How to Buy a Driving License in Germany

You can only exchange a license for the German driving licence if the license was issued by a member state of the EU/EEA, or a country with a reciprocity agreement. In other cases, you must pass a practical and theoretical driving test (fees vary).

Make an appointment with the Burgeramt the earliest you can before the expiration of your foreign license.

Class A

If you're a new resident of Germany, you will require a class A driver's license before you can legally drive in Germany. This is the first step in a sequence of requirements. You must pass the theory test and practical exam before you'll be allowed to drive. Depending on your country of origin, you may also have to meet additional requirements, like taking additional classes or passing an eye test.

There are many steps involved in getting a class A driving license, including studying for the test in theory and completing a number of practical lessons with your instructor. You'll need to complete 12 training hours each of which lasts 45 minutes. In addition, you'll need pay for the driving lessons and the theory test.


After passing the test in theory, you'll need to schedule an appointment with your Fuhrerscheinstelle in your area. You'll be asked to bring your driver's permit and a copy of your identification and a passport photo. You can pick up your new driving license couple of weeks after the appointment.

The process of converting the foreign driving license to the German license varies based on the country and state. Some countries require both theoretical and practice exams, while other states offer a straightforward process of conversion. If you're not sure whether your driving license will be eligible to be exchanged make contact with your local Fuhrerscheinstelle and inquire about the specific requirements in your area.

During the practical test, you will be required to perform specific driving tasks. You will also be assessed by a qualified examiner. The examiner will provide you with instructions and directions and you'll be required to follow all traffic laws. The examiner will let you know whether you passed or failed, and you may retake the exam up to two times, if needed.

You can easily swap your driving license if you are an expat who has the license of another EU member state or EFTA. Make an appointment with your local Fuhrerscheinstelle a few weeks prior to the date your license expires. Bring your driver's license along with a proof of identity and a photo of your passport. The cost to convert your license varies based on location but should not exceed EUR24.

Class B

The class B license allows you to drive vehicles up to 3,500 kg in weight, including passenger cars. This is the most commonly used type of license in Germany. It is also the most expensive, costing around 2,600EUR to get licensed, which includes tuition from driving school as well as learning materials and practice lessons. You'll have to pass a theory test and the practical test, and have an eye exam. In addition, you'll require first aid training.

If you possess an official driver's license issued by an EU or EEA country, it will be automatically recognized in Germany, providing you meet certain requirements. This includes ensuring that your licence is not more than 10 years old and you have resided in the country for a minimum of six months. In addition, you will be required to register your car and pay for vehicle tax and insurance. Foreigners should contact their local federal state (Land) driving licensing authority to learn more about how the process works for their specific region.

The process of getting the German driver's license isn't expensive, but it's worth the cost. In the long time, an automobile will make it easier to get around, particularly in rural areas where public transportation is not available. You will also be able to travel further and save money on gas and taxi fares.

You'll also need to buy mandatory car insurance which can be quite costly. You can compare prices from various companies online to see which is the best fit for you. You'll also need to purchase an German number plate, which is included in the insurance price.

If you lose your driver's license from a foreign country or driver's license, you must provide proof that it was stolen by submitting a written declaration or theft report. You'll then have to go to the local licensing authority to have a replacement issued. You should expect to wait about four weeks before your new licence arrives in the mail.

Class C

Getting a driver's license in Germany is a necessary step in residing and working in the country. It does not only allow you to legally operate motor vehicles, but also proves your ability and demonstrates that you are well-equipped to drive in all conditions. A German driving license is highly respected throughout Europe regardless of whether you are driving for personal or work reasons. It gives you a sense freedom and independence.

To get an official German driver's license you will need to take a theoretical as well as a practical test. The theory test will cover subjects like traffic laws and road signs, whereas the practical test will test your ability to drive through a number of scenarios. It is recommended that you take a class to prepare for these tests. These classes are usually offered by private schools, and they can range in price depending on the school you select. Generally, prices include education and tuition. Additionally, you must pay fees to the authorities and for the tests.

You might be able to swap your foreign driver's license to one German one without having to take any tests. The procedure differs based on the country from which you originate, but in general, it involves submitting documentation like documents proving your identity and residency and taking and passing a medical exam to ensure that you are healthy enough to drive.

If you're moving to Germany and have a permit issued in Australia, South Korea or New Zealand, you can keep using it for up to six months. However, you'll require a translation of your existing license and pass a theoretical and practical test before your license from abroad expires.

After you have passed your driving test you will be issued an official German license that has your name and photograph engraved on it. You must renew your German licence before it expires. You will also have to submit documents including documents proving your residency and passport-sized photos.

Class D

If you're from a non EU/EEA nation, and you'd like to drive in Germany it is essential that you change your licence within six months of moving to Germany. This is done at your local driving licence authority office (Fuhrerscheinstelle), which is usually located in the city hall or a municipal district. During this procedure you will be required to surrender your foreign driving license away. The Fuhrerscheinstelle will put an inscription on your original license that reads "Not valid in Germany."

In Germany, there are five categories of driving licenses. The type of vehicle you intend to drive will determine which license is suitable for you. There are licenses for driving cars and taxis, forklifts and passenger transport and fire brigade vehicles. To get a license to drive in a specific category, you must pass an examination to prove your knowledge of the rules of road.

You will need an instructor from a school of driving to be with you during the test. The instructor will help you in getting ready for the test and will be there to answer any questions that you might have. The cost of the driving test is determined by the school and can range between EUR400 to EUR600. This includes learning materials, tuition, and driving sessions. You'll also need to pay for the driving test and any fees from the authorities.

The average price of a German driver's license is around EUR600. The price will vary depending on the type of license you need and also on the length of time you need to complete the course. You can find an instructor who has the right program for you at a reasonable price by doing some research.

In certain instances, you can exchange a foreign driving license in Germany if yours has been lost or stolen. To do this you'll need to provide a written declaration or theft report from the police, together with photo ID and evidence of your address. If you're not sure about the requirements, you can always contact your Fuhrerscheinstelle to get more information.