A guide for Australians on how to get a german driving licence as an australian.
## 48. How to Get a German Driving Licence as an Australian Driving in Germany as an Australian involves specific rules about when you can use your Australian licence, when you need an international permit, and eventually how to convert to a German licence if you stay. ### Using Your Australian Licence in Germany **Short visits (up to 6 months):** Your Australian driving licence is valid in Germany, but German law requires a certified German translation of your Australian licence — or an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by your Australian state or territory, which includes a German translation. **Get an IDP before you leave Australia.** IDPs are issued by the NRMA, RACQ, RACV, RAA, RAA (SA), or equivalent state motoring organisations. They cost around AUD $35–$45 and are issued on the spot. The IDP is valid for 12 months. **After 6 months in Germany:** Once you have been living in Germany for more than 6 months, your Australian licence is technically no longer valid for driving in Germany and you need to obtain a German licence. ### Converting an Australian Licence Australia and Germany have a driver's licence reciprocity agreement — meaning you can convert an Australian licence to a German one without sitting the full German driving test. This is a significant advantage, as the full German driving test is notoriously expensive (typically €2,000–€3,000 including mandatory lessons). **The conversion process:** 1. **Register your address (*Anmeldung*)** — required first 2. **Visit the *Straßenverkehrsamt* (road traffic authority)** in your city 3. **Submit:** Your original Australian licence, a certified German translation (if not using IDP), your Meldebestätigung, passport photos, and the conversion application form 4. **First aid course (*Erste-Hilfe-Kurs*):** German law requires proof of completing a basic first aid course. Many driving schools and Red Cross organisations offer these for approximately €20–€30. 5. **Eye test (*Sehtest*):** Basic eye test, available at most opticians for around €5. 6. **Pay the conversion fee:** Typically €30–€50. The German licence is then issued in exchange for your Australian licence (which is held by German authorities and returned on request when you leave Germany). ### Important Note for Queenslanders and Victorians Confirm the reciprocity agreement terms with your local *Straßenverkehrsamt* before applying, as the specific terms of the Australia-Germany agreement and which licence classes are directly convertible can be updated. Queensland and Victoria residents have sometimes had slightly different experiences from NSW or SA residents due to differences in local licence classification systems.Found this useful? Share it with other Australians learning German 🇦🇺
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B1 German / Beginner Swiss German
An Australian who learned German to B1 level without living in Germany — navigating the same lack of local resources that most Australian learners face. Currently learning Swiss German. This site is the resource I wished had existed when I started.
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