Driver's Licence Conversion

A foreign driving licence is only valid in Germany for a limited time. After moving you usually have six months during which you may drive on your old licence, after which you need a German licence. How simple the conversion is depends entirely on the country of issue, and that is exactly what this tool works out for you.

For EU and EEA licences it is easiest: they remain valid and are exchanged without any test when needed. For many third countries, Anlage 11 of the Driving Licence Ordinance (FeV) governs how conversion works. Some countries are fully listed and allow a direct conversion without a test, for others you only take the theory test, for others theory and practice, and some countries are not listed at all, meaning a full new test like a first-time learner.

Because the USA is federally organised, it even comes down to the individual state there. The tool accounts for this and lets you pick the US state after selecting the country, so the assessment is correct. For each country you get the concrete legal basis from Anlage 11 FeV.

Once your result is set, the tool shows a complete cost breakdown: administrative fee, certified translation of your licence, eye test, first-aid course, passport photos and - if needed - theory and practical tests plus estimated driving lessons. So you get a realistic picture of what is coming, instead of being surprised by hidden items.

On top come the required documents and the step-by-step process: from the certified translation through the application at the licensing authority to picking up your German licence. The tool also reminds you of the crucial six-month deadline, because letting it lapse can cost you the option of a direct conversion.

A handy extra is the licence class conversion: it shows which German class corresponds to which foreign class, so you know what you may drive in the end. A quick selection with common countries of origin fills the fields in one click. The tool is not an official decision, but it gives you clear orientation in advance.