Then You've Found Your Buy A German Driving License ... Now What?
How to Buy a German Driving License If you want to leave public transport to take the Autobahn yourself, first, you need an active driving license. If your country of residence is listed in Germany's “Annex 11” You can transfer your driving license without much effort. This is not true in all states. Requirements There are a variety of requirements you must satisfy in order to buy an German driving license. First, you must pass a test written. The test will include questions regarding traffic laws as well as road signs and other related issues. After passing the test, you'll be issued your driver's license. If you fail, you can take the test as often as you like. You'll have to wait two weeks before you can take the next test. You must also possess a valid residence permit as well as the required number of driving lessons (Pflichtstudent). Additionally, you must register your vehicle and pay the car tax. The requirements for these documents differ between federal states (Land). It is recommended to contact your local Fuhrerscheinstelle, or driving licensing office, for more information. There are various requirements for people who aren't from the EU. People from countries which have a specific reciprocal arrangement with Germany can exchange their foreign license for a German one quite quickly. However, citizens of other countries will have to pass a practical or theoretical test to obtain their driving license. In addition to these requirements, you will also require a valid passport. You may be required to provide a copy of your birth certificate or marriage certificate as well as proof of address. Certain Fuhrerscheinstelle offices require you to surrender your driver's license from the previous one in order to complete the process. If this is the case, you can use a service like Lingoking to get a certified translation of your driving license that will be accepted by all Fuhrerscheinstelle. Purchasing a driving license in Germany is a daunting procedure however it doesn't have to be. You can find a variety of resources that can help you with the process. These include driving schools as well as translation services. The most important thing is to understand the requirements of each class, and then take an exam that is appropriate for the type of vehicle you are driving. Once you've passed your test, you are able to drive legally and safely in Germany. Be sure to have good eyesight and be prepared for long-distance driving. Fees If you have a valid driving license from an EU country or a US state that has reciprocity with Germany and Germany, you can exchange it to obtain an German driving licence without having to take the practical or theory test. You will also need to pass the first aid course and undergo an eye examination. You may have to pay additional fees based on the circumstance. It is normal to have to pay extra fees if your German proficiency is low or if you have additional lessons required at an Fahrschule. You'll also need to purchase a first aid kit and insurance which could be costly. The cost of obtaining a German driving license is dependent on where you're from and the type of vehicle you're driving. In Germany for instance it's difficult to obtain a motorcycle license due to the limited number motorcycles on the roads. Furthermore, obtaining the process of getting a motorcycle licence takes lots of practice and a separate theoretical and practical test. The process for obtaining the German driving license could be a long and bureaucratic one, and also expensive. The process could take up to six months if not an EU citizen. When you arrive in Germany you'll have to exchange your foreign license at a local driving license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) before it expires. Afterwards, you'll need to take the oral and practical tests and take both the theory and written examinations. It is a good idea to find an Fahrschule with experience working with expats and who is familiar with German driving license regulations. For a small fee they will assist you through the paperwork and guide you through your driving test. In addition they will provide you with all the necessary documents and a copy of your passport to submit the application. They will also arrange your first-aid training and give you the required equipment for the practical test including a helmet and gloves. The cost of a German driving license is about 200 euros, making it a more affordable option for those with existing licenses from their home countries. The fee is payable to the Fuhrerscheinstelle, which is usually located in the same building as your municipal office. You will be informed when your new German driving license is ready to be picked up. Timeframe In determining the amount of time it takes to get the German driving license, there are a variety of factors to be taken into consideration. First you must pass your theory and practical tests. These tests are usually conducted every week at local offices (Buergeramt). In addition, you must pass an eye test and attend the full day Erste Hilfe Kurse, which is required for all drivers. Then, you must wait for your application to be processed. This could take anywhere from about 2-4 weeks. If you are an EU national or not will influence the process of obtaining your German license. If you're a resident of the EU and have a license from your country is usually valid in Germany until it expires. However, if you have a license for motorbikes or large goods vehicles or if it's in another non-EU language, you will need to convert it to one that is a German one. In this scenario, it is likely that you'll need to complete an additional driving course and take additional practical tests. You will also need to pass a written examination. It is recommended that you complete the theory and practice course at the local driving school. You can learn about driving schools in your region by asking the local Strassenverkehrsamt (transport authority) or searching on the internet. If you're an American citizen, the process of acquiring a German license can be very long and time-consuming. You will be required to surrender your U.S. driver's license in the majority of German offices, so be sure that it's a valid version. Online services such as Lingoking make it easy to get a translation that is certified. The process to obtain the German driving license may vary based on the federal state you live in (Lander). For more specific information you need to contact your local Staatsanwaltschaft. In general the process shouldn't take more than six months. If you are unsure about the process, it's a good idea to contact your Landesanwaltschaft prior to moving to Germany to learn what the requirements are. This will help you plan your move in advance and avoid any surprises or delays later on. Reciprocity This isn't a definitive answer as it depends on where your license was issued and the length of time you plan to reside in Germany. It's important to note that Germans are not a fan of driving with two different licenses. You are able to drive on your American driving license for six months, but after that you'll need to exchange it to one that is a German license. The state where you got your license will determine whether you must pass an exam for driving or an exam written. Certain states, like Michigan have full reciprocity, whereas others (like New York) do not. It's best to get in touch with your local Fuhrerscheinstelle and schedule an appointment to discuss the process of exchanging your license. You can then begin the process and make sure you have all of the necessary documents. It will also give you a better sense of what to expect. It will cost around 200 euros to convert an US license to a German one. deutschen registrierten führerschein kaufen of expats comes from the 27 US states that enjoy full reciprocity with Germany and the Canadian provinces and territories. In these cases you'll need to go to the Fuhrerscheinstelle with your current US license along with other documents and be able to apply for the German driver's license without taking any tests. For countries which do not have a reciprocity arrangement with Germany this is much more complicated. For those coming from the 13 states which don't have reciprocity, you'll need to pass both the written and practical (driving) examinations. It'll take about a week and cost about EUR500. Some Americans are frustrated by this and expensive process. However, it's an essential requirement for those who plan to reside in Germany long-term and it is essential to think ahead. A car is essential if you want to explore Europe's beauty and natural surroundings or make a trip to IKEA.