Exchanging a licence
Exchange your foreign driving licence
We do this often, and we know the process. We apply together with you and prepare you for exactly what the authority asks for.
The most important thing first
A licence from outside the EU is usually valid in Germany for only six months from the day you register your residence. After that you are treated as driving without a licence. So come and see us early — six months is enough time, but not generous.
Which tests will you need to take?
That is decided by the Landratsamt Rems-Murr-Kreis, not by us. It depends on the country and date of issue, the category, and your individual case.
In practice, licences from many non-EU countries require both the theory and the practical test. Sometimes only the practical test is needed. The authority confirms this after the application — which is why we do not promise you an outcome in advance. We apply together and then prepare for whatever is required.
You can take the theory test in your language
The written test can be taken at the TÜV in English, Turkish, Standard Arabic, Russian, Romanian and several other languages. Limited German is not an obstacle at this stage.
The practical test, however, is in German only, and an interpreter is not permitted. We say that plainly. It is exactly why we prepare you for the German instructions you will hear during the test — "turn right here", "park over there", "reverse into the space" — we practise those phrases with you beforehand.
How the process works
- Come and see us, bringing your licence and ID. We look at your case together.
- We prepare the application to the Landratsamt — or submit it entirely for you.
- The authority tells us which tests are required.
- We start the lessons you actually need: theory only, driving only, or both.
- We book your test appointment with the TÜV.
- Once you pass, you receive your German licence.
What to bring
- Your licence (the original) and a certified translation if you have one
- A valid ID card or passport
- Proof of registered residence (Meldebescheinigung)
- A biometric photo
- An eyesight certificate
- Proof of a first aid course
Missing something? Tell us and we will point you to where you can get it quickly.
What usually applies, by country
| Country of issue | Usually |
|---|---|
| Turkey | In practice both the theory and the practical test are usually required. |
| Syria | Non-EU state without an agreement, as a rule both tests. |
| Ukraine | Listed in Anlage 11 FeV since 18 August 2026: converted without a theory or practical test. For lorry and bus categories, medical fitness must still be documented. |
| Montenegro | Also listed since 18 August 2026: converted without a test. |
| Russia | Non-EU state, as a rule both tests. |
| Romania, Croatia, Poland, Italy | EU states: usually a straight exchange without a test. |
This overview is a guide from our own experience, not binding information. Only the decision of the Landratsamt is binding.
Someone who has been through it
„I worked with Fahrschule Suat to convert my Turkish licence into a German one. Every stage went smoothly. I passed the test on my first attempt and got my licence."Bring your licence and drop by.
Our office is open Monday to Thursday, 16:30–18:30. No appointment needed. Or send us a short message on WhatsApp — we usually reply the same day.