Living in Germany and needing a driving license?
Here are your options.
Moving to Germany as a foreigner comes with many adjustments.
Do you already have a driving license from your home country?
If yes, keep reading.
If no, and you would like to get a Georgian driving license before coming to Germany to speed up the process, fill out the form above. If you already live in Germany more than 6 months you wont be able to exchange it anymore legally. But you could use Georgian license outside the European Union.
One of the most important tasks for drivers is exchanging your foreign driving license for a German one.
Germany has strict driving regulations, and depending on your country of origin, your license may not be valid indefinitely. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about exchanging your license, from eligibility to the step-by-step process.
Who Needs to Exchange Their Foreign Driving License in Germany? Rules for EU/EEA license holders.
If you're from an EU or EEA country, you can use your EU or EEA driving license in Germany without needing to exchange it. However, it must still be valid, and if you plan to stay long-term, you may consider an exchange for convenience.
Requirements for Non-EU/EEA Residents
For non-EU/EEA residents, most foreign driving licenses are only valid for the first six months after registering your residence in Germany. Beyond this period, you’ll need to exchange your license to continue driving legally.
For non-EU/EEA residents, most foreign driving licenses are only valid for the first six months after registering your residence in Germany. Beyond this period, you’ll need to exchange your license to continue driving legally.
Driving License Exchange in Germany
Whats the process?
Does an International Driving Permit (IDP) help to avoid it?
No! An international driving permit (IDP) might allow you to drive temporarily (as a tourist), but it does not exempt you from the license exchange requirement if you become a resident. It simply translates your existing license into an internationally recognized format.
Legal Framework for Driving License Exchange in Germany
Germany follows strict guidelines for driving license validity. Non-EU license-holders must comply with local regulations within six months of moving to Germany.
Exceptions exist for countries with reciprocal agreements.
Agreements With Specific Countries
Germany has agreements with certain countries (e.g., some USA states, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea), making the process easier. Citizens of these countries may not need to take a driving test, depending on their state or province of issuance.
You can find the full list and what is required to exchange the license here.
Theoretische Prüfung - theory test
praktische Prüfung - practical test
Nein - not needed
Ja - needed
for example for Albania - no theory and practical test is needed for exchange, except form the AM category (schooter).
Unfortunately the country of Georgia is not in this list for Germany, so you would need to take both exams for exchange but you could skip necessary classes, which would save you a lot of money.
Germany has agreements with certain countries (e.g., some USA states, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea), making the process easier. Citizens of these countries may not need to take a driving test, depending on their state or province of issuance.
You can find the full list and what is required to exchange the license here.
Theoretische Prüfung - theory test
praktische Prüfung - practical test
Nein - not needed
Ja - needed
for example for Albania - no theory and practical test is needed for exchange, except form the AM category (schooter).
Unfortunately the country of Georgia is not in this list for Germany, so you would need to take both exams for exchange but you could skip necessary classes, which would save you a lot of money.
Documents Required for Exchanging a Foreign Driving License
- Original foreign driving license (valid and non-expired)
- Passport or valid identification
- Registration certificate for your city (Meldebescheinigung)
- Recent biometric passport-sized photo
- Application form
- Certified translation of your license (if it’s not in German)
- Proof of driving experience (if applicable)
- Vision test certificate
1. Contact Your Local Fahrerlaubnisbehörde
Your local driver’s license authority (Fahrerlaubnisbehörde) is your first point of contact. Schedule an appointment to begin the application process.
2. Submit Your Application and Documents
Bring all required documents to your appointment. The authorities will verify your eligibility and advise you on the next steps.
3. Take Necessary Tests (If Applicable)
If your country of origin does not have a reciprocal agreement with Germany, you may need to pass theoretical and practical driving exams.
Driving Tests and Exams: When Are Tests Required?
Tests are mandatory for applicants from non-reciprocal countries. For example, if you’re from India or China, you will need to pass both exams - Theory and Practical exam. But if you already hold a license you might be able to skip mandatory theory and practical classes and just take the necessary classes to prepare for the exam.
We recommend to rather take more exam-preparation classes because driving in Germany and driving in another country might differ a lot.
