How long is a foreign licence valid?
The German Driving Licence Regulation lets holders of a licence from outside the EU/EEA continue driving for a limited period after taking up ordinary residence in Germany (§ 29 FeV). The City of Leipzig states 185 days after entry on its service page and notes that an extension is not possible.
To keep driving after that, you have to convert your licence. Licences from EU and EEA countries follow different rules.
What does the Leipzig driving licence authority require?
For converting a licence from a non-EU country, the City of Leipzig lists among other things:
- valid identity card or passport
- valid foreign driving licence
- German translation of the licence by an officially recognised translator
- current biometric photo
- name and address of the driving school
- proof of first-aid training
- eye test certificate or – from class C1 – further medical certificates
The complete, current list is on the City of Leipzig website (see sources).
Tests: Annex 11 decides
Whether you have to take tests depends on where the licence was issued. Annex 11 of the Driving Licence Regulation lists countries for which exemptions apply (§ 31 FeV). For all other non-EU countries, Leipzig requires both a theory and a practical test at DEKRA; only then is the German licence issued.
So first check whether your issuing country is listed in Annex 11 – the City of Leipzig has a separate service page for this.
The process in Leipzig
- Book an appointment – online or via the citizens’ hotline 115. Your foreign licence must still be valid at that point.
- Apply: at the appointment your foreign licence is taken in and passed to the police for an authenticity check. According to the city, this takes about four weeks.
- Test admission: once all documents are complete, the authority admits you to the tests at DEKRA.
- Tests and hand-over of the German licence.
The city recommends booking early. Have the translation ready beforehand – then nothing is delayed.
Your translation with us
Send us a clear photo or scan of the front and back of your licence by e-mail or WhatsApp. You receive a quote; once you approve, we prepare the translation with certification. More on certification in our guide to certified translation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a translation for an English-language licence?
The City of Leipzig lists the translation as a general requirement. For some countries there are exceptions, for example under the special rules for Annex 11. If in doubt, ask the driving licence authority before ordering a translation.
What about licences from EU countries?
Licences from EU and EEA countries are generally recognised; the City of Leipzig has a separate service for them. The conversion described here concerns non-EU countries.
Can I convert an expired licence?
According to the City of Leipzig, no: the foreign licence must be valid when you apply.
Sources
This guide gives a general overview and is not legal advice. Requirements can differ between authorities and from case to case – if in doubt, check with the office responsible.