Buying a German Driving License
Purchasing the German driving license requires a lot of time and money. It also requires a lot of nerves. Big mistakes can cost you your license (and the world!) while small mistakes could reduce your years of experience on the road to nil.
The good news is, citizens of certain countries enjoy reciprocity with Germany. They can easily swap their licenses. The process varies from country to country.
1. Get an ID card
First, you must obtain a passport before you think about purchasing a German driving license. There are many methods to accomplish this, and the method you select will depend on your personal situation and your personal goals. The most important steps are to apply for an immigration visa (if necessary) and gather the required documents, and pass any necessary citizenship tests and language tests. It is also possible to consult with an immigration specialist who can help you through the process.
The process of getting your passport is a lengthy process however it's an essential first step to legally living and working in Germany. The cost of a passport is around $90 and you'll need submit a variety of official documents to process your application. You will require, for example, a valid ID (e.g. a driver's licence or passport) as well as evidence of your identity, proof of insurance, and a marriage or birth certificate. In some cases you may be required to present an image of your biometric and undergo an examination for medical reasons.
In certain situations, getting a passport is a lengthy and difficult process, especially in the event that you have a criminal record or a history of violent crimes. In these instances it's best to consult with an experienced immigration lawyer who can provide guidance and support throughout the process.
If you're a citizen of the EU / EEA or a country that has a special reciprocal driving licensing agreement with Germany You may be capable of exchanging your license from another country for one German one relatively easily without taking a theoretical or practical driving exam. This will differ from one country to another and even within the same city.
You'll need an appointment in order to determine if your international license can be exchanged for a German license at the Strassenverkehrsamt in your city. The requirements for this appointment may vary from country to country So, make sure to review this list prior to you make your appointment. deutschen führerschein kaufen may also have to have your driving license translated, which will delay the process.
2. German Visa
It is important to know that if you are not an German (or EU) citizen and you have a driving license from your home country it is only valid for it for six months after becoming an resident of Germany. The procedure for changing a foreign driver's license could differ based on the federal state and local authorities in Germany However, typically, you will have to take both the theoretical and practical driving tests. It is also possible to have your license translated. The car club ADAC offers this service for between 55 and 85 euros.
If you are planning to remain in Germany or apply for a driving permit You'll need a German visa. Make sure you have it prior to your arrival. You can obtain a tourist visa from an German consulate or embassy or you can get a business visa for working in Germany or self-employment visa if are moving to start your own company.
Once you have the visa, it is possible to begin the process of obtaining a driving licence at the local Verkehrssamt (driving licensing office). You'll need to bring your original driver's license, together with proof of insurance and an eye test certificate. You will require a translation of your driving license into German in most cases. We recommend Lingoking as a fast and inexpensive online translator for documents.
It is not allowed to buy a driving license from a different country during a holiday. This is considered "licensing tourist" and could result in serious consequences for our roads. This is why most cities require that you have resided in the country that issued your licence for 185 days or more.
There are some non-traditional methods to avoid this, like buying a fake license however, it's not worth the risk. Additionally, you'll be slapped with a fine if you are stopped by police. If you decide to take this route we suggest you enroll in an Fahrschule that specializes in teaching the foreigners. They can assist you to navigate bureaucracy as well as find a first aid course if needed.
3. German Residence Permit
A German residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) is legally binding document that permits you to live in Germany. The process of getting one requires you to meet certain requirements, like having resided in Germany for three years and having a basic knowledge of the language (level C 1 in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). You must also prove that you can pay for your living expenses without assistance from the public sector. Contributing to the insurance fund that is statutory is required as is being able to provide for yourself and your family members financially.
If you hold a driving license issued by an EU or EEA country, you may be capable of converting it into a German licence. It will depend on the circumstances of your particular situation and the requirements of your city or state. This is something your local Strassenverkehrsamt can assist you with. You will also need an official certificate of good health and vision if you intend to transfer your license.
The regulations governing licenses are different in every state in the federal system, as they are with most bureaucratic issues. If you have any concerns regarding the process of obtaining a license it is recommended to contact your local Strassenverkehrsamt.
Foreign drivers who want to obtain a German license must pass both the practical and written test. If you have a driver's licence issued by their home countries and have no points on their record are usually able to bypass these tests, however you should always check with your Strassenverkehrsamt for the exact requirements for your region.
It is recommended to pick an Fahrschule which has experience with expats in order to ensure that you pass both the theory and road test. They can guide you through the German licensing process for a nominal fee and will provide you with an instructor who will guide you throughout the course. These companies can assist with the German licensing system and provide you with a trainer who will guide you through the course. You can search for accredited Fahrschules in your area on the website of the Bundesministerium fur Bildung and Work.
4. Get a German Driver's License
For expats moving into Germany, obtaining the German driving license is a must. The license will help you navigate the roads more easily and allow you to drive in any kind of vehicle. You'll need to be over the age of eighteen to apply to take the theoretical and practical examination, take the first aid course and pass an eye test. The exact requirements vary depending on what kind of license you're trying to get However, you should be able to pay about 1500 euros for registration fees, tuition, and the exam.
Foreign drivers aren't required to retake the test in order to get the German license. If your driving licence was issued in a country that is part of the EU/EEA or in a state with an agreement of reciprocity with Germany, you can simply exchange it for an German Fuhrerschein (driver's license) without needing to retake any of the tests. Drivers who are driving within the EU/EEA or in a state with a special reciprocal agreement with Germany can exchange their driving license for a German Fuhrerschein (driver's license) without having to take any tests.
If you aren't qualified to transfer or you need a motorcycle licence (C1) it is simpler and quicker to begin over and complete the German driving tests. In these instances you'll still have to pass both theory and practical lessons. The first step is to go to an official Fahrschule (driving school) with experience working with foreign students and can take you through the bureaucracy of getting your driver's license. They will also help you locate a first-aid training course (required) and find an eye doctor to take the eye exam.
A reputable Fahrschule might charge a modest cost, but it's worth the convenience of having someone else take care of the paperwork. It's worth the time and energy to obtain your license. Once you have your license you can travel around Germany at your leisure.