License application
Here's how to apply for your driver's license
Applying for a driver’s license in Berlin is not that complicated – as long as you know what to focus on. Whether you’re starting from scratch or want to convert a foreign driver’s license: Prepare well and gather all the necessary documents. With some planning and patience, you’ll soon pass your driving test successfully.
In this guide, you’ll find all the important information and a step-by-step explanation of how to proceed. We’ll show you what requirements you need to meet, which documents you need, and what the exact process looks like.
Requirements for beginner drivers
The minimum age for obtaining a Class B (car) driver’s license is 18 years.
For accompanied driving training (BF17), you can obtain your driver’s license at the age of 17, but you need an experienced accompanying person who is at least 30 years old.
Requirements for foreign driver's licenses
Foreign driver’s licenses can only be used in Germany for six months. After that, you’ll be considered a pedestrian.
That’s why it’s important to submit your application for conversion as early as possible. You can do this from day one in Germany, provided you have a residence permit or registered address. Of course, your license must still be valid. If it has already expired and you have registered your residence in Germany, it can no longer be converted.
As a rule, you must apply for a German driving license within six months of moving to Germany. Depending on the country your license was issued in, you may also be required to take a theoretical and/or practical test – especially if the traffic regulations differ significantly from those in Germany.
Required documents
If you want to apply for a driver’s license – whether you’re a beginner or converting a foreign license – you’ll need certain documents. You can find out exactly which ones here.
Documents for first-time drivers
You need a valid document for identification.
The photo must meet the requirements of the German authorities.
The eye test can be done at pharmacies or by ophthalmologists and is necessary to ensure that you have sufficient vision to drive a vehicle safely.
You must complete a first aid course, which is usually offered at special driving schools and is required in order to apply for a driver’s license.
You need a certificate confirming that you reside in Berlin.
Conversion of a foreign driver’s license
You must present your foreign driver’s license, and in many cases also a certified translation.
You need a valid document for identification.
The photo must meet the requirements of the German authorities.
You must provide proof that you are registered as a resident in Berlin.
For some countries, it is necessary to repeat the eye test or provide a medical certificate to confirm your fitness to drive.
The process of applying for a driver’s license
Anyone who wants to obtain a driver’s license in Berlin or convert an existing one must go through several formal and practical steps. To ensure nothing is overlooked, it’s helpful to be familiar with the process from the very beginning. On this page, you’ll find a clear overview of what to expect – from the initial registration to the successful completion.
Registration at the driver’s license office
To submit your application, you first need to visit the driver’s license office in Berlin. It is responsible for handling all matters related to driver’s licenses.
There are several driver’s license offices in Berlin, so it’s recommended to book an appointment online in advance to avoid long waiting times.
Make sure to bring all the documents mentioned above to prevent any delays in the process.
Registration with a driving school
As a first-time driver, the next step is to register with a driving school. The training consists of two parts:
Theory lessons: At the driving school, you must complete a certain number of lessons covering traffic rules and regulations. You’ll also learn the basics such as traffic signs and proper behavior on the road.
Practical driving lessons: Alongside the theory lessons, you’ll begin practical driving lessons where you’ll learn to drive under the guidance of a driving instructor. Depending on your progress, you’ll need a varying number of lessons.
The exams
Theory Test: After completing your theory lessons, you’ll need to take a theory test. The questions focus on traffic rules, road safety, and behavior in traffic.
Practical Test: Once you’ve completed all required driving lessons and passed the theory test, the practical driving test follows. This is usually conducted by an examiner, preferably from TÜV.
Conversion of a foreign driver’s license
If you want to convert your foreign driver’s license, the requirements depend on your country of origin.
EU/EEA licenses: In most cases, you can directly convert your EU or EEA license without having to take a test.
Non-EU/EEA licenses: For licenses from non-EU countries, you may be required to take a theory and/or practical test. This depends on the country your license was issued in and whether Germany has an agreement with that country.
Countries exempt from testing: For some countries, you can convert your license without any additional tests. This usually applies to many European countries and those with comparable licensing standards.
