How to get Driving Licence in Germany - Starting from Scratch

Obtaining a driving licence in Germany is an essential step for anyone planning to drive in the country. Whether you're a new resident or someone starting from scratch, the process might seem overwhelming at first. However, with the right guidance, it can be a straightforward journey. In this blog post, we'll discuss the benefits of having a driving licence in Germany and also a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Benefits of having a German Driving Licence

EU Recognition: Valid across all EU/EEA countries, no need for an exchange or IDP.

High Standards: Rigorous training ensures excellent driving skills and road safety awareness.

Long Validity: Licenses are valid for 15 years, with simple renewal processes.

International Acceptance: Widely recognized, often eliminating the need for an IDP globally.

Ease of Car Rentals: Simplifies renting cars in Germany, the EU, and many other regions.

Job Opportunities: Essential for many roles in logistics, sales, and other fields.

Steps to complete:

Who don't need a driving licence in Germany. People who already have a driving licence from EU States / EEA  / UK do not need it.  

You can follow in this order, that is recommended.

• Search for a driving school nearby and talk to the instructor that you need to have a driving licence. Provide him required documents and you'll get a contract with the driving school instructor.
• Theory Classes First: You must complete the mandatory 14 theory classes at a certified driving school (Fahrschule).
• Obtain a First Aid Certificate (Erste-Hilfe-Kurs) - Book from this Link.
• Take an Eye Test (Sehtest) - You can get it FREE if you go to Fielmann (Ask that you need "Sehtest für Führerschein".
• Get Translation of your driving licence in German from a certified translator.  
• Passport size Photo.

Next STEP:

Google search ( Fuhrerscheinstelle followed by your city name ) and find driving licence office in your area -  Take an appointment, or in some cases, there are open timings/ days, where you can go without appointment. 

Follow the steps in the driving licence office.

1. Take original ID CARD / PASSPORT (if you are from outside Germany) with you.
2. Driving School Contract.
3. New City Registration Certificate issued within the last 3 months.
4. First Aid completion course.
5. Eye Test confirmation / Sehtest.
6. Passport size photo.
7. Translation of Driving Licence in German.
8. Note: Check your respective city driving licence website * for example in my case it was Erfurt, and see if an additional document is required also.

After getting registered with your city driving licence office.

Start preparing for Theory Test. 

Driving School instructors have their applications to learn for theory test. 

My recommendation for cheap and easy way to learn is to use an Application on Google Playstore for Android Devices / An Application for Apple iOS devices.

Ask your driving school teacher to apply for your Theory Test Exam.

When you are sure to pass the theory test after learning from the app, contact your instructor to register you for next available dates for - Theory Test. Often this exam is conducted by DEKRA / TUV in Germany.

SECTION: Practical German Driving Test

After passing the computer-based theory test, you can proceed to the practical driving lessons.Your driving instructor will provide you practical driving lessons. 

Mandatory practical lessons include specific driving scenarios to ensure comprehensive training:

1. 12 Special Driving Lessons (minimum):
   • 5 Autobahn (highway) lessons
   • 4 Rural (country roads) lessons
   • 3 Night driving lessons
2. Additional practice lessons:
• The number of regular lessons varies depending on your progress and the driving instructor's assessment of your readiness.

After practical classes, you have to ask your driving school teacher to apply for your Practical Test Exam. This exam is also conducted by DEKRA / TUV in Germany.

--- Costs Breakdown --- in Erfurt (Thuringia), Germany ---- in end of 2023

Führerschein app                       10€

First Aid                                      55€     ( can vary )

school                                        200€    ( can vary )

Translation                                 30€ - 70€     ( can vary )

Führerscheinstelle                     45€ ( can vary)        

Theory Test Class                      45€ ( can vary )

Practical class of 1.5 hour         120€ ( in different cities - different rates )

Pictures                                     10€ ( can vary)

Theory Prüfung                         25€

Praktische Prufung                   130€ + car of instructor 70€ - 100€

For a new person, I'd say you must have a budget of 2000€ - 3000€ in mind.

That's all for it.