Have a driving licence translated into German
Driving licences that the driving licence authority classifies without a query at conversion — driving categories correctly matched, translated in certified form.
At conversion, what matters is whether your driving categories are correctly matched
For the conversion of a foreign driving licence we translate the document in certified form — driving categories, conditions and validity we match so that the driving licence authority can classify them unambiguously.
For the driving licence authority: categories correctly matched to the German categories
Anyone converting a driving licence from a non-EU state usually needs a certified translation with a matching of the categories. We render the document so that the authority can classify the driving categories unambiguously.
Does the driving licence authority require a certified translation?
Whether a translation is necessary is decided by the driving licence authority; for licences from third countries it as a rule requires a certified translation. This may be produced by an authorised translator or an automobile club — we deliver it with a certification note.
Are the driving categories matched to the German categories?
Yes. The translation includes the matching of your categories to the German categories such as A, A1, B, BE or C. Whether an additional theoretical or practical test is required depends on the issuing state and is decided by the authority.
Where do I submit the conversion application?
You apply for the conversion in person at the driving licence authority (Fuehrerscheinstelle) of your place of residence. We agree the scope of the translation with you in advance, so that the documents are complete.
For authorities and car rental companies abroad: validity proven
Anyone driving abroad for longer or converting a licence there needs the certified translation of the German document. The international driving permit is something different — we explain the distinction.
Does the international driving permit replace the translation?
No. The international driving permit is a separate, multilingual document that you apply for in addition to the national driving licence at the driving licence authority; it does not replace a certified translation where a foreign body requires one.
What is the translation of the German driving licence needed for abroad?
For conversion at a foreign authority, for longer stays or for rentals, the certified translation may be required. We render categories, conditions and validity in full.
How quickly is the certified translation available?
Driving licences are concise, clearly structured documents; the certified translation is as a rule available within a few working days, and you usually receive the fixed-price quote within a few hours.
How your certified driving licence translation works
Document and upload
Send your driving licence as a PDF, photo or scan – we check legibility, stamps and intended use.
Fixed price in 120 minutes
You receive a binding fixed-price quote with a delivery date, clearly calculated in advance.
Professional translators and revision
Assignment to a subject-matter translator; independent revision under the four-eyes principle per DIN EN ISO 17100.
Delivered certified
Digital advance version and, on request, the certified copy by post – officially recognised.
Translate a driving licence: German, English, French, Turkish, Spanish and over 60 languages
Whether for an authority, court, employer or university at home or abroad: we produce translations of driving licences in German, English, French, Spanish, Italian, Turkish, Arabic and over 60 other languages. Only native-speaker translators with a relevant background translate; every version is revised on the four-eyes principle in accordance with DIN EN ISO 17100 and certified on request – recognised by authorities and courts.
How your fixed price for the driving licence translation is calculated
We bill transparently by standard line (55 characters including spaces) from €0.95. The binding fixed price depends on volume, language combination, certification and the desired quality level – with no hidden costs and usually within about two hours.
Translating a driving licence – frequently asked questions
Do I need a translation for the conversion?
For driving licences from third countries, generally yes. We deliver the certified translation in the format accepted by the driving licence authority; for EU driving licences it is often unnecessary.
Are the driving licence categories rendered correctly?
Yes – we render categories, code numbers and conditions exactly, so that the assignment to the German categories is unambiguous.
How fast is it?
Fixed-price quote usually within about 120 minutes; a driving licence is as a rule translated at short notice, express possible.
What does the translation cost?
From €0.95 per standard line; for a standard driving licence we state a binding fixed price in advance.
By when must I have my foreign driving licence converted?
Driving licences from third countries entitle the holder to drive for only six months after taking up residence in Germany; after that, conversion at the driving licence authority is required. For this you submit a certified translation of the driving licence that maps classes and conditions to the German licence categories.
Do I need a translation for an EU driving licence?
No – EU and EEA driving licences are valid in Germany directly and need neither be converted nor translated. Only for driving licences from third countries does the driving licence authority require the certified translation for the conversion.
Translation of driving licences and identity documents
With the driving licence, the correct mapping of the driving licence categories determines whether the conversion runs smoothly. Alongside the driving licence we often also translate, for relocation and recognition, the Passport, which Certificate of registration and the Residence permit – certified and consistent.