The exam is very strict and on the manual car its even more complicated.
Overview of Theoretical and Practical Tests
- Theoretical Test: A written multiple-choice test covering German road laws and traffic signs.
Your driving school will provide you with an app to learn for the exam.
I personally found the test more complex than in Georgia as it also has some open questions where you need to calculate the braking distance for example.
- Practical Test: A driving test where you demonstrate your skills under a certified examiner’s supervision.
You will be most probably asked to do the following during your city driving test:
- Drive up and down the Autobahn (highway)
- Make a 3 point turn (go backwards off the road in a low-traffic area and than continue going in the opposite direction.
- Backwards-parallel parking between other cars
I had these exam-elements in Berlin in 2024.
Total duration is around 40-50 minutes.
Preparing for the Tests
Enroll in a driving school (Fahrschule) to familiarize yourself with German road laws and driving practices.
Costs and Fees for License Exchange in Germany
- Application Fees: €40-€50
- Translation and Certification: €30-€50
- Vision Test: €6-€10
- Driving School (if required): €700+ (depending on the number of lessons you will take)
Timelines for the License Exchange Process
Typically, the process takes 4-8 weeks, depending on your location and whether you need to take tests. During this period, you may not be allowed to drive legally, so plan accordingly.
If you will need exams it will take longer, based on the availability of test appointments. This can take over 6 months in big cities like Berlin.
Challenges and Common Issues
Language Barriers
All documentation, classes and tests are mostly conducted in German, which may pose challenges for non-German speakers.
Make sure to find a school that has English (or your native language) speaking instructors and that can arrange you a test in English as well.
Theory test can be taken in different languages too.
Problems With Documentation
Incomplete or incorrect documents are the most common reasons for delays. Double-check all requirements before your appointment.
Tips for a Smooth License Exchange Process
- Start early to avoid delays.
- Confirm whether your country has a reciprocal agreement.
- Use a professional translation service if needed.
What Happens if You Don’t Exchange Your License on Time?
Driving with an invalid foreign license beyond the six-month limit is illegal in Germany. You could face fines, legal consequences, or even a driving ban.
Conclusion
Exchanging your foreign driving license for a German one is an essential step for anyone planning to drive long-term in Germany. While the process may seem daunting, understanding the requirements and planning ahead can make it much smoother.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
The process of getting a foreign driving license recognized in Germany can be complex and fraught with challenges.
One of the most common issues is failing to meet specific documentation requirements, such as providing an official translation of the foreign license. Additionally, a lack of awareness about the registration deadlines with the licensing authority in your place of residence can lead to delays or, in some cases, the need to take an entirely new driving test.
To avoid such obstacles, it’s crucial to research the necessary documents, deadlines, and procedures well in advance. Another important step is to check with the relevant authority regarding any special exemptions or bilateral agreements between Germany and the country where the license was issued.
By preparing thoroughly and understanding the requirements, you can successfully navigate the process and avoid these common pitfalls.
One of the most common issues is failing to meet specific documentation requirements, such as providing an official translation of the foreign license. Additionally, a lack of awareness about the registration deadlines with the licensing authority in your place of residence can lead to delays or, in some cases, the need to take an entirely new driving test.
To avoid such obstacles, it’s crucial to research the necessary documents, deadlines, and procedures well in advance. Another important step is to check with the relevant authority regarding any special exemptions or bilateral agreements between Germany and the country where the license was issued.
By preparing thoroughly and understanding the requirements, you can successfully navigate the process and avoid these common pitfalls.
What to Do If Your Driving License exchange Is Not Accepted
If your driving license is not recognized in Germany, it’s essential to understand the specific reasons for the rejection. Begin by reviewing the feedback from the licensing authority and exploring your options for appeal. Document your driving experience and any previous licenses in detail, as this information could support your case.
It may also be helpful to contact a driving school to prepare for any required practical tests or consult a traffic law attorney who can guide you through the appeals process. Additionally, consider whether submitting a new application with supplementary documents or evidence might improve your chances of success.
Keep in mind that the rules vary depending on the country where your license was issued. In some cases, you may need to have your license reissued or adapted to meet German standards. Being proactive and informed can help you navigate these challenges effectively.
