Buying a German Driving License
Purchasing a German driving license takes lots of time and money. It also requires a lot of nerves. Major mistakes will cost you your license (and a bomb) while small mistakes could make your experience on the road to nil.
The good news is, citizens of certain countries have reciprocity with Germany. registrierten führerschein kaufen can easily exchange their licenses. The procedure varies from country to country.
1. Get an identity card
First, you must obtain a passport before you look into purchasing a German driving license. There are a variety of methods to accomplish this and the method you select will depend on your specific situation and your personal goals. However, the most basic steps are to apply for the visa (if necessary), gather the necessary documents, and pass any necessary citizenship tests and language tests. You may also want to speak with an expert in immigration who can assist you navigate the process.
It can be a lengthy process however it's an essential first step towards legally living and working in Germany. A passport costs around EUR90 and you'll need submit a variety of official documents to process your application. You will need, for example, a valid ID (e.g. driver's license or passport) as well as proof of your identity and proof of insurance and a marriage or birth certificate. In certain situations you may have to undergo a medical exam and submit a biometric passport photograph.
In certain situations the passport process can be complicated and lengthy, especially for those with a criminal history or a history of violent crime. In these cases it is a great idea to consult with an experienced immigration lawyer who will provide assistance and guidance throughout the entire process.
You may be able, when you are a part of the EU/EEA or a country which has a reciprocal driver license agreement with Germany to exchange your driving license from another country for a German driving licence without the need to pass an exam in theory or a practical driving test. This will differ between countries and even within one city.
To find out if you can exchange your foreign license for a German one, you'll need to make an appointment with the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in your city. The requirements for this appointment can vary from country to country so make sure you go through this list prior to when you make your appointment. You may also need to have your driving license translated, which can make this process more time-consuming.
2. Get a German Visa
If you aren't a German citizen (or EU citizen) and have a driving license from your home country It is important to be aware that it can only be used for a period of up to six months after you become a resident of Germany. The process for exchanging an international driving license could vary depending on the federal state or local authorities in Germany. However it is generally required to pass both the theoretical and practical driving test. In addition, you may need to have your licence translated by the car club ADAC provides this service for between 55 and 85 euros.
If you are planning to stay in Germany or apply for a driving permit you'll require an German visa. Be sure to have one before you arrive. You can obtain a tourist visa at the German consulate or an embassy, or a business visa to work in Germany.
Once you have your visa, you can apply for a driving license at your local Verkehrssamt. You'll require your original driving license and proof of insurance and an eye test certificate. You will require a translation of your driving license into German in the majority of cases. We recommend Lingoking as a quick and inexpensive online translator for documents.
It is not allowed to purchase a driver's license from another country while on holiday. This is referred to as "licensing tourist" and could result in serious consequences for our roads. This is why most cities require you to have lived in the country that issued your licence for 185 days or more.
There are a few non-traditional methods to avoid this for instance, buying a fake license, but it isn't really worth the risk. You'll also be fined if are stopped by the police. If you decide to take this route we recommend that you go through a Fahrschule that specializes in teaching foreigners - they can help you navigate the bureaucracy and find a first-aid course, if required.
3. Apply for a German Residence Permit
The German residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel), is a legal document that permits you to reside in Germany. You must meet certain requirements to obtain one, which includes having lived in Germany for at least three years and possessing a basic knowledge of the German language (level 1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). You must be able to afford your expenses without assistance from the government. Contributing to the statutory insurance fund is required as is being able to support your family and friends financially.
If you have a driving licence issued by an EU or EEA country, you might be capable of converting it into an German licence. It will depend on the specifics of your particular situation and the requirements of your city or state. This is something your local Strassenverkehrsamt can assist you with. If you're thinking of exchanging your license for a new one, you'll require a certification of your good health and eyesight as well.
Like most bureaucratic issues the rules for obtaining licenses vary from one federal state to the next. Therefore, it's advisable to contact your local Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle if you have any concerns, particularly because the process can take a long time.
Foreign drivers who wish to obtain a German license must pass both the practical and written test. If you have a driver's licence issued by their home country and do not have any points on their record are usually able to bypass these tests, however you should always consult your Strassenverkehrsamt to find out the exact requirements for your area.
It is recommended to select the Fahrschule which has experience with expats so that you don't have to pass both the theory and road test. For a fee they will assist you in understanding the German licensing system and can provide you with a tutor who will coach you through the course. They can also provide advice on the best way to obtain your license and can also recommend an English-speaking translator should you require. You can find a list of accredited Fahrschulen in your area on the website of the Bundesministerium for Bildung und Arbeit.
4. Get a German Driver's License
The process of obtaining a German driver's license is a crucial step for expats moving to Germany. Getting your license will help you navigate the roads with ease and allow you to drive in any kind of vehicle. You must be over the age of 18 to apply, pass both the theoretical and practical exam, take an initial aid course, and pass an eye test. The exact requirements will vary based on the kind of license you're looking to obtain However, you should be able to pay around 1500 euros for registration, lessons and the exam.
Fortunately, most foreign drivers will not need to retake their tests to get a German license. If your license was issued in a nation that is part of the EU/EEA or has a reciprocal agreement with Germany you can exchange it for the German Fuhrerschein without having to retake any tests. Exceptions are made for drivers who have been operating within the EU/EEA area for two years or more and motorcyclists whose driving licence will need to be replaced.
If you aren't eligible to transfer or if you need a motorcycle licence (C1) it is simpler and quicker to start over and take the German driving tests. In these situations you'll still have to pass both theory and the practical. The first step is visiting an official Fahrschule that has had experience working with foreign students. They can help you navigate the bureaucracy involved in getting your license. They can also help you locate the required first-aid training and an eye doctor who can administer the eye test.
A good Fahrschule might charge a modest fee, but it's worth the convenience of having someone else manage the paperwork. Getting your license is an important step in the process of settling in, so it's worthwhile to put the time and effort making it happen. Once you've got your license, you can explore Germany at your leisure.