20 Up-And-Comers To Watch In The Buy A German Driving License Industry
How to Buy a German Driving License
A German driving license is an important and valuable asset, not only because of its rigorous standards but it also because it is recognized throughout Europe. Expats often want to change their driving license from the EU/EEA to one with a German license when it expires.
What are the requirements?
You must meet a number of requirements before you can buy a German license. This includes the type of vehicle you want to drive and your age. You must be 18 years old in order to obtain an official driver's license of class B which is required for the majority of passenger vehicles and small commercial vehicles. You can also apply for a class C or E license if you plan to drive heavy vehicles, such as buses and trucks or a class T license for agricultural or forestry tractor. In certain instances you might have to pass a written or oral test before being able to take a practical exam.
Certain countries allow their citizens to exchange their licenses for a German one, without having to pass an exam. This includes citizens of countries within the European Union or the European Economic Area, as and those from Andorra, Monaco, Iceland, Hong Kong, San Marino, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Switzerland, France and the U.S.A (certain states), and Singapore.
You'll have to pass both a written test and a practical test if not from one of these countries. In some instances, you may also need to pass a medical examination and vision test.
When you're ready to apply, you should go to your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). The procedure for applying for a driving license is different however, generally, you'll need to bring an official letter from your employer or the city in which you've moved to Germany and a proof of insurance, as well as your foreign license. You may also have to show a photo.
The cost of the driving test is different depending on where you live in Germany, but it is typically less than EUR100. Once you've passed both the practical and written tests and passed the written test, your German driving license should be available to pick up within several weeks.
It is important to know the requirements for a German license because many expats will need to have one to legally drive in the country. Web Site can be difficult to use public transportation in rural areas and in bad weather. Having a car can simplify the process.
How do I get a German driving license?
If you have a driving license from another country in the European Union (EU) or from a country recognized by Germany as having reciprocity in full or partial form, you can convert your license to one that is a German one without taking any tests. You can do this by booking an appointment at your local driver's license authority, also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. You'll need your original licence along with a proof of identity as well as a passport photo. In most cases, you will be able to get your German driving licence within four weeks.
If your licence was issued in the UK, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland or Andorra you are able to use it for up to six months before obtaining an German license. To obtain a German license, you will need to register your residence address and pass the German language test that can be taken through a private school or at the local language center.
It could take a while to get an German license however, it's essential to be able to safely drive on the roads. It also makes renting a car a lot easier since some rental companies require you to have an German driving license. Driving in Germany is a serious matter and should be treated with care.
It is recommended that you enroll in a driving school and get some practice driving, as it will aid you in feeling more comfortable during your test. You can find driving schools through Farschule-123.com, which allows you to search by area and type of vehicle. Some driving schools also offer classes in various languages.
Renewing your German driving license is easy. Make an appointment at the local office for driving license renewal at minimum four weeks before the date your license expires. You will be required to bring your driver's license and a passport photograph taken recently, and pay a modest amount of 24 euros. Then your new driving license will be available for you to pick up in four weeks.
Can I keep my American license?
It is possible to get a German driver's licence without taking the practical or theory test due to the reciprocity arrangement. However, the majority of foreigners would be better off starting at the beginning. This requires attending a driving school and paying a substantial amount of money.
Driving schools are located across the country and offer a range of courses, ranging from a basic car course to a truck, bus or passenger transport license. They will also be able to provide you with theory classes in your own language. Some schools charge less than others. Checking online and asking around reviews is the best way to find the most suitable driving school.
The process of converting an American driving license to one that is a German one can take anywhere from two to six months, based on the availability of the driving school and whether or not you have a reciprocity agreement. If you don't have one, you must translate your driver's license in German and this can be accomplished by a sworn translator or a recognised automobile organization. Alternatively, you can submit an extract of the registry from the KBA in the country of origin as proof of residence.
You will need to take a practical test once you have all the necessary documents. During this, the driving instructor will be in the front seat and you will drive the car while being asked questions. You will get your driving license within a few days after you pass.
If you fail the test in the exam, you'll need to repeat the entire process with a different instructor, and pay the appropriate fee. Additionally, you will have to prove you completed a medical exam and, if necessary present a certificate of good eye sight.
You can also obtain a German driving license after a period of six months by submitting an application to your local driving licence authority (Fahrerlaubnisbehorde). You'll need an original driver's license translated and a medical certificate in this instance. You will also be required to submit a certified translation and photocard of your passport.
Can I exchange my foreign driving license to get a German license?
If you are moving from a state or country with a reciprocity agreement with Germany the process of transferring your license to a German one is relatively easy. This agreement is in force with 27 states that include New York, California and other states. If you hold an official driving license from one of these states, then you don't have to pass an examination in the form of a written or driving test in Germany. You will be able to get your complete German license. You must present your current driver's licence, evidence of identity (usually a passport or a national ID card) and a recent photo. The requirements for each state (Lander) vary therefore it is advisable to check your local authority for your driving license (Fuhrerscheinstelle), before booking an appointment.
You will only need to exchange your license within the first six months of your residency. If you fail to do this, it will be considered a violation of your residency permit and authorities could decide to take action against you. If you plan to utilize car sharing services that require the use of a European license or a German license it is more important to begin the process of getting your German license.
Anyone who is moving to Germany from outside the EU/EEA may continue to use their driver's license for up to one year after they have registered their address. They must, however, be able to have it translated by a certified translation, a globally recognized automotive organisation or a certified interpreter. This is an essential step, since many insurance companies will not insure drivers who are not from the EU/EEA region without a translation.
You will need to visit the road traffic department (Strassenverkehrsamt) or driving licensing office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) in your city and make an appointment for a "Umstellung eines Fuhrersscheines (Non-EU/Drittstaaten)". You can make this appointment online, by phone or in the Burgerhaushalt offices. You will need your current license and the German translation of the license, your driving history from the country of origin, and evidence of identity. Additionally, you will be required to pay a fee of approximately EUR35 which you can either pay cash or via the transfer of funds from a bank. You will receive a confirmation via mail after you have submitted all the required documents.