Driving in Germany and exchanging your licence

EU/EEA licences are valid indefinitely in Germany. Non-EU licences can usually be used for six months after registration (Anmeldung), after which a Führerschein-Umtausch (licence exchange) or a German driving test is required.

Key points to understand

EU/EEA drivers: no exchange needed; licence is mutually recognised

EU/EEA drivers: no exchange needed; licence is mutually recognised. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Non-EU drivers: six months from Anmeldung date to drive on a foreign licence; exchange rules vary by country of issue

Non-EU drivers: six months from Anmeldung date to drive on a foreign licence; exchange rules vary by country of issue. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

The Führerscheinstelle (licence authority) handles exchanges — bring your foreign licence, Anmeldung, ID photo, and first-aid certificate

The Führerscheinstelle (licence authority) handles exchanges — bring your foreign licence, Anmeldung, ID photo, and first-aid certificate. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.