Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If your driver's license was issued in Australia, Canada, USA, South Africa or New Zealand and New Zealand, then you are granted full reciprocity with Germany and can drive here without taking any tests.
The procedure for exchanging licenses is the same in all states that are federal (Lander). You'll need to submit an explanation of the reasons to exchange your passport and licence. German is also highly recommended.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein is a type of driving license that gives individuals the legal authority to operate vehicles in Germany. It is a highly regarded 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 who wants to work and live in Germany.
The specific rules and requirements for a Fuhrerschein vary depending on the kind of license and the individual. In general, applicants must be over the age of eighteen and possess a valid driver's license from their country of origin or another that has reciprocity with Germany. When you exchange your driving license, you do not need to pass the written test or a test of the practical.
A Fuhrerschein is not valid for people who have committed serious criminal or traffic violations. In these instances, your driving license will be revoked and you won't be able retrieve it until a certain time period (called Sperrfrist) has passed.
To ensure that all drivers are keeping their safety and that of others on the road in mind, there are numerous stipulations for Fuhrerschein holders. There are also requirements for Fuhrerschein holders, such as a minimum level of insurance and the requirement to wear a seatbelt, and the ban on using electronic devices while driving. Fuhrerschein holders must also maintain a high standard of driving, and not drink while operating a vehicle.
If you are a resident of an EU country or EEA and are planning to move to Germany it is crucial to note that your driving licence from your home country can be used in Germany for up to 6 months. After six months, you'll need to obtain an German driving license to continue driving. If you don't, you could be penalized with penalties and fines.
To avoid such issues, it's best to apply for a Fuhrerschein as soon as possible. You can apply by going to the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city in which you're registered as a resident. You will need to provide proof of your identity, a photocopy of your current license, and other documentation to complete the process.
How do I apply for a Fuhrerschein?
The process of obtaining Fuhrerscheins differs in each state (Land) since laws are set at the national level, however states have the tendency to interpret them in different ways. You should always check with the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle which is usually located within your local Citizens' Office) to learn more about how things work.
You must confirm whether your original license is valid and that it was issued in a country which is part of the EU/EEA or a nation with a reciprocal agreement with Germany. You will also need to have lived in the country that issued your licence for a minimum of 185 days.
When you visit your Fuhrerscheinstelle, they will check that you're eligible for the program by examining your documents. You will then be asked to take the Sehtest. This is a quick test of vision that confirms your eyesight is up to the minimum standards for a safe driver. If you are required, you can opt for corrective lenses to pass the test.
After passing the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle an acknowledgement that your application has been accepted. This document is crucial, as you'll need 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 around EUR35. After you have paid the fee, you can pick-up your new German license.
Finding a Fuhrerschein isn't a simple process and will most likely take you some time to complete. We can make the process as easy as we can by guiding you through the process step-by-step and help you gather the necessary documentation. In addition, we can help with the German driving tests if required. For more information on our services we invite you to contact us. 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 you'll eventually have to exchange your license in exchange for the Fuhrerschein. It's more complex than just swapping your international license for the German driver's licence, as you'll need to pass the theory and driving tests here (or at the very least attempt). However, it is possible.
The process to upgrade your Fuhrerschein into a full driving license starts by enrolling in a "Fahrschule" or driving school. They will help you with your paperwork and guide through the theory and practical driving lessons. It is also necessary to get your vehicle insured and it's a good idea to take some extra driving lessons to get used to.
After you have completed these steps, you'll receive a letter confirming that your application was successful. This document is referred to as a Bescheinigung and you should keep it until your new licence arrives in the mail.
You are able to complete the final step by visiting your local driving license office after you have received your Bescheinigung. You'll also need to present your Fuhrerschein as well as any other relevant documents.
You will receive your new driving license in the mail approximately four weeks after you've submitted your application. Once you receive your new driving licence you are able to legally drive in Germany.
If you don't wish to wait for your license to be delivered by mail You may pay a bit more to have it made at the Burgeramt. It will cut down on time however the quality of the license will be different.
You are able to drive in Germany with your international license until January 2022. However, you will have problems if you are pulled over by the police. You'll also need to pay more for insurance on your car. If you're planning to stay in Germany for more than six months, you must get your German driving license as soon as you can. This extensive guide will teach you how to get your German driving licence.
How do I exchange my EU / EEA licence to an 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 to stay longer, or if your licence has expired, you'll need to exchange it for the German license. This is a legal requirement and the only way to renew your driving licence after the date of expiration. There are exceptions if you have certificates that prove your good health and vision. For more information, call your local office for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle).
Driving licenses issued by countries that have reciprocal agreements, for example, Australia and Canada or the USA can be transferred to Germany without a theory test or practical test. The process is more complicated for drivers from countries which do not have this arrangement, however even in these situations, it is possible to complete the necessary steps without going through a full driving training and testing procedure.
The first step to convert your foreign driver's licence to a Fuhrerschein is to submit an application form along with the necessary documents to your local driving licence office, also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. The process of converting a licence can differ by federal state. To find out about the requirements in your area it is best to call or visit your local Fuhrerscheinstelle.
registrierten führerschein kaufen must provide proof of your identity with a photo, an official driving license along with a completed certificate attesting to your health and vision. You will also need to pay the appropriate fees. It is recommended to apply for the transfer as soon as possible and at the very least before your foreign driving licence expires, so that you can receive your Fuhrerschein in time for that time. It is also recommended to keep your old license until you receive your new one since it could be useful to identify yourself.