How to Get a Driving License in Germany
Driving licenses are essential documents in Germany for anyone operating motorized vehicles, as they must be obtained to operate most motorized vehicles. There are special permits required to operate taxis, fire brigade cars and large commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses.
A Fuhrerscheinstelle can provide drivers with licenses similar to passports that are valid for 15 years and come in plastic cards similar to credit cards.
To obtain a German driving license, first provide proof of your identity and address. Next, submit documentation regarding your health and eyesight – also bring along any copies of previous driving licences if available.
If you are applying from one of Germany’s reciprocity agreements countries, your application for a driving license can be processed much more quickly – no exams need to be taken and only essential documents need to be provided as evidence of eligibility.
Dependent upon your nationality, Germany offers various licenses with specific requirements depending on which category they fall under. Drivers who possess class B licenses, C or D bus and truck permits and motorcycle or taxi driving authorization all meet those standards.
These types of licenses can only be acquired if you have lived in Germany for at least three years and do not have any convictions for drunk driving or driving without a valid license. Furthermore, you will need to complete certain driving hours with an instructor prior to sitting the exam.
Driving License in Germany
Once you have the necessary documents in order, it is time to schedule your driving test at your nearest Fuhrerscheinstelle. Be aware that wait times for appointments can sometimes be long and that this process might not always run smoothly.
Before taking your test, it’s essential that you undergo theoretical training from a driving school. Your courses will cover topics like road safety, speed limits and traffic laws.
Once you pass your theory test, it’s time for the practical driving exam in an actual car. Your driving teacher will sit as passenger while the examiner directs. Expect 45 minutes for this particular exam.
Once you pass your test, you will receive a slip allowing you to drive until you can receive your official driving license. Be sure to keep this slip with you at all times when driving; if in doubt about how your results were, take multiple retakes of the exam until your results become clear.
If your driving license has expired, it is possible to exchange it for a new one at the Fuhrerscheinstelle; however, you must provide them with an adequate reason as soon as possible as the process can take some time before receiving a replacement license. It may take up to several weeks before receiving your new one.
