How to Convert Driving License in Germany for Foreigners

Can a foreigner get a driver's license in Germany?

A foreigner can get a German driver's license if they are staying permanently or your foreign license has expired. You must take the German driver's license test and meet other requirements to obtain your driver's license. 

However, foreigners staying temporarily in Germany can use their international driver's license for six months. If your stay extends beyond that, you must get a German driver's license. 

Which driving license in Germany do you need?

The type of driving license you will need in Germany depends on the duration of your stay and the vehicle you want to drive.  If you stay temporarily, a foreign driver's license may be valid for up to six months. But if you will stay permanently, you need a driving license in Germany.

For example, you need a Category B German driving license to drive passenger cars. This allows you to drive vehicles with a mass of up to 3,500 kg. 

However, for towing a trailer, you need a Category BE driving license in Germany, depending on the trailer's weight. 

Here's a list of all the German driver's licenses and when you need them;

• Category B: This German driving license allows you to drive passenger cars, light vans, and trucks weighing up to 3,500 kg. To obtain this license, you must pass a practical and theoretical driving test in Germany. Additionally, this license is valid for 15 years.
• Category AM: This covers two-wheel mopeds, three-wheel mopeds, and light quadricycles with a design speed of less than 45 km/h.
• Category A, A1 & A2: This German driver's license covers motorcycles and three wheel motor vehicles with a maximum design speed of more than 45 km/h.
• Category B with code 96: Allows you to drive a tractor vehicle of category B in combination with trailers. The maximum authorized mass of the trailer can exceed 750 kg. However, the maximum mass of the vehicle combination cannot exceed 4,250 kg.
• Category BE: Allows you to drive a tractor vehicle of Category B with a trailer or semi-trailer. The maximum authorised mass of the trailer is over 750 kg but not more than 3,500 kg.
• Category C1: This category covers driving licenses in Germany for motor vehicles with a maximum mass of not more than 7,500 kg. They must also be designed to carry no more than eight passengers and the driver.
• Category C1E: Driving license for tractor vehicle of Category B in combination with a trailer or semi-trailer with a maximum authorized mass exceeding 3,500. It also covers tractor vehicles of Category C1 in combination with a trailer or semi-trailer with a maximum authorized mass exceeding 750 kg. When combined, the maximum mass must not exceed 12,000 kg.
• Category C: Covers motor vehicles (except those of Categories AM, A1, A2 and A). The maximum mass can exceed 3,500 kg and is built for not more than eight passengers, including the driver.
• Category CE: Allows you to drive a tractor vehicle of Category C in combination with a trailer or semi-trailer with a maximum authorised mass exceeding 750 kg.
• Category D1: This driving license is valid for motor vehicles (except those of Categories AM, A1, A2 and A). They must be designed with a carriage for no more than 16 passengers, including the driver.
• Category D1E: Allows you to drive a tractor vehicle of Category D1 in combination with a trailer with a maximum authorized mass exceeding 750 kg.
• Category D: For driving motor vehicles (except those of Categories AM, A1, A2 and A). These vehicles must be constructed for the carriage of more than 8 passengers and the driver.
• Category DE: Driving license for a tractor vehicle of Category D in combination with a trailer with a maximum authorized mass exceeding 750 kg.
• Category T: For tractors with a maximum design speed not exceeding 60 km/h. It also covers driving self-propelled machines or mixer wagons with a maximum design speed not exceeding 40 km/h.
• Category L: Allows you to drive tractors designed for agricultural or forestry and used for such purposes. The maximum design speed must not exceed 40 km/h.

Sometimes, you might need a test certificate instead of a driver's license. This includes driving a two-wheel, single-seater motorized cycle not exceeding 25 km/h (motor-assisted bicycle; special seats for children under seven may be fitted).

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Eligibility to drive in Germany

To be eligible to drive in Germany, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid German or foreign driver's license. 

Your foreign driver's license must also meet the age and vehicle requirements for what you intend to drive in Germany. 

If you are from a non-EU/EEA state, you should provide an international driving permit with your local driver's license. Here's what you must know for different scenarios;

Differences between EU/EEA and foreign licenses

In Germany, your foreign driver's license is valid and doesn’t need conversion if you are from an EU/EEA state.  This means you can drive any motor vehicle your license allows until it expires. After expiration, you must request a German driver’s license to continue driving your car in Germany. 

In contrast, foreigners from non-EU/EEA states can use their foreign driver's license for only six months after registering in Germany. At the end of the six-month validity period, you must convert it (called Umschreibung). 

Whether you’ll need to take a theoretical or practical German driver's license test depends on your home country. Some countries, like the US, have full and partial exemption agreements for the theoretical and practical tests. 

