Buy a Driving License Legally in Germany
If your driver's license was issued in Australia, Canada, USA, South Africa or New Zealand You have full reciprocity with Germany and are able to drive here without having to pass any tests.
The process of exchanging a license is generally similar in every federal state (Lander). You'll need to submit an explanation in writing of the reason for the exchange of your passport and license. German is also highly recommended.
What is a Fuhrerschein?
A Fuhrerschein gives the right to drive in Germany. It is a highly esteemed document that represents not only the ability to drive, but also the freedom, independence and responsibility that comes with it. It can be a difficult process to get a Fuhrerschein, but it's essential for everyone who wishes to work and live in Germany.
The rules and requirements of the Fuhrerschein differ based on the type of applicant and the individual. The applicant must possess an active driving license from their country of origin or a different country that has reciprocity with Germany. If you are exchanging your driving license, you do not need to pass the written test or a practical test.
It is also important to remember that a Fuhrerschein is not able to be used by individuals who have committed serious traffic violations or committed criminal offences. In these cases, the driving license will be confiscated and you won't be able to get it back until a specific time period has been completed (called the Sperrfrist).
Fuhrerschein holders are also subject to a number of conditions that guarantee their safety and that of other road users. There are also requirements for holders of Fuhrerschein, such as a minimum level of insurance as well as the requirement to wear a seatbelt and the prohibition on using electronic devices while driving. It is also essential for Fuhrerschein holders, to maintain an acceptable standard of driving and never drink and drive.
If you're a citizen of an EU or EEA country and are planning to move to Germany it is crucial to be aware that your driving permit from your home country will be valid in Germany for up to 6 months. After six months, you will require a German driving license to continue driving. You could be fined and face other penalties if not.
To avoid any issues, it is a good idea to apply for a Fuhrerschein application as soon as possible. You can apply for a Fuhrerschein visiting the Strassenverkehrsamt in the city you reside in. You will need to provide proof of your identity, a copy of your current license as well as other documents to complete the procedure.
How do I apply for an Fuhrerschein?
The process for obtaining a Fuhrerschein differs in each state. While sneak a peek at this website are formulated at the national level, individuals states interpret them differently. You should always check with the local authority for driving licenses (Fuhrerscheinstelle - usually housed within your local Citizens' Office) to see what the procedure is.
Before you apply, you will need to ensure that the original licence you obtained is valid and it was issued by a country that is a member of the EU / EEA or a country with an exclusive reciprocal agreement with Germany. You should also have lived in the same country that issued your license for a minimum of 185 consecutive days.
When you visit your Fuhrerscheinstelle, they will check that you are eligible to apply by examining your documents. Then, you'll take the Sehtest which is a basic test that checks if your eyesight meets the minimum standards required for safe driving. You can also use corrective glasses to pass the test if needed.
After passing the Sehtest you will receive from the Fuhrerscheinstelle a Bescheinigung that your application was approved. This document is crucial because you'll need it to get your new German license. You will receive your Abgabensbescheid within 2-3 weeks. The document is a confirmation of your license fees that is around EUR35. Once you have paid your fee, you will be able to pick up your new German license.
The process of obtaining a Fuhrerschein isn't an easy process and is likely to take some time to complete. We can make the process as simple as possible for you by providing a step-bystep guide and help you gather the required documents. We can also assist with the German driving test if needed. For more information about our services we invite you to contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!
How do I upgrade my Fuhrerschein?
If you're moving to Germany and are planning to drive here you'll eventually have to swap your license for a Fuhrerschein. It's a bit more difficult than just swapping your existing international driver's license for one German one, since you'll have to take the theory and driving test here (or at the very least, attempt). It's still possible.
Enrolling in a driving school or "Fahrschule" is the first step in making your Fuhrerschein a full driving license. They will guide you through your theoretical and practical lessons and help you with the documentation. You will also need to get your vehicle insured and it's a good idea to attend a few additional driving lessons to get used to.
After you have completed these steps, you will be sent a letter to confirm that your application was approved. The document is referred to as Bescheinigung, and you must keep this until you receive your new license in the post.
Once you have your Bescheinigung you can go to your local driving license office to complete the final stage of the procedure. You will need to present your Fuhrerschein along with a photo and a proof of identity together with any other relevant documents.

After you've applied, it will take around four weeks to receive your new driving licence in the mail. When you receive your new driving licence you are able to legally drive in Germany.
You can pay a small fee to have your licence produced at the Burgeramt in case you don't want to wait. It will speed up the process, but the quality will be different.
You are able to drive in Germany with your international license until January 2022. However, you'll be in trouble if arrested by the police. Additionally, you'll probably need to pay more in car insurance. If you plan to stay in Germany for longer than six months, it is recommended to get your German driving license as soon as you can. This thorough guide will help you understand how to get your German driving licence.
How do I exchange my EU or EEA licence for a German Fuhrerschein?
If you have a driver's license from a nation that is within the EU or EEA (which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway), you can continue to use it for up to six months following your move to Germany. If you plan to stay for longer or your license has expired, you'll have to exchange it for the German licence. This is a legal requirement and also the only way you can renew your license beyond the date of expiration. If you have certificates attesting your good health or eyesight the possibility of an exception could be granted. Contact your local driving licence office (Fuhrerscheinstelle) to find out more.
Driving licenses issued by countries that have reciprocal agreements, like Australia and Canada, or the USA could be transferred to Germany without a theory test or a practical test. It is more difficult for drivers who do not have an agreement that is reciprocal with Germany. However even in this scenario, it is possible to pass all the necessary steps without having to undergo the entire driving test and training procedure.
kann man legal einen führerschein kaufen in changing your foreign driver's licence into a Fuhrerschein is to submit an application form along with the necessary documents to your local driving licensing office which is also known as the Fuhrerscheinstelle. The process of converting a licence can differ by federal state. It is therefore recommended to call ahead or go to the website of your local Fuhrerscheinstelle to learn more about the specific requirements in your region.
You'll need to submit proof of your identity and a valid driver's license, as well as a certificate proving your health and vision. You'll also have to pay the relevant fees. It is best to apply as soon as you can and at least before your foreign driving licence expires to ensure that you get your Fuhrerschein on time. It is recommended to also keep your old driving licence until you receive your new one, as it can be useful for identification purposes.