How to Buy a Driving License in Germany

If you move to Germany from a foreign country or US state that has reciprocity with Germany then you can exchange your license. In some cases you may have to pass a theoretical and practical test.

Prices vary So, look around! Also, be sure to select an accredited driving school.

What is a driver's license?

A driving license is a document that permits you to operate a motor vehicle. It contains information about your name, your father's name and date of birth. It also contains the authorized vehicle types you are allowed to drive as well as an emergency contact number fingerprints, blood group and a driver's photo. führerschein kaufen driving license also includes magnet strips, even though it is not currently being used.

To pass the driving test in Germany, you must pass both the theoretical and practical tests. The driving test typically takes about 45 minutes and is conducted by a qualified examiner. The examiner will ask you questions about German road signs and rules, as well as some general knowledge. The examiner will inform you if you have passed or not following the exam. If you pass the test you will be issued a slip allowing you to drive until you can pick up your license a few weeks later.

When you take your driving test, the most important thing to do is to be calm and relaxed. Many people fail their driving tests because they panic or forget the rules of the road. It is also essential to practice driving as much as possible before the actual exam especially if you're from a country where driving regulations differ.

If you're in Germany for only a short time and you're driving a car, your license from your home country may suffice. However, if you're moving to Germany permanently and you're planning to stay there for a long time, you'll need a new license. Luckily, a majority of countries have reciprocal agreements with Germany and you can exchange your driving license in exchange for the Fuhrerschein when you have registered your address in Germany.

However, you have to first submit certificates attesting to your health and eyesight. It is also required to take driving lessons with an accredited German Fahrschule and pass both the theoretical and practical tests before you can obtain your license. This can be expensive however it's the only way to legally operate the vehicle in Germany. There are English-speaking driving schools online using this search aggregater.

How do I get a German driver's license?

You might be able exchange your driving license for the Fuhrerschein without having to pass a theoretical test or a practical test if you are a resident of an agreed-upon nation with Germany. The exact procedure is different from country to country and you should consult the local driving office for the most up-to date information. In general, you'll need to register your residency and provide documents that prove you're healthy and have clear vision. In some instances, you'll also need to provide proof that your license is not suspended or cancelled.

For instance, if from Australia or New Zealand, you can exchange your license for a German one without needing to take any tests. If you're from South Australia or Tasmania, however it is necessary to pass a theory and practice test is required to get a full driving license.

For those who come from an area that doesn't have an agreement with Germany or the United States, the process of getting the German driving license is more difficult. In most instances, you'll have to complete a course in a driving school and pass a theoretical and practical test before you can get Fuhrerschein. You'll need to register your car and complete a first-aid course.

You'll need to schedule an appointment with your Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle and bring the required documents. You'll receive a confirmation letter after your appointment that will inform you when you'll be able to pick-up your German driving license. It could take anywhere from four to six weeks for the application to be processed.

Once you've obtained the German driving license valid for 15 years. If it's coming up for expiration you can renew it by bringing your driver's license along with a passport photograph to an authority for licensing in your area. A small amount of EUR24 is required. It is essential to inform your licensing authority immediately in the event that you lose your German driver's license. This will prevent fraudulent use of identity and/or unauthorised actions. You'll need to provide an email stating that you will return the license in the event of being found.

Can I apply for a German license even if I already have a foreign driving license?

If you hold a license from an EU or EEA country or a country which has a special reciprocity agreement with Germany, then you are able to exchange your driving license from another country for one that is a German one without taking any theoretical and practical exams. This is only possible if the driver has been driving for a long period of time, or has established a permanent residence in Germany and registered their residential address.

In this case you'll still need to provide proof of your identity and a recent passport photograph. You will also need to register your car with the authorities and pass a safety check (TUV). Also, you must obtain insurance for your vehicle, since it is a requirement in Germany. More information can be found on our page on driving in Germany.

In general you are only able to keep your driver's licence for 15 years. When you're getting close to the end of its validity you must arrange an appointment with the local driver licensing office at least four weeks in advance to renew it. This will allow you time to complete the necessary paperwork. Bring your current driver's license, renewal form, and a recent passport photograph with you.

The specific requirements for obtaining an international driving licence may differ based on the federal state in which you reside. If you're not sure about the requirements, you can call the local driver license office (Fuhrerscheinstelle). They'll be able to provide more details.

If you're trying to exchange a foreign licence to a German one, you'll have to submit an unwritten statement or theft report (as as well as the original document) and an authentic passport photo. You'll then need to pass a written and/or practical driving test, as as pass a medical examination.

During the driving test, which is a practical one during the test, you'll be asked questions about traffic laws in Germany. Then, you'll be given the chance to demonstrate your driving skills on a public roadway. You will receive your new German licence a few days later in the event that you pass.

Can I get a German license if I already have a US driving license?

The rules differ based on the state where you obtained your license. In the US every state has its own set of regulations for licensing drivers. For instance, in Massachusetts those who hold an active German driving license are able to drive in the USA for up to one year without exchange or having their US licenses changed.

It is highly recommended that those planning to remain in the USA for longer than the period or who will be returning to Germany as permanent residents, obtain an International Driver's License while there. Otherwise, when you go to the Fuhrerscheinstelle (driving license authority) in Germany in Germany, you'll need to hand over your American license to obtain a German licence.

You can find information about the process and the documentation required in Anlage 11 of the German Federal Road Traffic Act (Standard-Fahrzeugsteuergesetz, SFTG). The Anlage contains the states and countries where a driver’s license from that country may be transferred without having to retake a driving test. It includes Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Minnesota, North Carolina, Nebraska, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia.


If you do not come from a state or country included in Anlage 11 or you wish to take a different license, you have to complete the course of instruction and pass the tests. This involves signing up at a driving school, taking classes in theory, passing an exam written (multiple-choice) test, and passing a practical driving test to demonstrate that you understand the rules of the road and that you can manage a car. The driving test is conducted by an expert examiner. The cost of the theory and driving lessons will vary, but can be anywhere between a few hundred and two thousand euros.

You will also have to purchase auto insurance that is mandatory. Prices differ from one firm to another. Compare quotes online. Some of the major companies in Germany include DA Direkt and ADAC.