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This covers licences from outside the EU/EEA. The Munich details are one office’s rules; your local Führerscheinstelle may differ in appointments, fees and documents.
At a glance
- Driving right
- Six months after first registration
- Extension
- Not possible; special case for stays of 12 months or less
- Tests
- Generally none for Anlage 11 countries
- Munich processing
- Up to 14 weeks
Your checklist
First steps
Your checklist stays on this device.
The six-month limit
After six months from your first main-residence registration, a non-EU/EEA licence is no longer recognised and the period cannot be extended. Berlin’s licensing authority says there is no deadline for the conversion application itself, but the original licence must be valid and available when you apply.
Because processing can take weeks, applying early matters more than the formal lack of a deadline.
Documents listed by Munich
Passport or ID card, a biometric photo, the original foreign licence valid on the conversion date, a certified translation (from automobile clubs or sworn translators), and proof of how long you have held the licence unless it shows it. Munich also asks for an extended registration certificate confirming your first registration in Germany unless that was in Munich.
For classes A, A1, A2, AM, B, BE, L and T, add an eye test and first-aid certificate. Classes C and CE also need a medical fitness report. Medical reports must be no older than one year and eye tests no older than two.
Fees in Munich
Munich lists €37.50 without a test or probationary period, €38.30 with a probationary period, €45.10 if a test is required, and €45.90 if a test is required with a probationary period. Fees elsewhere can differ.
Where this sits in your move
The six months start from your first registration, so see the Anmeldung and Berlin move-order guides.
Common questions
How long can I drive in Germany on a non-EU licence?
For six months after your first registration of a main residence. That period cannot be extended.
Do I need to take driving tests?
Not for Anlage 11 countries, generally; for other non-EU/EEA countries theory and practical tests are required.
Is there a deadline to apply for conversion?
Berlin’s authority says there is none, but the original licence must be valid when you apply and your driving right ends after six months.
Can I convert a licence I obtained after moving here?
No. A licence obtained while you had a German main residence is not recognised.
How long does conversion take?
Munich lists up to 14 weeks after a complete application.
Official sources
Read this first
- LABO Berlin: recognition of non-EU driving licencesSix-month rule, conditions for recognition, Anlage 11 and other countries
- City of Munich: converting a foreign driving licenceMunich documents, appointment, fees, processing time and hand-in of the foreign licence
Rules can vary by nationality, work or study status, and city. Confirm your route with the official authority before you act.