Driving Licence Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

Convert Foreign Driving Licence in Germany 2026 – Costs, Process, Deadlines

If you move to Germany from a non-EU country, you may only drive for 6 months with your foreign licence. After that, you must convert it to a German licence. This guide explains who must convert, how it works, what it costs and what documents you need.

Quick answer: Book an appointment at the driving licence authority (Führerscheinstelle), bring your documents, pay the fee — your new German licence arrives by post in 4–6 weeks. Cost: approx. €45–75.
Big update — 18 August 2026: Ukraine and Montenegro were newly added to the Annex 11 FeV list of countries eligible for conversion without a driving test. Ukrainian driving licences of all classes can now be converted without any examination — just submit your application and documents.

Who must convert their licence?

  • EU/EEA licence: No conversion required — valid in Germany indefinitely
  • Non-EU licence: Mandatory after 6 months of residence in Germany
  • Ukrainian licences: Since 18 August 2026, listed in Annex 11 FeV — convert without a test, for all licence classes
Important: The 6-month period starts from the day you register your address (Anmeldung) — not from your arrival date. Not registered yet? Register first.

Do I need a driving test?

  • No test required (Annex 11 FeV): Ukraine and Montenegro (both added 18 August 2026), Turkey, Russia, Kazakhstan, Serbia, Bosnia and many others — just submit an application
  • Theory test only: Some countries
  • Theory + practical test: Countries without agreements or with poor road safety records

Step by step: how to convert

  • 1
    Book an appointment at the Führerscheinstelle

    Online via your city's portal — search for "ausländischen Führerschein umschreiben". In major cities appointments are often booked weeks in advance — book early!

  • 2
    Gather your documents

    Collect everything in advance — missing documents will result in rejection.

  • 3
    Attend in person

    Applications by proxy are usually not possible — you must appear in person.

  • 4
    Pay the fee and wait

    Pay the fee on the spot. Your new licence is sent by post — processing time 4–6 weeks.

  • 5
    Request a temporary driving permit (optional)

    If you need to drive in the meantime: a temporary permit for approx. €10 — valid until your new licence arrives.

Required documents

  • Valid passport or ID card
  • Biometric passport photo (35 x 45 mm)
  • Registration confirmation or residence permit
  • Original foreign driving licence
  • For some countries: certified translation of the licence
  • If required: eye test certificate (available at any optician)
  • If required: first aid course certificate

Costs 2026

  • Basic fee: approx. €37–75 (varies by state and licence class)
  • Storage fee (non-EU): approx. €15
  • Postage: approx. €6
  • Biometric photo: approx. €10–15
  • Translation (if required): approx. €30–80
  • Temporary permit (optional): approx. €10
Tip: To pay the fees you need a German bank account. Don't have one yet? Open N26 for free in 8 minutes — no branch visit required.

Country-specific notes

Ukraine

Since 18 August 2026, Ukraine is listed in Annex 11 FeV. Ukrainian driving licences of all classes can be converted without any test — just submit an application. Ukrainian war refugees may also continue to drive with their Ukrainian licence for up to 12 months before converting.

Montenegro

Also newly added to Annex 11 FeV on 18 August 2026 — Montenegrin driving licences can now be converted without a test as well.

Russia and Kazakhstan

Listed in Annex 11 FeV — no test required. A certified translation of the licence is needed.

Turkey

Turkish licences are converted without a test. Translation is usually not required as most offices can read Turkish licences directly.

Arabic-speaking countries (Syria, Lebanon, Morocco etc.)

Varies by country — some require a theory test. Translation is mandatory. Check with your local Führerscheinstelle for details.

Frequently asked questions

How long can I drive in Germany with my foreign licence?

6 months after registering your address — EU/EEA licences are valid indefinitely.

How much does it cost?

Approx. €37–75 basic fee plus additional costs — budget €60–110 in total.

Do I get my foreign licence back?

For some countries the original licence is returned to the issuing country. EU licences are usually cancelled and returned to you.

Act now: Book your appointment as early as possible — in cities like Berlin, Munich or Hamburg waiting times of several weeks are common. No German account yet? Open N26 for free.