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Obtaining a German driving license

Before driving a car in Germany, you should make sure that the license you hold is considered valid. Below, you will find a list of steps you need to take before getting behind the wheel of a car. Also, please note that some traffic violations or the failure to pay fines can result in the loss of your license.

The first step towards obtaining a German driving license is to apply to a driving school (Fahrschule).

Valid licences from EU member states are also valid in Germany. Holders of these licences may also obtain a German driving licence without taking a test. There is no time limit for the application.

Holders of driving licenses from certain countries may obtain a German driving license without having to take a test, within three years of arrival in Germany. To find out which countries this covers, contact the Driving License Authority at the Citizens Service Center (Phone: 0228 776677).

Driving licenses from all other countries are valid for six months in Germany if the holder has been granted temporary residence. Drivers must apply for a German license. A first aid course and an eye test are required, in addition to written and road tests. Driving lessons are not mandatory.

Drivers who need to complete a first-aid course to obtain their driving license in Germany will find an English offer at Johanniter Bonn.
For more information, please visit

 Information about first-aid-coures at Johanniter Bonn (opens in a new tab)

Making an appointment:

Please contact the Driving License Authority at the Citizens Service Center, Stadthaus, Berliner Platz 2, (Phone: 0228 776677) for further information and appointments.

How to make an appointment

Members of the diplomatic corps and relatives:

Special rules apply to members of foreign diplomatic corps, their relatives and families. Holders of a valid driving license can obtain a German license without taking a test. Drivers should apply within six months of arrival in Germany. Please contact the Driving License Authority at the Citizens Service Center (Phone: 0228 776677) for further information and appointments.