Whether you can simply swap your foreign driving license for a German one depends entirely on which country issued it.
EU/EEA Licenses
EU and EEA licenses are automatically valid in Germany. No exchange required. When it expires, renew through normal German procedures.
Countries with Exchange Agreements
Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, and a few others have bilateral agreements allowing direct exchange without a test. Check the KBA (Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt) website for the current list. The process: submit your original license, an official translation, an eye test result, and pay a fee at the Straßenverkehrsamt.
Countries Without Agreements (Including China)
For most countries — including China, the US, India, and Australia — you must pass both the German theoretical and practical driving exams. Your existing license may reduce the mandatory lesson count at the driving school (Fahrschule), depending on the instructor’s assessment.
The German Driving Test
Steps: first aid course (Erste Hilfe Kurs), eye test (Sehtest), theory lessons and computerized theory exam (30 questions on TÜV/DEKRA system), then practical lessons including motorway and night driving, then the practical exam with an examiner. Total cost: typically €1,500–€3,000+ depending on how many lessons you need.
Timeline
Allow 4–6 months from start to license. Study theory via the iFahrschule app.