For example, if you obtained your driver's license in Connecticut, you are exempt from the practical driving test in Germany.  

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Validity periods and conditions for a foreign driver's license in Germany 

Foreign licenses are valid for six months post-residency; extensions of up to 12 months may be granted in exceptional cases. 

For example, if you are a US citizen staying for less than a year, you can legally drive in Germany for up to 364 days on your domestic driver’s license. 

However, you must visit the local driver’s registration office (Führerscheinstelle) before your six-month validity expires. At the office, you must notify them that you intend to stay in Germany longer than six months but within a year, and must continue using your US driver's license. 

When going to the driver’s registration office (Führerscheinstelle), you should have a driver's license translation and proof that you are leaving the country before a year has passed.

Other countries might have unique conditions beyond the standard six-month validity. You should also remember that driving without a valid license beyond this period is illegal and subject to penalties.

Pro tip: Start the conversion process early. Some local offices have long appointment wait times, and you'll likely need a certified translation of your license to proceed.

How to convert an international driver's license for Germany

The process often involves registering your address, submitting the documents, taking a German driver's license test, and driving lessons if necessary. Here’s an overview of each step:

Step 1: Register your address (Anmeldung)

Before converting your foreign driver's license in Germany, you must be in the country and have taken up residence. 

So, the first step is to register your residence with the local registration office (Bürgeramt). You will need to provide a 

• Valid passport or national ID
• Completed anmeldung form (Anmeldeformular)
• Confirmation from your landlord (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)
• Rental contract (sometimes requested)
• Appointment confirmation (if booking is required)

Upon approval, you will receive the registration certificate (Anmeldebestätigung), a required document for your license conversion.

Step 2: Determine German driver license requirements based on your country

Germany has reciprocal agreements with countries that exempt you from some requirements. You should check if your country has a reciprocal agreement with Germany and how it affects your requirements. 

For example, if you are a US citizen, you can enjoy a partial or complete German driver's license test exemption option when converting your driver's license in Germany for foreigners. Here’s a fact sheet on the requirements for different countries. 

Step 3: Complete a First Aid course

Enroll in a certified first aid course (Erste-Hilfe-Kurs), as it's mandatory for most foreign applicants. These usually take 6–9 hours and cover basic emergency procedures.

Step 4: Undergo an eye test

An eye test is mandatory for foreigners converting their driving license in Germany. You can take this at most opticians or certified testing centers. The results are submitted with your application.

Step 5: Consider taking driving lessons in Germany 

If you already have a driver's license, taking a driving lesson isn’t mandatory. However, taking driving lessons in Germany can help you familiarise yourself with German traffic rules and increase your chances of passing the required tests. You can take the lesson at an authorised driving school. 

Step 6: Visit the local driver's license office (Führerscheinstelle)

Book an appointment at the local driver's license office to submit your application and necessary documents for license conversion. 

Ensure you book the appointment early, as slots can fill up fast. At the appointment, you’ll submit all your documents, including your foreign driver's license translation, ID, proof of registration, and course certificates.

Step 7: Await processing

Your application will be processed after submission, which may take 2 to 4 months, depending on the region in Germany.

Step 8: Pick up your German driving license for foreigners 

Once approved, you’ll get a notification to collect your new driving license in Germany. Bring your ID and any requested documents to the pickup appointment.

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Document requirements for converting a foreign driver's license in Germany 

If you are converting your foreign drivers license in Germany, you need to provide 

• A valid identity card, an electronic residence permit (eAT), or passport with a current registration confirmation
• a recent biometric passport photo (35 x 45 millimeters)
• a certificate of participation in a first aid training course
• an eye test (not older than 2 years)
• The appointment confirmation if the application is not submitted through the driving school
• A certified translation of your foreign driver's license in German.

Additional document requirements

You might have to provide additional documents for some driver's license categories. This includes 

• Eye test certificate not older than 2 years for classes AM, A1, A2, A, B, BE, L, or T
• Certificate of medical examination of eyesight. It must not be older than 2 years and only for classes C, C1, CE, C1E, D, D1, DE, D1E.
• Certificate of physical and mental fitness. Not older than 1 year if applying for classes C, C1, CE, C1E, D, D1, DE, D1E.
• Functional and performance test. Not older than 1 year if you are applying for a German driver's license in classes D, D1, DE, and D1E.
• Certificate of Good Conduct for classes D, D1, DE, and D1E): The certificate of good conduct (certificate type "O," for submission to authority) is requested at the same time as the application (subject to a fee of €13). It can only be requested at a registry office; it is not possible at the driver's license office.
• If applicable, proof of basic qualification for professional drivers. If you want to apply for driving license classes C/D and also use them for the driver qualification certificate (FQN)

Different regions in Germany have specific requirements for driver's license applications. For that information, check the German website.

