eu driving license in germany

Driving in Germany with an EU License Author: AnyGen Publication date: 2025-12-08 Overview This guide summarizes how EU driving licenses are recognized in Germany, when you must transfer your license, and what documents and steps are required. It is organized for clarity based on the information you provided. General Validity If your stay in Germany is temporary, your EU driving license is typically valid. After you take up residence in Germany, your EU license remains valid until its printed expiration date. You must hold a valid domestic (EU) driving license—an international driving permit alone is not sufficient. When Transfer Is Required Transferring (exchanging) your EU driving license to a German license is necessary in the following situations: Expiration approaching: If the license itself or certain categories are expiring—particularly vocational categories C1, C1E, C, CE, D1, D1E, D, DE. Non‑harmonized categories: If your license includes non‑harmonized categories and you intend to drive those vehicle types in Germany. Categories with Limited Validity in Germany For categories in the C and D groups (including their subcategories and trailer entitlements), the German validity period applies, even if your foreign license shows a longer period. Requirements for Transferring Your License Prepare the following documents and proofs for the application: Valid ID or passport, with current registration confirmation (Meldebescheinigung) if applicable Current biometric photo (45 mm × 35 mm, portrait, frontal view) Your valid EU driving license Translation if the license is issued in Greek or Cyrillic Proof of how long you have held the license (if not clear on the card) Confirmation of first registration in Germany (not needed if you have been registered in Munich since arrival) For C and D classes: vision examination certificate and medical examination confirming health suitability Where to Apply Apply through your local Fahrerlaubnisbehörde (driving license authority). In Munich, applications can be submitted in writing or online. Fees and Processing Time Fees vary by municipality. As an example, Munich’s fee is around €37.50 (without a probationary period). Processing time may be approximately eight weeks. Additional Information If your foreign license needs to be checked for authenticity, it may take two to three weeks, and you might need to surrender your license during this time. You must hand in your foreign driving license upon receiving the German license. Licenses issued since 19 January 2013 are generally valid for 15 years. All German licenses issued before 19 January 2013 must be exchanged by 19 January 2033; the exact deadline depends on the license issue date or your date of birth.