How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
You'll need a driver's license if you want to drive in Germany. The process can be expensive and time-consuming. Particularly for American citizens, this can be a major obstacle for getting around on the Autobahn.
There are ways around this. The first step is to contact an Fahrschule that is able to work with foreign students.
Requirements
It is important to note that if you plan to move to Germany you will have to exchange your driving license to one of the German Fuhrerschein. The exact rules differ based on whether you are a citizen of an EU/EEA member country or a country that has a special reciprocal agreement. If you are not an EU/EEA citizen you might be required to sit for a theoretical and a practical test.
To get your Fuhrerschein, you must visit the local Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need an original passport, an identity card or driving license from your country of origin as well as a recent passport photograph. You will be required to pay a fee that differs from one authority to the next. In some cases you may be required to provide an English translation of your driving licence as well as other documents. This is not always the case. If you're unsure about the requirements, you can contact the Strassenverkehrsamt or the Fuhrerscheinstelle directly to learn more.
The next step is to take the theory test. The theory test will be administered by a driving academy that is accredited. The written theory test takes approximately 30 minutes. The test covers topics like road signs, traffic rules and road rules. After passing the theory test then the practical test is available. The practical test consists of a variety of exercises, such as driving on city streets as well as motorways.
After passing the practical test and passing the practical test, you'll be eligible to legally drive on roads in Germany. However, you will still have to purchase mandatory car insurance and undergo a safety inspection every year.
You must also register your vehicle and purchase a German license plate. If you intend to stay in Germany for more than one year, your driving license from home will remain valid until the end your first six-month residency. If you plan on renting cars or purchase your own, you must get a German driving license within this time. This government website has more details. Alternatively, you can try using carpooling websites to travel long distances.
The process
You might need to purchase an German driving license if you're not an EU citizen. It's not as difficult as you might think. The procedure can differ a bit depending on your home country and Germany's agreement with it, but most times, you can exchange your license from another country to one that is a German one without having to pass any additional tests.
To begin, you must set up an appointment with your local Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll be required to bring your current license, a current passport photo, as well as proof of identity. Your Fuhrerscheinstelle will then review your documents to determine if you're qualified to transfer your license. This process typically takes about two to four weeks.
After you have submitted the required paperwork, you'll be required to pass both the theory and the practical test. If you pass both, the Fuhrerscheinstelle will then print your new driver's licence for you. You'll be notified when it's ready for pick-up. You can purchase mandatory car insurance through DA Direkt or other German companies after you have obtained your license.
Certain countries, such as the USA have reciprocal agreements with Germany, and do not require additional documents or tests. Others, like Australia aren't and need to take a written test before obtaining an driving license.
The method by which the process is conducted will differ from one federal state (Land) to another. It is recommended to check with your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to see how things work in the region you live in. Failing to do so could cost you a lot of money, not to mention time. You can also buy counterfeit German license, but it has its own set of problems. Besides, it's illegal. If you are stopped by the cops and they find out that it's not real. It's not worth the risk. So unless you're in the middle, stick to the official procedure. It's better for everyone in the long in the long run.
Fees
The cost to obtain an German driving license is high. Apart from the initial application cost you will also need to pay for your tuition at the Fahrschule and any additional driving lessons you may require. Additionally, you'll be required to purchase compulsory car insurance. The cost will differ based on the type of car you wish to drive, however the majority of them are reasonable. Be prepared to pay for both the theoretical test as well as the practical test.
If you're a citizen of a nation outside the EU It may be possible to exchange your license for one that is a German one. This procedure is costly and time-consuming, and you will need to provide proof of your legal residence in the country. You'll also have to pass an eye and medical examination. In some cases you may need to prove your previous license was valid before it expired in your home country.
You can also enroll in a local Fahrschule to prepare for your driving test. These classes will give you a minimum number of driving lessons that will enable you to pass the road and written tests. Additionally, you will be required to pass an initial-aid course.
After passing the written and road tests, you will be given an interim driving license that is valid for three months or until you are issued your EU driver's license (whichever comes later). You must keep this license with you at all times when you are driving in Germany.
If you fail your driving test you can retake the test within a few days. It is important to give yourself enough time to prepare for the test. Before you take the test, it's a good idea to practice with a teacher and review the rules of the road in Germany. There are many resources available to aid you in your preparation, such as official apps and websites, as well as driving schools.
Documents needed
If you're an expat living in Germany you must be aware of the procedure and fees involved in buying an driving license. You'll have to register your vehicle, purchase insurance, and pass a driver's test. It's also important to understand the various types of driving licenses you can get in Germany. You should consider taking the Fahrschule driving course before you take your test. These courses are costly, but essential for a safe and smooth transition to the German roads.
You can buy a German driving permit in various ways, based on whether or not you're an EU citizen. Non-EU citizens can utilize their drivers' licenses from abroad for up to six months after moving to Germany, however it is necessary to obtain or exchange the German driving license to continue to drive. In deutscher führerschein kaufen has to be valid in all European Union member states.
The first step in obtaining a driving license is to visit the local Driving License Office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). You'll need your foreign driving license, a passport photo and an eye-sight test certificate. It's a good idea to schedule an appointment four weeks before your existing license expires. This lets you avoid having to retake the driver's test or pay an annual renewal fee.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can bring them in to the Fuhrerscheinstelle. The Fuhrerscheinstelle will confirm the information and forward it to the government. It typically takes two to six weeks for the government to approve the transfer. The Fuhrerscheinstelle will issue you a certificate allowing you to drive while waiting.
If your foreign driver's license is stolen or lost, you must provide the authorities a statement describing the situation and stating that you will return it if found. It is also necessary to notify the police.
An international driving permit (IDP) is the translation of your national license that is valid for up to a year in countries that recognize it. You can buy an IDP in Germany at Fahrschule, Fahrschule, or automobile club for between 55 and 85 euros.