Costs
The cost of applying for your driver’s license in Berlin can vary, but in general, the following expenses apply:
Driving school fees: The cost of a driver’s license depends on the number of driving lessons. For talented learners, it starts at around €2,000. Since fixed prices are legally prohibited (anyone offering them is acting illegally), the price can vary greatly. For those who struggle, it can easily cost twice as much. The number of lessons — and thus the quality of training — is crucial. This includes both theory and practical lessons. The more time you take with either, the more expensive it gets.
Exam fees: The theory test costs around €20–30, and the practical test is approximately €100–150.
Driver’s license application: The application at the driver’s license office costs about €40–50.
Additional costs: Eye tests, first aid course, and photos also incur extra charges.
Tips for a successful application
Prepare early: Make sure to gather all your documents in time and don’t forget any important paperwork.
Study regularly: It’s helpful to review the material consistently during the theory lessons so that you’re well prepared for the exam.
Overcome test anxiety: If you’re feeling nervous, talk to your driving instructor and ask for additional practice sessions. This will help you build confidence.
The process of applying for a driver’s license
Anyone who wants to obtain a driver’s license in Berlin or convert an existing one must go through several formal and practical steps. To make sure nothing is overlooked, it’s helpful to know the process from the very beginning. On this page, you’ll find a clear overview of what to expect – from the initial registration to successful completion.
Registration at the driver’s license office
To submit the application, you first need to visit the driver’s license office in Berlin. It is responsible for handling all matters related to driver’s licenses.
There are several driver’s license offices in Berlin, so it’s advisable to book an appointment online in advance to avoid long waiting times.
Make sure you bring all the documents mentioned above to prevent any delays in the process.
Registration with a driving school
As a first-time driver, the next step is to register with a driving school. The training consists of two parts:
Theory lessons: At the driving school, you must complete a certain number of lessons on traffic rules and regulations. You’ll also learn the basics such as traffic signs and proper behavior on the road.
Practical driving lessons: Alongside the theory lessons, you’ll begin driving lessons in which you learn to drive under the supervision of a driving instructor. Depending on your progress, you’ll need a varying number of lessons.
The exams
Theory test: After completing the theory lessons, you must take a theory test. The questions focus on traffic rules, road safety, and behavior in traffic.
Practical test: Once you’ve completed all required driving lessons and passed the theory test, the practical driving test follows. This is usually conducted by an examiner, preferably from TÜV.
Conversion of a foreign driver’s license
If you want to convert your foreign driver’s license, the requirements depend on your country of origin.
EU/EEA licenses: In most cases, you can directly convert your EU or EEA license without having to take a test.
Non-EU/EEA licenses: For licenses from non-EU countries, you may have to take a theory and/or practical test. This depends on the country your license was issued in and whether Germany has an agreement with that country.
Countries exempt from testing: For some countries, you can convert your license directly without additional exams. This usually applies to many European countries and countries with comparable licensing standards.
Costs
The cost of applying for your driver’s license in Berlin can vary, but generally the following expenses apply:
Driving school costs: The cost of a driver’s license depends on the number of driving lessons. For talented learners, it starts at around €2,000. Since fixed prices are legally prohibited (anyone offering them is acting illegally), the price can vary greatly. For those who struggle, it can easily cost twice as much. The number of lessons — and thus the quality of training — is crucial. This includes both theory and practical lessons. The more time you take with either, the more expensive it gets.
Exam fees: The theory test costs about €20–30, and the practical test around €100–150.
Driver’s license application: The application at the driver’s license office costs about €40–50.
Additional costs: Eye tests, first aid course, and photos also incur extra charges.
Tips for a successful application
Prepare early: Make sure you gather all the necessary documents in time and don’t forget any important paperwork.
Study regularly: It’s helpful to review the material regularly during the theory lessons so that you are well prepared for the exam.
Overcome test anxiety: If you’re feeling nervous, talk to your driving instructor and ask for additional practice sessions. This will help you gain more confidence.
Conclusion
The process of applying for your driver’s license in Berlin is clear and well-structured. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to convert your foreign license – it’s important to be well prepared and gather all the required documents. With proper planning and a bit of patience, you’ll soon successfully pass your driving test.