What's Holding Back What's Holding Back The Buying A German Driving License Experiences Industry?
Buying a German Driving License The purchase of the German driver's license requires a lot time and money. It also involves a lot of nerves. Making mistakes that are costly will result in the loss of your license (and a bomb) while minor ones can make your experience on the road to nil. The good news is, citizens of certain countries enjoy reciprocity with Germany. They are able to easily exchange their licenses. The procedure differs from country to country. 1. Get an identity card Before you even think about purchasing a German driver's license, you'll need to obtain your passport. There are a number of ways to get this done, and the method you choose will depend on your individual situation and goals. The first step is to apply for a visa, collecting the necessary documents and passing any required language and citizenship assessments. You may also want to consult with an immigration specialist who can assist you navigate the process. The process for getting the passport can be lengthy however it's a necessary first step for legally working and living in Germany. A passport costs around EUR90 and you'll need submit a number of official documents in order to process your application. You'll require, for instance, a valid ID (e.g. a driver's licence or passport) and evidence of your identity, proof of insurance, and a birth or marriage certificate. In certain situations you may have to undergo a medical examination and submit a biometric passport photograph. In some cases, obtaining an identity card can be a long and complex process, particularly if you have a criminal background or a history of violent crime. In these cases it's best to speak with an experienced immigration lawyer who can provide guidance and support throughout the process. If you're a resident of the EU or EEA or a country that has a reciprocal driver's license agreement with Germany, you may be able to exchange your license from another country for a German one fairly easily, without taking a formal or practical driving exam. But, this may differ from country to country, and even from office to office within a city. To find out if it is possible that you can exchange your foreign license to one a German one you'll need to schedule an appointment at the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in your city. The conditions for this appointment could vary from country to country so make sure you review this list prior to you make your appointment. You may also have to have your foreign driving license translated, which could delay the process. 2. Get a German Visa If you're not a German citizen (or EU citizen) and possess a driving licence from your home country it is crucial to note that it can only be used for up to six months after becoming a resident of Germany. The procedure for transferring an international driving license could differ based on the state or local authorities in Germany. However, you will usually have to pass both the theoretical and the practical test. Additionally, you might require your license translated. The automobile club ADAC provides this service between 55 and 85 euros. If you plan to remain in Germany or apply for a driving permit you'll require an German visa. Be sure to have it before you arrive. You can apply for tourist visas at a German consulate or an embassy, or an official visa to work in Germany. Once you've obtained your visa, you are able to apply for a driver's license at your local Verkehrssamt. You will need to bring along the original driving licence and proof of insurance and an eye test certificate. In the majority of instances, you'll need a translation of your driving license into German We recommend using Lingoking for cost-effective and quick online translations of documents. It is not allowed to buy a driving license from a different country while on holiday. führerschein kaufen deutschland is referred to as “licensing tourist” and could have serious consequences for our roads. The majority of cities require that you've been in the country from which your license was issued for a minimum of 185 days. There are some non-traditional methods to avoid this like buying a fake license but it's not worth the risk. In addition, you'll be hit with a fine in case you are stopped by police. If you do decide to take this route, we recommend going through a Fahrschule which specializes in teaching foreigners. They can help you navigate through the bureaucracy, and even provide a first aid course, if required. 3. You can apply for a German Residence Permit The German residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) is a legal document that permits you to reside in Germany. To obtain one, you must meet certain criteria, such as having resided in Germany for a period of three years and having a basic knowledge of the language (level C 1 as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). You must also prove that you can pay for your living expenses without public assistance. Contributing to the statutory insurance fund is mandatory, as well as being able to provide for your family and friends financially. You might be able to exchange your driving licence for one that is a German one if you own an driving licence issued by a country in the EU or EEA. This will depend on your particular circumstances and the requirements of your specific state or city. This is something your local Strassenverkehrsamt can assist you with. You will also require proof of your good health and vision in case you want to transfer your license. Like most bureaucratic issues, the rules surrounding licenses vary from one federal state to the next. If you have questions regarding the licensing process it is best to speak with your local Strassenverkehrsamt. Foreign drivers looking to get a German license must pass the practical and written test. Drivers who have a license issued by their country of origin and have no points on their record are usually able to bypass these tests, however it is best to check with your Strassenverkehrsamt to find out the exact requirements in your area. It is recommended to pick an Fahrschule which has experience with expats so that you don't have to pass both the road test and the theory. For a small fee they will assist you in understanding the German licensing system and can provide you with a trainer who will coach you through the process. These companies can assist you with the German licensing system and can provide you with a trainer who will guide you through the course. On the website of the Bundesministerium für Bildung und Arbeits, you can find an alphabetical list of accredited Fahrschulen near you. 4. Get a German Driver's License In order to obtain a German driver's license is a crucial step for expats who are moving to Germany. It will let you navigate the roads more easily and allow you to drive in any type of vehicle. You must be 18 years old to apply. You'll also have to pass the practical and theoretical examinations, complete a first aid course, and pass the eye test. The exact requirements will vary based on the type of license you are trying to get however, you should expect to pay about 1500 euros for registration fees, tuition and the test. Fortunately, the majority of foreign drivers won't need to retake their tests to obtain an German license. If your driving license was issued in an EU/EEA country or in a country that has a special reciprocal agreement with Germany it is possible to exchange it for a German Fuhrerschein (driver's license) without needing to retake any of the tests. Some exceptions are granted to drivers who have been operating in the EU/EEA for two years or more and for motorcyclists whose licence must be replaced. If you're unable to transfer your licence, or if you want to obtain a motorcycle driving licence (C1), it may be quicker and easier to begin from scratch and complete the German driving test(s). In these instances, you'll need to pass the theory test and the practice test. The first step is to go to an official Fahrschule with experience with foreign students. They can help you navigate the formalities involved in getting your license. They will also assist you to locate a first-aid training course (required) and find an eye doctor for the eye test. A reputable Fahrschule will charge a modest fee for this service, but the convenience of having an experienced professional handle all paperwork is worth it. Getting your license is an important stage in getting settled in, so it's worthwhile to invest the time and effort into making it happen. Once you've got your license you'll be able to explore Germany at your leisure!