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 here without having to pass any tests.
The process for exchanging a licence is largely identical in every federal state (Lander). You'll need to submit a letter explaining the reason to exchange your passport and licence. German proficiency is highly recommended, as well.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein is a type of driving license that gives individuals the legal authority to drive vehicles in Germany. It is a highly regarded document that not only demonstrates the ability to drive but also independence, freedom and responsibility. Obtaining a Fuhrerschein can be a complicated process however it is vital for anyone wanting to work and live in Germany.
The rules and requirements for the Fuhrerschein vary based on the type of applicant and the individual. Generally speaking, applicants must be over the age of 18 and possess an official driver's license issued by their home country or another nation that has reciprocity with Germany. When you exchange your driving license, you don't have to pass either an exam in writing or a practical test.
It is also important to know that a Fuhrerschein cannot be used by those who have committed serious traffic violations or other criminal violations. In these instances, your driving license will be taken away and you will not be able to get it back until a particular time has passed (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 also numerous stipulations for Fuhrerschein holders. There are also rules for holders of Fuhrerschein that include an insurance minimum as well as the requirement to wear a seatbelt, and the prohibition of using electronic devices while driving. It is also essential for Fuhrerschein holders to maintain an excellent standard of driving, and to never drink and drive.
If you are a resident of an EU country or EEA and are moving to Germany it is important to note that your driving license from your home country can be used in Germany for up to 6 months. After six months, you will require a German driving license to continue driving. Otherwise, you will be penalized with penalties, fines and other sanctions.
To avoid these issues, it's best to apply for a Fuhrerschein as soon as you can. You can apply for a Fuhrerschein by visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt in the city where you reside. deutscher führerschein kaufen will need to provide proof of your identity, a copy of your current license and other documentation to complete the procedure.
How do I apply for an Fuhrerschein?
The process of getting a Fuhrerschein varies in each federal state. While laws are formulated at the national level, individuals states interpret them differently. To learn more about how things work it is best to contact the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle) - which is usually within your local citizens office.
Before you apply, you'll have to confirm that the original licence you obtained is valid, and that it was issued by a nation that is part of the EU / EEA or a country that has a an exclusive reciprocal agreement with Germany. You must also have lived in the same country that issued your license for at least the equivalent of 185 consecutive days.
The documents you submit will be reviewed by your Fuhrerscheinstelle in order to determine if you are eligible. You will then be required to take the Sehtest. This is a simple test of vision that confirms your eyesight meets minimum standards for a safe driver. You can use corrective glasses to pass the test if necessary.
After you have passed the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a Bescheinigung that your application was accepted. Keep this document in mind, because you will need to show it when picking up your new German license. Within 2-3 weeks you will receive an Abgabensbescheid which includes an acknowledgment and an invoice for the fee you pay for your licence, which is approximately EUR35. Once this is paid, you can pick up your new German license.
The process of obtaining a Fuhrerschein isn't a simple process, and it will most likely take you some time to complete. We can help make the process as simple as we can by providing a step-by-step guide and help you gather the necessary documentation. We can also help with the German driving test if needed. For more information on our services Contact us. We would love to hear from you.
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you're planning to move to Germany and plan to drive here in the future, you'll need to swap your license for one called a Fuhrerschein. It's a bit more complicated than swapping your international driver's license for the German driver's licence, as you'll need to take both the theory and driving tests here (or at least attempt). However, it is feasible.
Enrolling at a driving school or "Fahrschule" is the first step to making your Fuhrerschein an official driving license. They will guide you through your theory and practical lessons and help you with the documentation. You'll also need to have your car insured, and it's a good idea to take some extra driving lessons to practice.
Once you've completed each step You'll receive a confirmation letter confirming that your application has been successful. This document is called Bescheinigung and you need to keep it until your new license is delivered to you.
Once you have your Bescheinigung you'll need to visit your local driving licensing office to finish the final stage of the process. You'll also have to present your Fuhrerschein as well as any other documents that are required.
After you've applied, it will take around four weeks to receive your new driving license in the mail. When you receive your new driving licence you are able to legally drive in Germany.
You can pay a fee to have your licence produced 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 differ.
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. In addition, you'll likely have to pay a lot more for insurance for your car. If you plan to stay in Germany for longer than six months, it is recommended to obtain your German driving license as soon as possible. The best way to get it is by following this comprehensive step-by-step guide.
How do I exchange my EU / EEA license in exchange for a German Fuhrerschein?
If you have a driver's licence from a country that is part of the EU or EEA (which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway) You can continue to use it for up to six months following your move to Germany. If you plan on staying longer than this, or when your driving license is due to expire, you will have to exchange it for the German licence. This is legally required and the only method to renew your 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. For more information, call the local office for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle).
Driving licences issued by countries which have reciprocal agreements, such as Australia and Canada or the USA can be transferred to Germany without the need for a theory test or practical test. The process is more difficult for drivers who come from countries that do not have this arrangement, however even in these cases it is possible to complete the necessary steps without having to undergo a full driving training and testing procedure.
The first step to convert your driver's license from another country to a Fuhrerschein is to fill out an application form and the necessary documents to your local driving licensing office which is also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. The procedure for exchanging licenses may differ depending on the federal state. It is therefore advised to call ahead or go to the website of your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to learn more about the requirements specific to for your particular area.
You will be required to show proof of your identity and valid driver's license as well as a certificate attesting to your good health and vision. You will also have to pay any applicable fees. It is advisable to apply for the transfer as soon as you can and at a minimum, well before your foreign driving licence expires in order to receive your Fuhrerschein in time for that time. It is advised to keep your old driving license until you receive your new one. It can be used to identify you for purposes.