Buying a Driving License in Germany
If you're living in Germany in the long term or just plan to visit, having an German driving license is a great asset. It gives you a sense independence and can lead to work.
However, obtaining a German license is not an easy process. To simplify the process, UK Express Documents provides an easy and hassle-free purchase of the German driving license.
The Theory Test: Passing the Theory Test
The first step in the process of obtaining an German driving license is passing your theory test. The theory test is taken on a computer and consists of text, pictures and video questions on road signs and driving situations. The test can be completed in 11 different languages using a touchscreen, keyboard or mouse. The test is scored automatically, and you will receive your score shortly after you have completed the test. If you fail the exam, the test center provides you with a detailed explanation of where you made mistakes.
To prepare for the test For the theory test, it is recommended you make use of official RSA revision materials. These can be purchased on the internet or at local libraries. It is also useful to study the driving laws in Germany and to practice driving. The number of hours that you'll need to practice driving prior to taking the theory test will differ between drivers.
If you pass the test in theory and pass the test, you will receive an award at the test centre. You can then use it to apply for your learners permit at the Fuhrerscheinstelle (see step 9). You'll also need to undergo a health screening, an eye examination, and take the first aid course.
If you are an international student, inquire with your institution to determine what specific requirements they have for students. Some have specific provisions to assist you in getting an license quicker, while others require that you follow certain rules for the first year of your time in Germany. The requirements for obtaining an automobile license in small towns may differ from those for large cities.
After passing your theory test, you'll be eligible to take your practical driving test. The requirements for the practical driving test will vary based on the kind of vehicle you wish to drive and the level of experience you have as driver. In general, you'll require an official driving school certificate or a Pflichtstudent's certificate, proof that you completed an initial aid course and that you have completed your theory test. You must also register your vehicle at the Fuhrerscheinstelle and also obtain an insurance policy.
Completing the Practical Test
You may not have to take the practical test if you have a driving license from a foreign country that has reciprocity in whole or in part with Germany. This depends on your juridiction and therefore, you should inquire with the authorities in your home country. You will still have to register and pay the necessary fees. You'll have to purchase mandatory car insurance in Germany through DA Direkt.
If you have a driver's license from a country that is not part of the EU/EEA, you'll be required to pass an exam that is both theoretical and practical to obtain your German license. It is usually possible to take these tests through a licensed driving school and you must enroll there and make arrangements in advance. You will have to complete 12 driving classes, including city, highway and night driving, and 14 double-hours of theory training. You'll also need to pass a test in the practical area, where an examiner will sit with your instructor in the passenger seat while you navigate around the city.
The test will last between 30 to 75 minutes based on the type of license you are applying for. The examiner will assess your safety and competence and will require you to perform a few technical maneuvers. It is common for the test to be conducted in German therefore it might help to take a few German classes beforehand. Your driving instructor will be in the driver's seat with you during the exam and the examiner will be following you from the Dekra or TUV office to a quiet road to take your test drive.
If you've passed the test in practice and passed the practical test, you'll receive temporary driving license that permits you to legally drive until your permanent license arrives in the mail just a few weeks later. You can then collect your licence at the driver's license office. You'll need your passport or identity card as well as evidence of payment.
Your driver's license will be valid for two years after you've collected it. You must renew your license each year, by presenting your proof of identification and paying the registration fees. You may lose your driving license if you commit a traffic infraction during this period.
How to obtain a license
With its fast autobahns and beautiful landscapes, Germany is an enticing driving destination. If you are looking to obtain a driving license in Germany, you must carefully consider the process and be aware of road regulations. To get to obtain a German driving license you must be at least 18 years old, meet certain criteria, such as passing a written test, taking lessons and passing the practical exam. A driver must also not have a criminal history or traffic offenses that are major in nature.
Once you've aced the test of theory, it's time for driving lessons. They are designed to help you hone your skills and become acquainted with German road signals, signs, and rules. After you've completed your training, it's now time to take the practical exam. The examiner will assess your ability to drive in a variety of situations and safely shift lane. Fuehrerscheinn is recommended to take as many lessons as you can prior to taking the test. This will improve your chances of passing.
Before a driver is licensed in Germany, they must also be able to pass a background check and physical check. The process can take up to up to six months and includes a basic health exam and an eye test. The background check also includes a fingerprint and an interview. The individual who wishes to drive in Germany also needs an authentic passport and evidence that they are permitted to reside in Germany.
You are not required to pass the test in theory or on the practical side in the event that you are arriving in Germany from a nation within the EU/EEA or a country that has a reciprocal driving license agreement. However, you'll need exchange your foreign driving license to one German one within six months of settling in Germany. This can be done at the local driving license office or Fuhrerscheinstelle. This is typically part of a city hall or a citizen's bureau.
To complete the process, you'll require your foreign driving license and a recent photo and an official copy of your birth certificates or official ID. After approval you'll be issued a new German driving license by mail, which should arrive within four weeks or less.
Finding the License Plate
Getting your car registered in Germany is a relatively quick and easy process. You must provide proof of insurance, pass a technical inspection and pay the required fees, which vary based on the car type. Once all paperwork has been completed, you are ready to drive your vehicle.
In Germany you'll need an front and back license plate. The plates should contain both the country code and the district code of the area where the vehicle was registered. In Germany it is common to determine the district code from the area code. The digits that follow the prefix often provide an indication of the size of a city or district. The font used on German license plates is deliberately disproportionate and designed to discourage counterfeiting.
In most cases, you can swap your foreign driving licence in exchange for the German driver's license without having to retake the theory and practical tests. However, this will depend on the jurisdiction where you are currently residing and whether or not there is an agreement of mutual recognition with Germany. If you have a license from Australia or South Africa, Tasmania, or Victoria for instance, you can drive in Germany with your current license without having to retake the test.
Car owners must also have mandatory car insurance in Germany. The policy must be in force during the time you drive your car in Germany. You can compare quotes online to find the most suitable insurance company for your needs.
You'll also have to have a certificate of compliance (COC) in addition to your auto insurance and license. You can get this through an authorized company such as GetCOC to simplify the registration process and faster. The service is fast and inexpensive, and also provides a COC that's fully valid across all EU and EEA countries. You could be fined for not having an authentic COC.