Buying a German Driving License

The process of purchasing the German driver's license takes a lot time and money. It also takes a lot nerves. Big mistakes can cost you your license (and an enormous amount of money) while small mistakes could cut your time on the road to nil.

The good news is that citizens of certain countries have reciprocity with Germany and can easily exchange their licenses. Other than that, the process is different for each country.

1. Get an identity card

You must first get an identity card before you look into purchasing a German driving license. There are a variety of ways to do this and the method you select will depend on your specific 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 might also want to consult with an immigration specialist who can help you through the process.

The process of obtaining an identity card is lengthy but it's an essential first step to legally working and living in Germany. The cost for a passport is about 90 euros, and you'll have to submit a variety of official documents in order to be considered for a passport. For example, you will need an ID card that is valid (e.g. driver's license, driver's license or passport) as well as a proof of identity, evidence of health insurance, and an official birth or marriage certificate. In certain instances, you could be required to submit a biometric photo and undergo an examination by a doctor.

In some instances the process of obtaining a passport may be lengthy and complex particularly for people with a criminal record or a history of violent crimes. In these instances it's best to consult with an experienced immigration lawyer who can provide assistance and guidance throughout the process.

You might 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 foreign driving license for a German driving license without having to take the theory or practical driving test. This will vary from one country to another and even within the same city.

To find out if you are able to exchange your license from another country to a German one, you'll need to make an appointment with the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in your city. Check the list of requirements prior to you go. They can vary from one country to the next. You may also need to have your driving license translated, which will add time to this step.

2. Get a German Visa

It is essential to be aware that if you're not a German (or EU) citizen and have a driving license from your home country you are only able to use it for six months after becoming an resident of Germany. The procedure for exchanging a foreign driver's license will vary based on the state of federality and local authorities in Germany however, generally you'll need to take both the theoretical and practical driving tests. It is also possible to translate your license. The automobile club ADAC offers this service for between 55 and85 euros.

You'll need a visa order to remain in Germany and apply for your driving license, so make sure you have one before you arrive. You can obtain an entry visa for tourists from the German consulate or embassy, or you can get a business visa to working in Germany or a self-employment visa if you are planning to establish your own company.

Once you have an entry visa, it is possible to start the process of applying for a driving license at your local Verkehrssamt (driving licensing office). You'll require the original driving licence along with proof of insurance and an eye test certificate. You'll require a translation of your driving license into German in most cases. We recommend Lingoking as a quick and inexpensive online translator for documents.

It is not permissible to purchase a driving permit from a different country during a holiday. This is referred to as "licensing tourist" and could result in serious consequences for our roads. The majority of cities require that you've been in the country from which your licence was issued for at least 185 days.

It's not worth the risk of buying an unauthentic license. Besides, you'll be landed with a hefty fine if you are stopped by the police. If you do decide to do this we suggest going through a Fahrschule which specializes in teaching foreigners. They can assist you in navigating the bureaucracy, and even provide a first aid course if necessary.

3. You can apply for a German Residence Permit

A German residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) is legally binding document that permits you to live in Germany. You must meet certain requirements to be eligible for one, such as having lived in Germany for at least three years and possessing a basic knowledge of German (level 1 as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). It also requires proof that you are capable of covering your living expenses without assistance from the government and contributing to the statutory health insurance fund, and being able to care for yourself and Registrierten FüHrerschein Online Kaufen your family financially.

You might be able to exchange your driving licence for one that is a German one if you own a driving license issued by a country in the EU or EEA. This is contingent on your specific circumstances and the requirements of your particular city or state. Your local Strassenverkehrsamt will be able to provide you with advice on this. You'll also require a certificate stating your good health and vision if you plan to transfer your license.

Like most bureaucratic issues the rules for obtaining licenses vary from one federal state to the next. Therefore, it's advisable to consult your local Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle if you have any concerns, particularly since the process is time-consuming.

In general foreign drivers who want to get a German licence must first pass both the practical road test and the theoretical written test. If you hold an official German driving license and no points on your record, you are able to generally skip the tests. However, it's best to inquire with your Strassenverkehrsamt about the exact requirements for your area.

It is recommended to pick a Fahrschule that has experience with expats to avoid having to pass both the theory and road test. For a nominal fee they can help you navigate the German licensing system and can provide you with a tutor who will guide you through the process. They can also advise you on the best way to obtain your licence and will also suggest an English-speaking translator should you require. On the website of the Bundesministerium für Bildung und Arbeits you can locate an alphabetical list of accredited Fahrschules near you.

4. Get a German Driver's License

Obtaining a German driver's license is an essential step for expats moving to Germany. You'll be able to get around more easily and operate any vehicle with your license. You must be 18 years old to apply. You'll also have to pass the theory and practical examinations, complete a first aid course, and pass the eye test. The exact requirements vary depending on what type of license you are seeking, but you can expect to pay about 1500 euros for registration fees, tuition, and the exam.

Fortunately, the majority of foreign drivers do not have to take their tests again to get the German license. As long as your driving licence was issued in an EU/EEA country or in a state that has an exclusive reciprocal agreement with Germany, you can simply exchange it for the German Fuhrerschein (driver's license) without having to retake any of the tests. There are exceptions for drivers who have been driving in the EU/EEA for two years or more, and for motorcyclists, whose driving licence will need to be replaced.

If you're unable to transfer your license, or if you're trying to get a motorcycle driver's licence (C1), it may be more convenient and faster to begin from scratch and complete the German driving test(s). In these cases you'll need to pass both the theory and practical tests. The first step is visiting an official Fahrschule that has had experience working with foreign students. They can help you navigate the process of getting your license. They can also help you locate a first aid course (required) and locate an eye doctor for the eye test.

A good Fahrschule might charge a modest fee, but it's well worth the convenience of having someone else take care of the paperwork. It's worth investing the time and führerschein kaufen erfahrungen führerschein kaufen deutschland seriös, straight from the source, effort required to get your license. Once you've got your license you'll be able to explore Germany at your own leisure!