Buying a Driving License in Germany
If you're planning to live in Germany for the long haul or just planning to visit, having an German driving license is a great asset. It gives you a sense independence and opens doors to employment.
However, obtaining the German license isn't an easy process. UK Express Documents makes it easy to purchase a German driving license.
The Theory Test
The first step towards obtaining an German license is passing the theory test. Fuehrerscheinn can be completed on an electronic device. It will ask you questions about road signs, driving scenarios and also text, images, and video. The test can be taken in 11 different languages using a touchscreen, keyboard or mouse. The test is scored automatically and your score will be emailed to you immediately after you've completed the test. If you fail the exam the test center will provide you with a detailed explanation of the areas where you made mistakes.
It is recommended to use the official RSA revision materials to prepare for the exam in theory. These can be purchased online or at local libraries. It is also helpful to learn about the driving laws in Germany and to practice driving. The amount of time you need to practice before taking the theory test will differ from driver to driver.
You will receive an acknowledgement from the test centre once you have completed the theory test. Then, you can use this to apply for your learner's permit at the Fuhrerscheinstelle (see step #9). You will also have undergo a health check and an eye exam, as well as take an initial aid course.
It is advisable to check with your institution to determine what requirements they have for international students. Some universities have special provisions that will help you obtain an license faster, whereas others require you to adhere to certain regulations during your first year in Germany. The requirements for obtaining an auto license in small towns can differ from those in large cities.
After passing your theory test, you are able to apply for a test of driving. The requirements for the practical driving test will be contingent on the kind of vehicle you'd like to drive and how much experience you have as a driver. In general, you will require an official driving school certificate or a proof of student status, proving that you completed a first aid course, and have passed your theory exam. You will also need to have your car registered at the Fuhrerscheinstelle and also obtain an insurance policy.
Passing the Practical Test
If you hold a license from a country with full or partial reciprocity with Germany, you may not be required to pass the test. This depends on your juridiction and therefore, you should inquire with the authorities in your country of residence. You'll need to sign up and pay the required fees. Additionally, you will need to purchase mandatory car insurance in Germany, which is done through DA Direkt.
If your licence is from a country that is not a member of the EU/EEA you must pass both the theoretical and practical test to earn your German driving license. The tests can only be taken at a driving school that's licensed, so enroll and make arrangements prior to. You'll need to complete 14 double hours of theory instruction and 12 driving lessons (which include highway, city night, and city driving). Additionally, you'll have to take a practical exam in which a test taker will be in the seat of your instructor while you drive around town.
The test will last between 30 and 75 minutes, depending on the type of license you're applying for. You'll be required to demonstrate your technical skills and safety, and perform a few maneuvers. It is common for the test to be conducted in German therefore it might be beneficial to take a few German classes prior to the exam. The examiner will accompany you to the quiet road where you'll be able to test drive, while your driving instructor will be in the passenger's seat.
If you pass the test in the practical, a temporary driving licence will be sent to you. This permits you to legally drive for a few weeks until your permanent driving license arrives. You can then collect your licence at the driver's license authority office. You'll need your passport or identity card and evidence of payment.
After you've collected your driving license, it will be valid for two years. You must renew your license every year by presenting your identification proof and paying the registration fees. You may lose your driving license if are caught in traffic violations during this time.
How do you obtain a license?
Germany is a great driving destination thanks to its beautiful landscapes and fast autobahns. Anyone who wants to obtain a license to drive in this European country should consider the process carefully and understand road regulations. To get a German driving license, you must be 18 years old, and meet certain requirements, including passing a written test, taking lessons and passing the test. In addition, potential drivers should have no major criminal record or traffic violations.
After you've passed the test of theory, it's time for driving lessons. These lessons are designed to help improve your driving skills and familiarize yourself with German road signs and regulations. After you've completed your training, it's now time to take the practical exam. The examiner will test your ability to drive in a variety of situations and make safe lane shifts. It's a good idea to attend as numerous driving lessons as you can before you take the exam in order to increase your chances of passing.
Drivers who are aspiring to become drivers must also be able to pass a physical test and background test before they are licensed to drive in Germany. The process can take up to six months and includes a basic vision test as well as a general health check, depending on the type of license you're applying for. The background check also includes a fingerprint as well as an interview. Drivers who want to drive in Germany must also possess a valid passport and prove they are legally allowed to stay in Germany.
If you're arriving in Germany from a country in the EU/EEA or a country that has a special reciprocal driving licensing agreement, you might not need to take the theoretical or practical tests. However, you'll need exchange your driving license from abroad for one German one within six months of your arrival in Germany. This can be done at the local office for driving licenses or Fuhrerscheinstelle. It's usually part of a city hall or a citizen's bureau.
To complete the process, you'll need your foreign driving license, a current photo, and an official copy of your birth certificate or an official ID. Once your application is approved you will be sent your new German license via mail. It will arrive within four weeks.
Finding the License Plate
The procedure for registering your car in Germany is simple and fast. You'll need to present proof of insurance and pass a technical test. The fees can vary according to the type of vehicle you own. Once the paperwork is completed you are able to take your vehicle out on the road.
You will need to have a front and rear license plate for your car in Germany, which should contain the country code as well as the district code of the place where the vehicle is registered. It's a common guessing game in Germany to see what the district code is from the area code, since the digits that follow the prefix frequently hint at the size of the city or district. The font used on German licence plates is designed to deter fraud and has deliberately large numbers and letters which makes it difficult for a person to duplicate the plate from scratch.
In the majority of cases, you can change a foreign driver's licence for a German one without having to take the theoretical and practical tests again. It depends on the location you reside in and if there is a reciprocal arrangement with Germany. If you are a driver from Australia or South Africa, Tasmania, or Victoria for instance you are able to drive in Germany with your current license without having to take the test.
In Germany automobile owners are also required to have compulsory insurance. The policy must be valid during the time you drive your vehicle in Germany. You can look up quotes online to find the most suitable insurance company for your needs.
In addition to a license and insurance, you will also require a certificate of compliance (COC). You can obtain it through a licensed firm like GetCOC to simplify the registration process and speedier. The service is fast, affordable and provides a COC that's fully valid throughout all EU and EEA countries. It's important to note that you can be fined if your car doesn't have a valid COC.