What needs to be exchanged/converted?

A foreign driver’s license must be converted into a German license no later than six months after
establishing residence in Germany.

EU driver’s licenses do not need to be converted.

Domestic driving entitlement without residence in Germany?

EU-/EEA: Yes

Listed Country: Yes

Third Country: Yes

 

Conversion required after establishing residence in Germany?

EU-/EEA: No

Listed Country: Yes

Third Country: Yes

 

Theoretical and practical test required for conversion?

EU-/EEA: –

Listed Country: No(*)

Third Country: Yes

 

Driving school training required before tests?

EU-/EEA: –

Listed Country: No

Third Country: No

 

Surrender of foreign drivers license required?

EU-/EEA: –

Listed Country: Yes

Third Country: Yes

 

* See Attachment 11 FeV https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/fev_2010/anlage_11.html

Read in English

Exchange of a foreign drivers license from a non-EU country:

There are two types:

Type 1: A foreign driver’s license must be converted into a German license no later than six months after
establishing residence in Germany.

Type 2: EU driver’s licenses do not need to be converted.

Exchange of a Foreign Driving License from a Non-EU Country

Do you have a driving license from a non-EU country and want to drive in Germany? That’s great! With your foreign license, you can drive in Germany for up to six months without any problems.

However, if you establish residency here, it’s important to know: after six months, you must exchange your foreign license for a German EU driving license. This is legally required, because after that period, driving with your old license is no longer permitted — otherwise, you risk driving without a valid license, which can lead to serious consequences. Don’t worry, we’re here to help! To ensure everything goes smoothly, you’ll need to bring the correct documents to the driver’s license office. Here’s a brief overview of what you should
know:

*See Appendix 11 of the German Driving License Ordinance (FeV) for details: https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/fev_2010/anlage_11.html

Which documents do I need at the driver’s license office:

  • Your valid foreign driving license
  • Proof of residence in Germany
  • Identity card or passport
  • Biometric passport photo
  • Proof of first aid training
  • Vision test (or certificate from an ophthalmologist)
  • Certified translation of the foreign driver’s license
  • Processing fees up to €62.40 (depending on effort)

FAQ: Exchanging a Foreign Driving License (Non-EU Countries)

How long can I drive in Germany with my foreign driving license?

If you have a driving license from a non-EU country, you can drive in Germany for up to 6 months—provided you don’t have a registered residency here yet.

What happens if I establish residency in Germany?

Once you have a residence in Germany, you must exchange your foreign driving license for a German EU license within 6 months. Otherwise, driving without a valid license is illegal and can have serious consequences.

What documents do I need to exchange my license?

It depends on your country of origin. Generally, you will need:+

  • Your valid foreign driving license
  • Proof of residency in Germany
  • Personal ID or passport
  • Biometric passport photo, Proof of first aid training, eye test
  • Possibly certified translations or notarizations

We’re happy to advise you on exactly what you need.

Do I need driving lessons before the tests?

No, usually driving school lessons before the test are not mandatory, even for non-EU
countries.

Do I have to surrender my old driving license?

Yes, if you come from a listed country or a non-EU country, you must give up your foreign license when exchanging.