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 in Germany without taking any tests.
The procedure for exchanging licenses is similar to all federal states (Lander). You'll need a letter explaining the reason you are exchanging your passport and license photographs. German proficiency is highly recommended, as well.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein is a document that grants the right to drive in Germany. It is a highly sought-after document that embodies not just the ability to drive but also the freedom, independence, and responsibility that comes with it. It can be an arduous process but it is a must for anyone who wants to live and work in Germany.
The specific rules and requirements for a Fuhrerschein differ based on the type of license and person applying for it. Candidates must have an active driving license from their country of origin or a different country with reciprocity to Germany. Reciprocity generally means that you do not need to pass the written or practical driving test when you exchange your license.
It is also important to know that a Fuhrerschein is not able to be used by individuals who have been convicted of serious traffic violations or other criminal offences. In these instances your driving license will be taken away and you won't be able to get it back until a specific time period (called Sperrfrist) has passed.
Fuhrerschein holders are also subject to a variety of stipulations that ensure their safety as well as that of other road users. This includes a mandatory minimum insurance coverage, the requirement to wear the seat belt at all times, and the restriction 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're a resident of an EU country or EEA and are moving to Germany it is important to remember that your driving license from your home country may be used in Germany for up to 6 months. After six months, you will require a German driving license to continue driving. If you do not, you could be liable to penalties and fines.
It is best to apply for your Fuhrerschein as soon as possible in order to avoid any issues. You can apply by visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city where you are registered as a resident. You'll need to present proof of your identity, a copy of your current license, as well as other documents to complete the procedure.
How do I apply for a Fuhrerschein?
The process for obtaining a Fuhrerschein differs in each state. While laws are formulated at a national level, individual states interpret them differently. Always check with your local driving licensing authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle typically located in the local office of the citizens') to learn more about what the procedure is.
Before you apply, you'll need to ensure that your original licence is valid and that it was issued by a country that is part of the EU / EEA or a country that has a an agreement of reciprocity with Germany. You must also reside in the country that issued your licence for a minimum of 185 days.
Your documents will be examined by your Fuhrerscheinstelle to determine if you qualify. Then you will take a Sehtest, a simple vision test which verifies that your eyesight is in line with the minimum standards required for safe driving. You can use corrective glasses to pass the test, if required.
After you have passed the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a confirmation that your application was approved. Keep this document, as you will need to present it when picking up your new German licence. You will receive your Abgabensbescheid within 2-3 weeks. This document will contain the confirmation of your license fees, which is approximately EUR35. Once this is paid you can collect your new German license.
It's not an easy task to obtain a Fuhrerschein, and you'll need time. We can make the process as simple as possible for you by providing a step-by-step guide and help you gather the required documents. We can also assist you with the German driving tests if needed. Contact us for more information on our services. We are looking forward to hearing from you.
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you intend to drive in Germany you'll need to change your international driver's licence for a Fuhrerschein. It's more complicated than simply swapping your international license for a German driver's licence, as you'll need to pass the theory and driving tests here (or at least attempt). It's still possible.
The process of upgrading your Fuhrerschein to a full driving license begins with registering in an "Fahrschule" or driving school. They will assist you with your paperwork and guide you through the practical and theoretical driving lessons. You'll also need to secure your vehicle and take extra driving lessons to practice.
When you have finished all of these steps, you'll receive a letter confirming that your application has been successful. This document is called Bescheinigung, and you must keep it until your new license arrives in the post.
You are able to complete the final step of the process by visiting the local office for your driving license after you have received your Bescheinigung. You'll need to bring your Fuhrerschein along with a photo and a form of identification, along with any other documents that are relevant.
You will receive your new driving permit within four weeks after having completed the application. When you receive your new driving license you are legally able to drive in Germany.
If you don't want wait for your licence to arrive in the mail or in the mail, you may pay a bit more to have it made at the Burgeramt. This will save you time however it's not cheap, and the quality of the licence will differ.
You can technically get away by driving with your international license in Germany until January 2022, but then you'll have problems if you're stopped by a police officer. You'll also have to pay more for car insurance. If you plan to stay in Germany for longer than six months, it is recommended to get your German driving license as soon as possible. And the most effective way to do this is to follow this comprehensive step-by-step guide.
How do I exchange my EU or EEA licence in exchange for a German Fuhrerschein?
If your driver's licence was issued by a country within the EU or the EEA which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, you can usually continue to use it for a period of up to six months following your move to Germany. If you plan on staying longer than this or when your driving license has expired, however, you will have to exchange it to the German licence. This is an obligation under the law and also the only way to renew your driving license following the expiry date of its original. If you have certificates attesting your eyesight or health or eyesight, an exception can be made. For more information, call your local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle).
Driving licenses from countries that have reciprocal agreements with Germany for example, Australia, Canada, Japan and the USA can be transferred without the requirement of the passing of a practical or theory test. The process is more complex for drivers from countries that do not have this arrangement, but even in these situations, it is possible to complete the necessary steps without having to undergo a full driving training and testing.
To change eu führerschein kaufen erfahrungen driving license into Fuhrerschein, or a Fuhrerschein, you must submit an application along with all the required documents to the local driving licensing office (also called Fuhrerscheinstelle). The exact procedure for exchanging your license can differ based on the federal state (Land). It is therefore recommended to contact or visit the website of your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to learn more about the requirements specific to in your region.
You will be required to show evidence of your identity, an official driver's license and a medical certificate proving your health and vision. You will also need to pay the appropriate fees. It is recommended to apply as soon as you can and at a minimum before your driving license from another country expires to ensure you receive your Fuhrerschein in time. It is recommended to keep your old driving licence until you receive your new one since it could be useful for identification purposes.