Obtaining a Driving Licence in Germany
How can I drive in Germany?
Having a driving licence can be very useful. For those who live in a village or a small remote city without proper access to public transport, in particular, obtaining a driving licence and often purchasing a car is necessary. In this chapter, you can learn how to get a German driving licence or convert (“Umschreiben”) the driving licence you have obtained from your home country. There will also be some tips on how to avoid losing your driving licence. Obtaining a Driving Licence in Germany Obtaining a Driving Licence in Germany
Is my driving licence valid in Germany?
To drive in Germany, in principle, you need a driving licence issued in Germany or another EU country. Driving licences from non-EU countries are only valid for six months in Germany. This means that you are only allowed to drive in Germany with a driving licence from your home country for the first six months. The period begins with your first registration of your address in Germany. You must always carry your driving licence when driving.
You must also have a translation of your driving licence into German with you. The translation must have been done by a German or internationally recognized automobile club or an authority in your home country or by a sworn translator. You can find sworn translators at bdue.de. No translation is required for driving licences issued from the following countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Andorra, Hong Kong, Monaco, New Zealand, San Marino, Switzerland and Senegal. You don’t need a translation for international driving licences, either.
At the end of these six months, you need to convert your driving licence (“Umschreibung”) if you wish to continue driving. You can read more about the process in the section “Where and how can I have my driving licence converted?”
If you are only visiting Germany, you are allowed to drive with the driving licence you have obtained in your home country or an international driving licence. Keep in mind that you must always have your driving licence with you when driving.
How and where can I have my driving licence converted (“Umschreibung”)?
If your driving licence is not issued in Germany or another EU country, you must have it converted (“Umschreibung”) at the latest six months after the first registration of your address in Germany.
In order to start the process, you need to apply to the local Driving Licence Office (“Fahrerlaubnisbehörde” or “Führerscheinstelle”). Depending on where you live and the number of applicants, it may take a while before they process your application. So, it makes sense to start the process before your initial six months are over to make sure you do not lose time. You can find a Driving Licence Office by using the Application Form
