Key takeaways
  • You can drive with your Indian licence for 6 months after you register your residence.
  • Carry an international driving permit or an official translation.
  • India is not on the list of countries with a simple exchange, so you need theory and practical tests.
  • You don't have to do the full number of driving lessons, but most people take some.

Many Indians plan to drive in Germany with their licence for years. That doesn't work. Here is the real rule.

The 6 month rule

A valid foreign licence lets you drive in Germany for six months after you register your normal residence (§29 Driving Licence Regulation). After that, you need a German licence. Carry an international driving permit or an official German translation with your Indian licence.

Converting an Indian licence

Licences from some countries can be exchanged with little or no testing. India is not one of them, so you take the theory and practical tests, but you usually don't need the full set of compulsory lessons.

  1. Apply at the driving licence office (Führerscheinstelle). Bring your licence, translation, passport, registration certificate, photo, eye test and first aid course certificate.
  2. Register with a driving school. The school prepares you and books the tests.
  3. Pass the theory test. It is available in several languages, including English.
  4. Pass the practical test. Most people take a few lessons to learn German road rules and the test route.

Tips

  • Start within the first months, because appointments and tests take time.
  • Driving school costs vary a lot by city; ask several schools.
  • For truck and bus licences, separate rules apply. See my truck driver jobs guide.

Common questions

Can I extend the 6 months?

Only in rare cases where you show you will leave Germany within 12 months.

Does the international driving permit replace my licence?

No. It is a translation and only valid together with your Indian licence.

Is the theory test in English?

Yes, English is one of the available languages.

Sources

Written by Swapnil (Samadhan Mule)

I moved to Germany for my master's, collected more than 1,000 rejections, and then got multiple job offers within six months. I work in digital marketing in Germany and help international professionals get hired in Europe. Read my story.