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Certified drivers license translation for foreigners in Germany

The foreign driver's license and other non-German documents must be translated as part of the requirement for driving in Germany. The certified drivers license translation must be done by bodies designated by the Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport. 

This includes

• Motoring organisations;
• Court-appointed and certified interpreters and translators
• German diplomatic missions
• Masters of German sea-going ships
• Official agencies of the state that issued the driving license
• Internationally recognised motoring organisations of the state that issued the driving license

How can Translayte help you translate drivers license?

At Translayte, we provide high-quality certified translation services that meet German authorities' requirements. We offer accurate and fast services at competitive market rates if you need a certified drivers license translation for Germany. 

With a 4.6-star rating from over 9000 customer reviews on Trustpilot, here’s how we can help

• Access to court-appointed German translators with experience translating driver's licenses and other documents
• Same-day delivery with a timeline of 12-24 hours
• Easy online ordering system supporting different file formats
• Competitive and transparent translation rates start from $25 per page.
• Multi-step quality assurance process that ensures you receive high-quality document translation services with 100% acceptance

Request a free quote to get an estimate to translate a driver's license and supporting documents in Germany. 

Tests and training for converting driving license in Germany

If you are converting your driver's license in Germany as a foreigner, there are some tests and training to complete. This includes 

• Theory test (Theorieprüfung)
• Practical driving test (Praktische Prüfung)
• First Aid course (Erste-Hilfe-Kurs)
• Eye test (Sehtest)
• Optional driving lessons (Fahrstunden)

Note: Not all tests are mandatory for foreigners converting their driver's license to German. For example, countries like the US have exemptions for the practical and theoretical driving tests, depending on the state. 

However, if you are from a country without this reciprocal agreement, you must complete the practical and theoretical test before applying for a German driver's license. 

Additionally, the test is available in multiple languages, including English. 

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How much does it cost to get a driver's license in Germany?

The cost of converting a driver’s license in Germany is about €1500 to €4000, depending on your situation. Foreigners from EU/EEA countries or those with reciprocal agreements with Germany, like the USA, might spend less. These foreigners are exempt from participating in theoretical and practical driving tests, reducing your spending on converting your foreign driver's license. 

Here’s a breakdown of the expenses;

• Registration fee: €100 – €250
• Learning material: €90 – €120
• Driving license application: €40 – €70
• Theoretical exam: €60 – €150
• Practical exam: €150 – €250.
• First aid course: €40 - €70
• Eye test (€5–€8)
• Drivers license translation costs: $50 - $300

Depending on individual requirements, total costs can range from €1,500 to €3,500. Budgeting for unforeseen expenses such as potential exam retakes is advisable, as each failed attempt can add approximately €500 to the total cost.

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German drivers license for foreigners processing time

Getting your driving license in Germany converted isn’t instant.  Timelines vary from 2 - 6 months, depending on where you live and your situation.

• Due to high demand, major cities like Berlin, Munich, or Frankfurt expect processing times of 6–10 weeks.
• If all documents are in order, it may take 2–4 weeks in smaller towns or less busy areas.
• If your home country requires testing, the process can take 3–6 months.

Factors that may affect processing speed

• Appointment availability at the citizens office (Bürgeramt) or drivers license office (Führerscheinstelle)
• Missing documents or delays in submitting required paperwork (e.g., certified translations)
• Need for tests (theory or practical) and availability of exam dates.
• Region-specific bureaucracy, as each German state, may follow slightly different procedures.
• Language barriers, especially if you need forms or support in English

Receiving your German license

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a notification (by post or email) from the drivers license office (Führerscheinstelle). You'll then need to book a pickup appointment. On the day, bring your ID and any documents they request to collect your new German driving license.

In many cases, the German authorities will keep your original foreign license when they issue the German one, especially if it's from a non-EU country. Ask your local office in advance so you’re prepared.

Tips for a smooth conversion process

• Ensure there are no missing or incomplete documents in your application
• Check your specific country’s requirements to avoid delays
• Attend all mandatory courses, like the First Aid course or vision test
• Book your registration (Anmeldung) or citizens office (Bürgeramt) appointment early
• Use court-appointed translators to translate driver's licenses into German.
• Plan and stay organised to avoid frustrating delays in converting your driving license in Germany for foreigners.

Need a foreign drivers license translation in Germany? Request a free quote to get started.