Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If your driver's license was issued in Australia, Canada, USA, South Africa or New Zealand, then you have full reciprocity with Germany and are able to drive here without any test.
The procedure to exchange a license is similar in all states that are federal (Lander). You will need a letter explaining why you are exchanging your licence and passport photographs. German proficiency is highly recommended as well.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein is a type of driving license that grants individuals the legal authority to drive vehicles 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. Obtaining a Fuhrerschein can be an arduous process but it is a must for those who wish to live and work in Germany.
The rules and requirements of the Fuhrerschein differ based on the type and individual. The applicant must possess an active driving license from their country of origin or another nation with reciprocity to Germany. Reciprocity generally means that you do not have to take the written or practical driving test when you exchange your license.
It is also important to remember that a Fuhrerschein can't be used by those who have been convicted of serious traffic violations or criminal offenses. In these instances, your driving license will be taken away and you won't be able return it until a certain time frame (called Sperrfrist) has passed.
To ensure that all drivers keep their safety and the safety of others on the road in mind, there are also various requirements for Fuhrerschein holders. This includes a mandatory minimum insurance coverage, a requirement to wear a seat belt at all times, and the prohibition of using electronic devices while driving. It is also essential for Fuhrerschein holders, to maintain an acceptable standard of driving and never drink and drive.
If you're a citizen of an EU or EEA country and are moving to Germany, it is important to be aware that your driving permit from your home country will be valid in Germany for a period of up to six months. After six months, you'll have to get an German driving license to continue driving. If you don't, you could be penalized with fines and other consequences.
It is best to apply for your Fuhrerschein right away in order to avoid any problems. This can be done by visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in the city in which you are registered as a resident. To complete the process, you will be required to submit a photocopy of your current license and evidence of identity.
How do I apply to receive a Fuhrerschein?
The process of obtaining a Fuhrerschein differs in each state. While laws are formulated at a national level, individual states interpret them differently. You should always check with your local driving licensing authority (Fuhrerscheinstelle which is usually located within the local office of the citizens') to find out how things work.
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 with a special reciprocal agreement with Germany. You will also need to reside in the country that issued your licence for at least 185 consecutive days.
When you visit your Fuhrerscheinstelle they will determine if you are eligible to apply by scrutinizing your documents. You will then be required to take the Sehtest. This is a simple test of vision that verifies your eyesight is in line with the minimum requirements for a safe driver. If you are required, you can opt for corrective lenses to pass the test.
After passing the Sehtest and passed the Sehtest, you will be issued a Bescheinigung by the Fuhrerscheinstelle that your application has been accepted. Keep this document, because you will need to show it when you get your new German licence. You will receive your Abgabensbescheid within 2 to 3 weeks. This document contains a confirmation of the license fee of approximately EUR35. After this fee is paid you can collect your new German license.
It's not an easy process to obtain a Fuhrerschein and you'll need time. However, we can help to make it as easy as possible by providing the steps-by-step instructions and assisting you in obtaining the necessary documentation. We can also help with the German driving test if needed. Please contact us for more information about our services. We would love to hear 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 one called a Fuhrerschein. It's a bit more difficult than just swapping your existing international driver's license to one German one, as you'll need to pass the theory and driving test here (or at the very least, attempt). However, kaufen führerschein is feasible.
The process of upgrading your Fuhrerschein to a full driving license starts by enrolling in an "Fahrschule" or driving school. They will guide you through your theoretical and practical lessons and help you with the paperwork. You'll also need to insure your vehicle, and it's a good idea to take a few extra driving lessons to get used to.
Once you have completed all these steps, you'll be sent a letter to confirm that your application was successful. The document is referred to as Bescheinigung and you'll need to keep it until your new license is received in the mail.
Once you have your Bescheinigung, you will need to visit your local driving licensing office to complete the last stage of the procedure. You'll also need to provide your Fuhrerschein and any other documents that are required.
After you've submitted your application and received your application, it takes about four weeks to get your new driving licence in the mail. When you receive your new driving licence you are able to legally drive in Germany.
You can pay a fee to have your licence produced at the Burgeramt if you don't wish to wait. This will save you time however it's not cheap, and the quality of the license will differ.
You are able to drive in Germany with your international license until January 2022. However, you will be in trouble if arrested by the police. Plus, you'll probably have to pay a lot more for car insurance. If you're planning on staying in Germany for more than 6 months, you should get your German driving license as soon as you can. And the most effective way to do this is to follow this thorough step-by-step instruction.
How do I convert my driving licence from the EU/EEA to an German Fuhrerschein?
If your driver's licence was issued by a nation in the EU or the EEA which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway it is possible to use it for a period of up to six months after you move to Germany. If you plan to stay longer or if your license has expired, you'll have to exchange it for a German license. This is a legal requirement and also the only way you can renew your license beyond the expiry date of your original license. If you have a certificate attesting to your health or vision, an exception may be made. Contact your local driving licensing office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) to find out more.
Driving licences issued by countries that have reciprocal agreements, such as Australia and Canada or the USA, may be transferred to Germany without the need for a theory test or practical test. The process is more difficult for drivers from countries which do not have this arrangement, however even in these instances, it is possible to pass the necessary steps without having to undergo a full driving training and testing.
To change your foreign driving license into Fuhrerschein, or a Fuhrerschein one, you must complete an application and submit all the required documents to the local driving licensing office (also known as Fuhrerscheinstelle). The process of converting licenses may differ depending on the federal state. To find out about the requirements in your area it is recommended to call or visit your local Fuhrerscheinstelle.
You'll need to submit proof of your identity as well as valid driver's license as well as a certificate proving your health and vision. You'll also have to pay the appropriate fees. It is best to apply as soon as possible and preferably before your driving license from another country expires to ensure that you get your Fuhrerschein on time. It is recommended to keep your old driving licence until you receive your new licence, as it can be useful to prove your identity.