How to get a German driver's liscense
Since April 1993, most U.S. citizens (and those from other non-EU countries) have been required to take both written and driving tests to get a German driver's license, as a U.S. driver's license is only valid here for one year. The German Federal Ministry of Transport has entered into various informal agreements with individual U.S.states regarding mutual recognition of driver's licenses; your state's agreement determines what you have to do to apply for a license. In July 1996, testing requirements for a few states were waived. As negotiations continue, requirements for other states may change in the near future. If you're from Arizona, Delaware, Kansas, South Dakota and Utah, you are exempt from taking written and road tests, but must still transfer your license. Alabama, Missouri, North Carolina, and Oregon license holders must take a written test, but not a road test. The test, -which is quite difficult, -may be taken in English, but you will have to know certain phrases in German. Drivers from the U.S. should contact a local driving school, which will provide information for your state. They will also help you with the necessary paperwork, provide study materials and registration for the theoretical and driving tests. You do not have to take lessons at the school but you may wish to, just to become familiar with the German rules of the road. The Münchner Ring Fahrschule (tel. 36 30 31), has English- speaking personnel at several of their locations, and they have put together a handy list to take you through the license transfer process step by step. Some of the documents you'll need are: o official identification, such as a passport. o a residency registration certificate (Anmeldebestätigung) from the Einwohnermeldeamt (registrar's office). o your original U.S. license and a certified translation. This may be done at the ADAC. o a statement that your license is still valid. o two recent photos (35mm x 45mm). o an eye test (you can get one from an optician). o proof of a first-aid course. Ask at the Red Cross or a driving school. Once you have fulfilled these requirements, you can submit your application at the Driver's License Bureau(Führerscheinstelle), Eichstätter Str. 2, 80686 München, tel. 578 41. Be aware that they may not be able to speak English with you. Start early, as it can take up to eight weeks after registration at the driving school before a license is issued. Total costs (not including lessons) may average several hundred marks. If you've missed the one-year deadline, you still have up to two more years to transfer your license, but you may not drive in Germany during that time. After that, you have to take the standard number of theoretical and practical driving lessons required of a first-time applicant. This is based on the assumption that you have had no driving experience for at least two years.