The car licence
The classic licence for cars up to 3.5 tonnes – with fixed theory dates and lessons that fit your calendar.
Learn more – The car licence
Conversion
Converting a foreign licence
Whether and how your licence is converted depends on the issuing country. Some remain valid, some are converted without a test, others require one. We will tell you what applies to you.
- EU / EEAGenerally remains valid indefinitely
- 6 monthsDeadline for licences from other countries
- DE·EN·TRAdvice in three languages
- Case by caseWhether a test is needed depends on the country
What it involves
Three cases that differ considerably
Licences from the EU and the EEA generally remain valid in Germany. Conversion is usually not compulsory but can be practical.
For licences from other countries a deadline applies: after registering a residence in Germany you may usually continue driving for six months. After that you need a German licence. Whether a test is required depends on how the issuing country is classified – for some, conversion alone is enough; for others a theory test, a practical test or both are required.
- EU and EEA: generally remains valid, conversion optional
- Certain other countries: conversion possible without a test
- Remaining countries: theory and practical test required
- Important: do not let the six-month deadline pass
The process
How we go about it together
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Bring your licence
We look at your document and establish which country issued it and how it is classified.
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Classify your case
We tell you whether conversion alone is enough or whether a test is added – and what deadline applies.
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Gather documents
Translation, eye test, first aid course, photo. We go through the list with you so nothing is missing.
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Submit the application
We prepare the application with you and tell you exactly where and how to submit it.
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Prepare, if needed
If a test is required we prepare you specifically – theory in whichever language suits you.
Documents
What you usually need
Exactly which documents are required depends on the individual case. This list covers the most common requirements.
- The original foreign driving licence
- A certified translation, where required
- Valid ID or passport with proof of registration
- Biometric passport photo
- Eye test and first aid certificate
The deadline is the critical part
Anyone who lets the six-month deadline pass is driving without a valid licence afterwards, with all the criminal consequences that entails. Better to come to us too early than too late.
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Back behind the wheel
Licence sitting in a drawer for years? We get you driving again without a test and without pressure.
Learn more – Back behind the wheelWe handle the paperwork
Application, documents, deadlines – we check everything beforehand so nothing comes back.
Learn more – We handle the paperwork
FAQ
Questions about conversion
Usually not – EU and EEA licences remain valid in Germany. Conversion can still make sense, for example if your document is expiring or you would like a German card format.
Only if a test is prescribed for your issuing country. Even then a full course is not required – you take the test, you do not have to repeat the compulsory lessons. We look together at how much preparation makes sense.
Yes. With conversions in particular that is often decisive, because deadlines and forms are involved where misunderstandings get expensive. Just tell us which language suits you.
On conversion the foreign document is usually withdrawn and returned to the issuing country. In exchange you receive the German card licence.
Bring your licence in
In ten minutes you will know what applies in your case and how much time you have left.