It may also be helpful to contact a driving school to prepare for any required practical tests or consult a traffic law attorney who can guide you through the appeals process. Additionally, consider whether submitting a new application with supplementary documents or evidence might improve your chances of success.
Keep in mind that the rules vary depending on the country where your license was issued. In some cases, you may need to have your license reissued or adapted to meet German standards. Being proactive and informed can help you navigate these challenges effectively.
FAQs About Exchanging a Foreign Driving License in Germany
Can I drive in Germany with my foreign license while waiting for the exchange?
Do I need to translate my driving license?
Can I exchange a motorcycle license?
What if I lose my foreign license before the exchange?
Can I drive in Germany with my foreign license while waiting for the exchange?
- Yes, if it is within the six-month validity period, starting from taking up your official residency in Germany
Do I need to translate my driving license?
- Only if your license is not in German or English.
Can I exchange a motorcycle license?
- Yes, motorcycle licenses can also be exchanged following the same procedure.
What if I lose my foreign license before the exchange?
- You’ll need to contact your home country’s licensing authority for a replacement.
Who is it for ideally?
- Generally, Georgia follows Geneva and Vienna conventions, meaning it's valid in all countries which also follow these conventions (all the official countries in the world actually). You can get Vienna and Geneva conventions IDP upon request in Georgia. You can check the list here.
But: validity is limited by your current residency and sometimes the nationality. Always ask local authorities about the validity in your case.
- For some countries, you will need the paperback IDP which you will also get from the traffic police in Georgia after succeeding in the last exam.
Who is this license useful for?
- Perpetual travelers/Digital Nomads = people without any residence who don't stay in one country for more than 185 days; They de-registered themselves from the EU or their country. In this case they can use Georgian DL everywhere in the world.
- Travelers: Many EU residents need a DL for their trips to the USA, Asia, Latin America, Africa or Australia etc. For that it's perfect.
- EU Residents from countries which exchange Georgian license easily without exams or just with a practical exam ( Ireland, Hungary, and some others). Check which documents are required.
- People moving to a new country: Get your DL fast in Georgia and swap it in the new country or use it there for 6 months at least. Many EU countries allow a fast and smooth exchange process without exams for newcomers (Spain, Greece, Ireland, Hungary)
- Lost their driving license: Lost it in your country? At least you'll be able to drive outside.
- Back-up: Many people just want to have a back-up license. Just in case they lose theirs.
- Collection: Some people collect passports and driving licenses. The more the marrier.
- Collect fines: Traveling abroad you can use this license. In case police takes it you will still have your original one.
- Urgency: You need it for a trip abroad super urgently.
- It takes too long in your country or you keep failing
- You need special categories (A, C, D, CE) for international travel
Who is this license NOT for?
- EU residents (more than 6 months) who want to use it all around the EU only who live in a country which doesnt allow exchanging Georgian license. Some EU countries will exchange it without exams even for their residents (Ireland, Hungary etc)
- People who want to use it in their own country in general (except countries with easy exchange process and bilateral agreements with Georgia e.g. Ireland, Hungary)
- People who just want to buy a license online without any exams and learning (no exceptions)
How about exchanging it to my local driving license?
- Most countries in the world ask you to replace your foreign driving license if you just moved there and lived there (official residency) more than 6-12 months (depending on the country).
- If you are becoming a resident of a new country, you need to inform yourself what the process of swapping your license will be. Some countries have mutual agreements but some don't.
- In case of the European Union (EU) you can't use a foreign license in the whole EU after 6 months (or never if you got it after you've stayed in the EU for more than 6 months e.g. if you are born and raised in the EU) - There are some exceptions (listed below)
- If there is a mutual recognition agreement, then you'll be able to swap it without any additional exams (e.g. in Ireland, Hungary)
- double swapping is not allowed! - you cant's exchange Georgian DL to a Hungarian DL and then to a German DL.
- Georgia is not an EU/EFTA/EEA country!
IMPORTANT: this 6-12 months rule for swapping doesn't work if:
- You already lived in that country for more than 6-12 months. In your case these 6 months are already over.
