How to Buy a Driving License in Germany
You'll require a driving license if you intend to drive in Germany. However, the process can be expensive and lengthy. Especially for American citizens, this could be a major obstacle to navigating the Autobahn.
Fortunately, there are ways around this. The first step is contact a Fahrschule that has a program for foreign students.
Requirements
If you decide to move to Germany, it is important to be aware that you must exchange your foreign driving license to the German Fuhrerschein (or "driver's license"). The rules are different depending on whether or not you are a resident of an EU/EEA member country or a country that has an agreement to reciprocate. If you are not a EU/EEA citizen, you might need to pass both a theoretical and a practical test.
To get your Fuhrerschein, you must visit the local Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle. You will need to bring a valid passport, identification card or driving license from your country of origin along with a recent passport photo. You'll also need to pay a fee which differs from authority to authority. In certain instances you may be required to provide a translation of your licence and other documents, though it is not required in all cases. If you have any questions regarding the requirements, you can contact either the Strassenverkehrsamt oder the Fuhrerscheinstelle.
The next step is to pass the theory test. The theory test will be conducted by a driving school which is approved. The written theory test takes about 30 minutes. The test covers topics such as road signs, traffic rules and road rules. After passing the theory test then the practical test is available. The practical test is comprised of several exercises, such as driving on city streets and motorways.
After passing the practical exam after passing the practical test, you are legally allowed to drive on German roads. You will still have to purchase mandatory car insurance, and your car must pass an annual safety test.
You must also register your car and buy a German license plates. If you are planning to stay in Germany for more than a year, your driving license from home will remain valid until the end of your first six-month period of residence. If you intend to rent or buy a vehicle in the future, you'll require an German licence. This government website provides more details. Alternatively, you can try using carpooling websites to make long journeys.
The process
You may be required to purchase a German driving license if you are not an EU citizen. This isn't nearly as difficult as you may think. The procedure can differ somewhat based on your home country and the agreement between Germany and it, but most of the time you can swap your foreign license to one German one without taking any additional exams.
The first step is to make an appointment at your local Fuhrerscheinstelle or driving license office. You'll be required to bring your current licence, a recent passport photo, and proof of identity. Your Fuhrerscheinstelle will then examine your documents and determine if you're eligible to transfer your licence. This process usually takes between two and four weeks.
After you've submitted your application, you'll be required to pass a practical and theory test. The Fuhrerscheinstelle can then print out your new license when you successfully pass both tests. You'll be informed when it's ready for pick-up. Once you've got your license, make sure to buy mandatory car insurance, which you can do through a number of German companies such as DA Direkt.
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 have to pass a written test before obtaining an driving license.
The method by the way the process is carried out is different from one federal state (Land) to another. It is best to inquire with your local Fuhrerscheinstelle or driving license office to learn what procedures are in place in your particular area. Failure to do this could cost you a great deal of money and time. You can also buy a fake German license, but it has its own set of problems. Besides, it's illegal. If you're stopped by the cops and they are suspicious, they will be able to tell that it's not real. It's not worth the risk. Use the official process unless you are in an urgent situation. It's more beneficial long-term for everyone.
Fees
The cost of getting the German driving license is expensive. In addition to the initial application fee, you will also have to pay for the tuition at the Fahrschule and for any additional driving lessons that you may require. You'll also have to purchase the mandatory insurance for your car. The cost of this will vary based on the type of vehicle you plan to drive, but the majority are quite affordable. You should also remember that you will have to pass both the theoretical and practical test, so be prepared for these costs too.
If führerschein kaufen ohne prüfung are a resident of a country which is not part of the EU, then it may be possible to exchange your old license for an German driving license. However, the process is complicated and costly and requires proof of your legal residency in the country. You'll also have to pass an eye and medical test. In some cases you may be required to prove that your previous driver's license was valid at the time of expiration in your home country.
Another option is to enroll in an area Fahrschule for classes to prepare you for the driving tests. These courses will provide you with an enumeration of driving lessons that will enable you to pass the written and road tests. Additionally, you will be required to pass a first-aid course.
After passing both the written and driving tests, you'll be issued a temporary license. This is valid for three month or until you are issued an EU driver's license (whichever comes first). You must carry this license with you at all times while you drive in Germany.
If you fail your driving test you may retake the test within some days. It is crucial to allow yourself enough time to prepare for the test. Before you take the test, it is advisable to practice with a teacher and review the rules of the road in Germany. There are many resources to help you prepare for your test such as official apps, online sites and driving schools.
Documents needed
If you are an expat living in Germany you must be aware of the procedure and fees involved in buying an driving license. You will have to register your vehicle, purchase insurance and pass the driving test. It's important to know the various types of driving licenses available in Germany. You may want to consider taking a driving course at a Fahrschule prior to taking your driving test. The courses are expensive however they are essential to ensure a safe and smooth transition to German roads.
You can purchase a German driving permit in different ways, based on whether or not you are an EU national. Non-EU citizens can use their foreign drivers' license for up to six months after relocating to Germany, however it is mandatory to exchange or obtain the German driving license to continue to drive. The driver's license must be valid in all member states of the European Union.
The first step in obtaining a driving license is to visit the local Driving License Office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). You will need your foreign driving license, passport photo, and an eye-sight certificate. You should make an appointment at least four weeks prior to the expiration date of your current license. This will save you from having to retake the driver's test or pay an annual renewal fee.
Once you have all the required documents, you can bring them to the Fuhrerscheinstelle for processing. The Fuhrerscheinstelle will confirm the information, and then forward it to the government. It usually takes between two and six weeks for the transfer to be approved by the government. The Fuhrerscheinstelle will give you a slip that allows you to drive for a period of time.
If your foreign license is stolen or lost, you will need to provide the authorities with a statement explaining what happened and stating that you will return it if found. It is also necessary to report it to the police.
The International Driving Permit (IDP) is an international translation of your national driving licence. It is valid in countries that recognize the IDP for up to one year. You can get an IDP in Germany from Fahrschule, Fahrschule or car club between 55 and 85 euros.