Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If your driver's license was issued in Australia, Canada, USA, South Africa or New Zealand You have full reciprocity with Germany and are able to drive here without any test.
The process for exchanging licenses is the same in all federal states (Lander). You must submit a letter explaining the reason for exchanging your passport and licence. German is also highly recommended.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein is a type of driving license that grants individuals the legal right to operate vehicles in Germany. It is a highly regarded document that symbolizes not only the ability to drive but also the freedom, independence and responsibility that comes with it. It's not an easy process to obtain an Fuhrerschein, however it's essential for anyone who wants to work and live in Germany.
The rules and requirements for a Fuhrerschein vary based on the type of applicant and the individual. Generally speaking, applicants must be over the age of 18 and possess a valid driver's license from their country of origin or another that has reciprocity with Germany. Reciprocity typically means that you do not require an exam for driving proficiency or a written test when you exchange your license.
A Fuhrerschein is not valid for individuals who have committed serious traffic or criminal offenses. In these cases, the driving license will be taken away and you will not be able to get it back until a specific period of time has elapsed (called the Sperrfrist).
To ensure that all drivers keep their safety and that of others on the road in mind, there are various requirements for Fuhrerschein holders. These include a mandatory minimum insurance coverage, the requirement to wear the seat belt at all times, and the prohibition of using electronic devices while driving. Fuhrerschein holders must also maintain an excellent standard of driving and not drink and operate 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 license from your home country can be used in Germany for up to six months. After six months, you'll need to obtain an German driving license to continue driving. You could be fined and face other penalties if not.
It is recommended to apply for your Fuhrerschein right away to avoid any issues. You can apply for a Fuhrerschein by visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt in the city where you reside. You'll need to present proof of your identity, a photocopy of your current license, and other documentation to complete the process.
How do I apply to receive a Fuhrerschein?
The process for obtaining a Fuhrerschein differs in each federal state. While laws are formulated at an international level, different states interpret them in a different way. It is recommended to always consult your local driving licensing authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle typically located in your local citizens' office) to see how things work.
Before you apply, you will have to confirm that your original licence is valid and it was issued by a country that is part of the EU / EEA or a country with an exclusive reciprocal agreement with Germany. You must also have lived in the same country that issued your licence for at least the equivalent of 185 consecutive days.
Your documents will be examined by your Fuhrerscheinstelle to determine if you qualify. Then you will take an Sehtest which is a basic test that checks if your eyesight is in line with the minimum requirements for safe driving. You can use corrective glasses to pass the test if needed.
After you have passed the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a confirmation that your application has been accepted. This document is vital since you'll require it to pick up your new German license. You will receive your Abgabensbescheid within 2-3 weeks. This document will contain the confirmation of your license fees that is around EUR35. Once you have paid your fee, you can pick-up your new German license.
Obtaining a Fuhrerschein is not an easy process, and it will most likely take you some time to complete. However, we can to make it as simple as possible by providing a step-by-step guide and assisting you in gathering the required documentation. Additionally, we can help with the German driving test if you need it. 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 are planning to drive in Germany you'll need to exchange your international driver's license to the German Fuhrerschein. It's more complicated than simply swapping your international driver's license for the German driver's licence, as you'll have to pass both the theory and driving tests here (or at a minimum, attempt). It is, however, possible.
Enrolling in führerschein kaufen legal driving class or "Fahrschule" is the first step in changing your Fuhrerschein to a full driving license. They will assist you with your paperwork and guide through the practical and theoretical driving lessons. You'll also need to insure your vehicle and take extra driving lessons to get used to.
After you've completed each step You'll receive a confirmation letter confirming that your application has been successful. The document is known as Bescheinigung and you need to keep it until your new license is delivered to you.
You can complete the final step in the process by visiting your local driving license office after you have received your Bescheinigung. You'll need to show your Fuhrerschein along with a photo and a form of identification as well as any other documents that are relevant.
Once you've completed your application, it will take around four weeks to receive your new driving licence in the mail. Once you've received it you'll be able to legally drive in Germany!
If you don't want to wait for your license to be delivered in the mail You can pay a little extra to have it printed at the Burgeramt. It will save you time however the quality of the license will be different.
You're technically allowed to drive with driving on your international license in Germany until January 2022, but then you'll have problems if you're stopped by a cop. You'll also need to pay more for car insurance. If you're planning to stay in Germany for more than six months, it is recommended to obtain your German driving license as soon as you can. And the most effective way to do this is by following this comprehensive step-by-step instruction.
How do I change my driving license from the EU/EEA to a German Fuhrerschein?
If your driving licence was issued by a nation within the EU or the EEA, which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway it is possible to use it for up to six months after you move to Germany. If you plan on staying longer than this, or the license is due to expire you'll need to exchange it for one that is a German licence. This is a legal requirement as well as the only method to renew your license following the expiry date of its original. There are exceptions in the event that you have proof attesting to your good eyesight and health. Contact your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) to learn more.
Driving licences issued by countries which have reciprocal agreements, like Australia and Canada or the USA can be transferred to Germany without a theory test or a practical test. The process is more complicated for drivers from countries which do not have this arrangement, but even in these cases it is possible to pass the necessary steps without undergoing the entire driving instruction and testing procedure.
The first step in changing your foreign driver's licence to a Fuhrerschein is to submit an application form and the necessary documents to your local driving licence office or the Fuhrerscheinstelle. The process for converting licenses can differ from state to federal state. To learn more about the requirements for your region, it is best to call or visit your local Fuhrerscheinstelle.
You must provide evidence of your identity, a photo and a valid driving licence along with a completed certificate attesting to your good eyesight and health. You'll also need to pay the applicable fees. It is advisable to apply for the transfer as soon as you can and at the very least before your foreign driving licence expires to ensure that you receive your Fuhrerschein prior to that date. It is recommended to also keep your old licence until you receive your new one, as it can be useful to prove your identity.