Exchange a driving license

Exchange foreign driving license in Germany: EU vs. non-EU, examinations, costs and deadlines.

1. 1
   Check if exchange is necessary

   Check whether your driving license needs to be exchanged. EU/EEA driving licenses are generally valid indefinitely, but must be exchanged when they expire. Non-EU driving licenses may only be used for 6 months after registering in Germany.

   💡 The 6-month period begins from the date of registration (establishment of residence), not from the date of entry.
2. 2
   Gather documents

   Collect the required documents: valid driving license (original + translation), identity card/passport, biometric photo, registration certificate and possibly a certificate of authenticity of the driving license from your country of origin.

   💡 The translation must be from a recognized automobile club (e.g. ADAC) or a sworn translator.
3. 3
   Submit application to Führerscheinstelle

   Submit an application for exchange at the Führerscheinstelle (driving license authority) in your place of residence. The fee is approximately 35-45 €. Bring all documents with you. Processing time is usually 4-8 weeks.

   💡 Many Führerscheinstelle only assign appointments online — check your city's website in good time.
4. 4
   Eye test + first aid course

   If an examination is required, you need a current eye test (no more than 2 years old, approximately 7 €) and a certificate from a first aid course (9 instructional units, approximately 30-50 €). The first aid course is valid indefinitely.

   💡 You can get an eye test from any optician within minutes. First aid courses are offered by, among others, DRK, ASB and Johanniter.
5. 5
   Theoretical/practical examination (if necessary)

   For driving licenses from certain non-EU countries, you must take the theoretical and/or practical examination. Check the country list on the BMVI website. Theoretical examination: approximately 23 €, practical examination: approximately 120 €. The theoretical examination is available in 12 languages.

   💡 The theoretical examination can be taken in Arabic, English, French, Greek, Italian, Croatian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Spanish or Turkish.
6. 6
   Pick up driving license

   After successful exchange or passing the examination, pick up your German driving license at the Führerscheinstelle. The foreign driving license is usually retained. You receive an EU card driving license.

   💡 If necessary, request a certified copy of your old driving license before handing it in — this can be helpful for visits to your country of origin.