- If You are moving inside the EU (e.g. from Portugal to Germany - it's still inside EU) you need to double check if you count as a new resident. If yes - you might still exchange it to a local one as a new resident.
This rule might theoretically work if:
- You can prove that you've lived in Georgia for at least 185 days.
- You de-register from the EU completely and then register there again. It's not an easy process though, and involves a lot of bureaucracy and taxation consequences, so we don't recommend to do it just for a cheaper driving license.
Swapping worked out! But is my license valid everywhere now?
Some EU/non EU countries might allow you to swap the Georgian license to a local one without exams, if there is a mutual agreement. (eg. Ireland. Hungary etc.)
BUT this new license will have a mark that it was swapped from the Georgian one, so some countries (in the EU like Germany), which would require additional exams to swap, will not accept it if you will move to live there, even if now your driving license is from the EU country! It's up to you to inform yourself about it. ADAC (German company) told us this limitation is only valid for those who claim German residency but for touristic reasons its ok.
We recommend to ask the EU country you plan to travel to about it before traveling and have their confirmation while traveling.
The mark on your swapped license will be: 70 GE
UK vs EU
After Brexit UK is not a part of the EU anymore.
If you are UK resident (with no residency in the EU) - you can use Georgian DL in the EU
If you are EU resident (with no residency in the UK) - you can use Georgian DL in the UK
For EFTA/EEA countries please inform yourself separately from the local authorities.
Germany and other countries which don't have mutual recognition agreements with Georgia
If you plan to move there and use it in such countries as resident, we generally don't recommend you to use our service, unless you plan to de-register and become a digital nomad or you mostly need it for travel outside the EU.
Example of such country is Netherlands.
If there's no mutual agreement and you are freshly arriving to this country, you will have 6 months to take the exams in that country: usually theoretical and practical exam. You will also need to provide documents ensuring validity of your driving license from Georgia.
This apostilled confirmation can be produced in Georgia right after you got your driving license. It's valid for 90 days.
Here you can read more about it for Germany written in an easier language.
Here is the official link to the German authorities document.
For example: that's one of the requirements for swapping:
- You were not a resident of Germany (defined as spending 185 out of 365 days in Germany) at the time you obtained the license.
Benefit for you: You will skip the theory lessons and all the required driving classes.
But you will still need to take some classes to prepare for the exam.
In the end it might be a bit cheaper than doing the German one from Zero but if you calculate all the costs + flying + accommodation for 2-3 weeks, it might be easier to just get it in Germany.
Always ask your local driving school about specific requirements in your country.
If you already lived there for more than 6 months (example: You are German living in Germany all your life or a student who moved there more than 6 months ago), to start the exchange process you'd need to prove residency in Georgia for more than 185 days (with bills, payslips etc.). There's no guarantee that it will work out so we don't recommend this process for you if you don't really live in Georgia for that time.
We don't provide any services connected to residency in Georgia.
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Examples
- If you live in the European Union (EU) for longer than 6 months, I won’t be able to use the Georgian driving license in the EU country you live in AND in the whole EU before exchanging it to an EU license. You can still use it everywhere outside the EU (e.g. America, Africa, Asia etc.). Some EU countries allow you to exchange this license without exams. (Ireland, Hungary etc.)
- If you are moving from EU to EU, e.g. Moving from Germany to Spain, you need to check in Spain if they count you as a new resident or not. Spain allows to exchange Georgian driving license if you got it before becoming a resident in Spain.
- E.g. if you lived your whole life in Germany, the regulation of the 6 month use does not apply to you, as you are not a newcomer.
- If you lived in Serbia (non EU), got the Georgian license and then moved to Germany (EU), then it works for 6 months in the EU/Germany and need to exchange it during that time.
- EFTA countries (Norway, Lichtenstein, Iceland etc.) are not a part of the EU and have different regulations. Check with your local driving authority. Mostly if you are only resident in an EFTA country and don't hold any other residency you'll be able to use the license outside of your country of residence.
"But I read it online that I can use it for 6 months in my country..."
The exchange of the Georgian license is not guaranteed in your own country. You need to check with a driving school/local responsible authority in the area where you plan to exchange it.
