhrerscheins is different in each federal state (Land) because laws are formulated on the national level, however individual states tend to interpret them differently. You should always check with the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle - usually housed within your local Citizens' Office) to find out what the procedure is.
Before you apply, you will need to ensure that your original licence 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 agreement of reciprocity with Germany. You must also have resided in the same country that issued your licence for a minimum of the equivalent of 185 consecutive days.
When you visit your Fuhrerscheinstelle they will check that you're eligible to apply by scrutinizing your documents. Then, you'll be asked to take the Sehtest, a simple test that checks if your eyesight meets the minimum standards for safe driving. If needed, you may use corrective lenses to pass the test.
If you pass the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle an acknowledgement that your application was approved. Keep this document in mind, because you will need to show it when picking up your new German license. You will receive your Abgabensbescheid within a couple of weeks. The document is the confirmation of the license fee that is around EUR35. After you have paid the fee, you will be able to pick up your new German license.
It's not an easy task to obtain a Fuhrerschein, and you will need some time. We can make the process as simple as possible for you by providing a step-bystep guide and help you gather the necessary documentation. We can also help with the German driving test, if required. Contact us for more information on our services. 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 in the future, you'll need to swap your license for one called a Fuhrerschein. It's a little more complicated than simply swapping your current international driver's license to one German one, as you'll have to take the driving test and theory here (or at least attempt). However, it is feasible.
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 formalities. You will also need to get your vehicle insured and it's a good idea to take some extra driving lessons for practice.
After you have completed all these steps, you'll receive a letter confirming that your application was approved. This document is called Bescheinigung and you'll need to keep this until your new license arrives in the post.
You can complete the final step by visiting the office of your local driver's license once you have received your Bescheinigung. führerschein ohne prüfung legal 'll also have to present your Fuhrerschein as well as any other documents that are required.
You will get your new driving license within four weeks after you've submitted your application. Once you receive your new driving license you are legally able to drive in Germany.
You can pay a small fee to get your licence printed at the Burgeramt If you don't want to wait. This will help you save time but it's not cheap and the quality of the license will be different.
You're technically able to get away by driving with your international license in Germany until January 2022. After that, you'll run into issues if you're pulled over by a cop. You'll also have to pay more for insurance on your car. If you're planning on staying in Germany for more than six months, it's best to obtain your German driving license as soon as you can. And the best way to do that is by following this comprehensive step-by-step guide.
How do I convert my EU/EEA driving licence to a German Fuhrerschein?
If you have a driving licence from a country that is part of the EU or EEA (which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway), you can continue to use it up to six months following your move to Germany. If you plan to stay longer or if your licence has expired, you will have to exchange it for a German license. This is an obligation of law and the only way to renew your licence beyond the date of expiration. There are exceptions if you have certificates attesting to your eyesight and health. For more information, call your local office for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle).
Driving licences issued by countries that have reciprocal agreements with Germany like Australia, Canada, Japan and the USA can be transferred without the requirement of a theory or practical test. It is more difficult for drivers who do not have a reciprocal agreement with Germany. However in this situation, it is possible to complete all the steps required without having to undergo a full testing and training procedure.
To convert your foreign driving licence into a Fuhrerschein to be eligible, you need to submit an application and all the required documents to the local driving licensing office (also known as Fuhrerscheinstelle). The process of converting 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 as well as a certificate attesting your good health and vision. You'll also have to pay the appropriate fees. It is recommended to apply for the transfer as soon as possible, and at least well before your foreign driving license expires, so that you can receive your Fuhrerschein in time for that date. It is advised to keep your old driving license until you get your new one. This can be used to identify you for to identify you.