Driver's license exchange in Germany is becoming easier. Long queues at the driver's license office—a sight many have become accustomed to in the past. If you need to exchange your driver's license but want to avoid unnecessary wait times, you can now do it online.
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Next year, some individuals must exchange their old pink or gray driver's licenses by January 19. By 2033, all driver's licenses issued before January 19, 2013, must be replaced with unified EC driver's licenses.
How to speed up the process of exchanging your driver's license in Germany
Online exchange undoubtedly saves time and stress. This method is attractive for those unable to adhere to the driver's license office's working hours.
First, one needs to fill out an online application, providing information about the applicant and the driver's license. On the online portals, drivers can also directly pay the fee for the new driver's license using various payment methods.
However, the exchange cannot be completed entirely online. After filling out the form, applicants must submit some documents by mail.
Documents to be provided later:
- Photograph
- Applicant's signature
- Original old driver's license
- Stamped and addressed envelope for the return of the old driver's license (if desired)
- Copy of the registration card (if the old driver's license was issued in a different district)
The service portal of the Baden-Württemberg region offers municipalities the option to submit an online application for obtaining a driver's license. However, in most districts and cities, online forms are not available.
Currently, the exchange is possible on online portals outside of Baden-Württemberg, specifically in Munich and Wuppertal. Taking advantage of this offer is much more convenient than personally visiting the respective authority.
Submitting an online application for a driver's license exchange saves time, making it especially relevant for individuals with irregular work schedules or flexible weekends.
Related topics:
- Despite the convenience of online driver's license exchange, it's essential to remember that some documents need to be sent through the mail after filling out the online application.
- Regrettably, while the Baden-Württemberg region offers an online application for obtaining a driver's license, it's not yet a common feature in most other districts and cities across Germany.