Don't rely only on an online search, because it often does not show all the nuances and is mostly meant for foreigners.
Many people send us links saying "I read this online and I can use it for 6 months here in my country I lived my whole life in".
We read it for them and it (as always) means that a NEW PERSON who just arrived to the country can use their foreign driving license for 6 months and can exchange it in that time.
It doesn't apply to a person who is a resident for more than 6 months already.
Exceptions
There are some countries in the EU which have bilateral exchange agreements with Georgia. There will be more in the future and regulations often change.
We still suggest you to double-check with the relevant authority about your specific situation.
EU Countries where a swap without exams might be possible even if you were a resident in that country when you got the Georgian license:
Ireland:
Read the full article about it HERE.
For Ireland residents we recommend to inform yourself here
Georgia is one of the recognized states and their official Instagram account replied us that you can also do it while being a resident in Ireland.
We strongly recommend you to ask them about it here.
Below you can find screenshots or our communication with them on Instagram, which we base this information on.
Remember that even if you manage to exchange Georgian license for the Irish one without exams, you won't be able to legally use this new Irish license in countries which require exams to exchange it (e.g. Germany) if you claim residency there.
E.g. if you plan to move to Germany and become a resident there, they might not accept this exchanged license.
But its ok to use it there for touristic reasons if you dont live there, even if you are EU resident from another country.
Here is this German law.
Inform yourself about it before deciding to use our service.
Hungary offers a quick and easy exchange process as well and we have students who exchanged it in Hungary already.
IDP - International Driving Permit exceptions globally
Here you can find more info about the IDP.
Always inform yourself about driving license requirements when planning your trip abroad!
(Information was taken from this German website. It's a 100% quotation)
"Where else abroad are there additional exceptions to consider regarding the international driving license?
In most cases, you are on the safe side if you can present an international driving license during a traffic stop outside Europe. The responsible authority can thus verify your driving authorization, and you are allowed to continue driving legally.
However, there are also countries where additional laws and regulations apply to foreign drivers. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to inform yourself about these before your trip. Below are some important exceptions and additional regulations for driving abroad:
- Australia: In Australia, foreign drivers often encounter complications and misunderstandings during police checks and when renting cars. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to carry all necessary documents for driving abroad.
- Bolivia: You must have the international driving license stamped by a local authority before you can use it legally.
- Brazil: In some cases, a temporary national driving license document is issued, which should be used instead of the international driving license.
- China: In addition to the international driving license, you must take a driving test locally to be allowed to drive.
- Indonesia: You are only allowed to drive a rental car in Bali. It is not permitted in other regions, even with an international driving license.
- Japan: The Japanese authorities require a certified translation of your national driving license. The cost for this is about 20 Euros.
- Qatar: In Qatar, the international driving license is only valid for seven days. After that, a visitor driving permit must be obtained.
- Kenya: Here, an international driving license is only valid for three months.
- New Zealand: The validity of the international driving license here is limited to 12 months. Additionally, you should always carry your national driving license in New Zealand. Police checks often explicitly ask for it.
- Sri Lanka: It is also required here to apply for a temporary national driving permit. An international driving license is not sufficient.
- United Arab Emirates: In general, only the national driving license is required during checks. However, there is an exception in Abu Dhabi: an international driving license is mandatory for foreign drivers here.
- USA and Canada: Police checks are known to be very strict here. Particularly in the states of Kentucky, Georgia, and Florida, there are often issues with the authorization of foreign drivers. It is therefore strongly recommended to ensure you have all necessary documents with you on every drive and to keep them readily accessible to show immediately if needed.
- Vietnam: In Vietnam, you can only rent cars with a chauffeur; you are not allowed to drive yourself, even with an international driving license."
Quotation end.
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Closing Disclaimer:
Every country has different regulations so it's impossible for us to keep up with all changes and all the updates, thus information provided here doesn't have a legally binding character.
Please inform yourself from your country of residence/destination about any regulations that might hinder you from using/exchanging the Georgian driving license in that country or abroad.
We hope now it became clearer for you!
if you still have questions, feel free to text us on Instagram.
IG: @driving_license_urgent
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