10 Things People Hate About Buying A German Driving License Experiences

Buying a German Driving License To get the German driving license takes a lot of time and money. It also takes a lot nerves. Major mistakes can cost you your license and a bomb and minor mistakes could slash your time on the road. The good news is that citizens of certain nations have reciprocity with Germany and are able to exchange their licenses. The process varies by country. 1. Get a Passport You must first get an identity card before you think about purchasing a German driving license. There are a number of ways to do this, and the method you select will depend on your personal situation and your personal goals. However, the most basic steps are to apply for an immigration visa (if required) collect the required documents and pass any required citizenship tests and language tests. It is recommended to seek the assistance from an immigration specialist who can help you navigate this procedure. The process of getting an identity card is lengthy, but it is the first step needed to be legally living and working here in Germany. A passport costs around EUR90 and you'll need submit a variety of official documents in order to process your application. You'll need, for example an ID that is valid (e.g. driver's license or passport) as well as identification proof and proof of insurance and a marriage or birth certificate. In some instances you may have to undergo a medical exam and submit a biometric passport photo. In certain situations the passport process may be lengthy and complex especially for people with a criminal record or a history of violent crimes. In these situations, it is a good idea to speak with a qualified immigration lawyer who will provide guidance and support through the entire process. If you're a citizen of the EU / EEA or a country with a reciprocal driver's license agreement with Germany You may be able to exchange your license from another country to a German one relatively easily without taking a theoretical or practical driving test. This will vary between countries and even within one city. To find out if you are able to exchange your license from another country for one a German one You'll need to make an appointment with the Strassenverkehrsamt or Fuhrerscheinstelle in your city. The requirements for this appointment may differ from country to nation So, make sure to go through this list prior to when you make your appointment. You may also have to have your driving license translated, which could make this process more time-consuming. 2. German Visa If you aren't a German citizen (or EU citizen) and have a driving license from your country of origin, it is important to be aware that it can only be used for up to a period of six months after you become a resident of Germany. The procedure for changing a foreign driver's license may vary according to the state and local authorities in Germany however, generally you'll need to take both the theoretical and practical driving tests. Additionally, you might need to have your licence translated – the automobile club ADAC provides this service for between 55 and 85 euros. If you are planning to remain in Germany or apply for a driving permit You'll need a German visa. Make sure you have it prior to your arrival. You can obtain tourist visas at a German consulate or the embassy, or obtain an official visa to work in Germany. Once you have the visa, it is possible to start the process of applying for a driving license at your local Verkehrssamt (driving licensing office). You will require your original driving licence, proof of insurance, and an eye test certificate. You'll need to translate your driving license into German in most instances. We recommend Lingoking as a fast and inexpensive online translator for documents. It is not permitted to buy a driving licence from a different country on the time of a vacation, as this is considered a form of “licensing tourism” and can lead to grave consequences for our roads. Most cities require that you've lived in the same country that the license was issued for at least 185 days. It is not worth the risk of buying a fake licence. In addition, you'll be hit with a fine if you are stopped by police. If you decide to go through this process we suggest that you enroll in an Fahrschule that is specialized in teaching the foreigners. They can assist you navigate bureaucracy and find a first aid course if needed. 3. German Residence Permit A German residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) is legally binding document that permits you to live in Germany. To obtain one, you must meet certain criteria, such as having resided in Germany for a minimum of three years, and possessing a basic understanding of the language (level C 1 as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). Express Deutsche Kartes must be able to afford your expenses without assistance from the government. Contributing to the insurance fund that is statutory is required in addition to being able to support yourself and your family members financially. You may be able exchange your driving license to one that is a German one if you hold an driving licence issued by a nation in the EU or EEA. This is contingent on your specific circumstances and the requirements of your specific state or city. Your local Strassenverkehrsamt will be able to advise you on this. If you're thinking of exchanging your licence you'll need a certificate attesting to your eyesight and health as well. The rules governing licenses differ in each federal state and are the same for most bureaucratic issues. If you have any concerns regarding the licensing process, it is best to get in touch with your local Strassenverkehrsamt. In general, foreign drivers who wish to get a German license must first pass both the road test as well as the written test. Those who have a driver's license issued by their home countries and do not have any points on their record are usually allowed to skip these tests, but you should always check with your Strassenverkehrsamt for the exact requirements in your region. To avoid having to pass both the theory and the road test, it is recommended to enroll in an Fahrschule which has experience working with expats. These companies will help you navigate the German licensing system for a fee and provide you with a teacher who will guide you throughout the course. These companies can help you with the German licensing system and provide you with a teacher who will guide you through the course. On the website of the Bundesministerium for Bildung und Arbeits You can find an alphabetical list of accredited Fahrschulen near you. 4. Get a German Driver's License For expats who want to move to Germany, obtaining an German driving license is a vital step. It will let you navigate the roads more easily and allow you to drive in any type of vehicle. You must be at least 18 years old to apply. You'll also need to pass the theory and practical tests, take a first-aid course, and pass an eye test. The exact requirements will differ dependent on the type of license you wish to get However, you can expect to pay approximately 1500 euros, which includes registration fees, lesson costs, and the test. Fortunately, the majority of foreign drivers won't need to retake their tests to obtain an German license. If 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 an German Fuhrerschein (driver's license) without having to retake any of the tests. Drivers who have been driving in the EU/EEA area or in a state that has an agreement of reciprocity with Germany can exchange their driving license for the German Fuhrerschein (driver's license) without having to take any tests. If you're not able to transfer your license, or if you're trying to get a motorcycle driving licence (C1) It may be quicker and easier to start from scratch and take the German driving test(s). However, in these cases 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 will help you navigate the process of getting your license. They can also assist you to find the required first aid course and an eye doctor who can administer the eye test. A reputable Fahrschule may charge a small cost, but it's worth the convenience of having someone else handle the paperwork. It's worth investing the time and effort to obtain your license. And, once you have your license, you'll be able to explore Germany at your own leisure!