Licence for driving now up for grabs

In a move to modernize the transportation system and enhance security, the Bundesrat approved the mandatory exchange of driver's licenses in a staggered manner on February 15, 2019. Here's a breakdown of the key dates and requirements for drivers in Germany.

For those born before 1953, you have until 2033 to exchange your paper driver's license. All paper driver's licenses issued from birth years 1953 and later have expired and should have been exchanged.

Driver's licenses issued between 1999 and 2001 must be exchanged by January 19, 2026. Plastic driver's licenses issued in the years 2002 to 2004 should be exchanged starting from February 2026. The exchange deadline for these licenses is January 19, 2028.

Driver's licenses issued in the year 2005 to 2007 should be exchanged starting from January 19, 2028, with the deadline set for January 19, 2030. Plastic driver's licenses issued in the year 2008 must be exchanged starting from January 19, 2029, and the deadline is January 19, 2031.

Driver's licenses issued in the year 2009 should be exchanged starting from January 19, 2030, and the deadline is January 19, 2032. Plastic driver's licenses issued in the year 2010 must be exchanged starting from January 19, 2031, and the deadline is January 19, 2033.

Driver's licenses issued in the year 2011 have an exchange deadline of January 19, 2032. Those issued in the year 2012 to mid-2013 should be exchanged starting from January 19, 2033, with the deadline set for January 19, 2035.

The online application for the exchange of driver's licenses and application for an international driver's license is now available. Applications for the exchange of plastic driver's licenses can be made personally, in writing, or online at the Driver's License Office / Traffic Department of Landkreis Landshut.

Required documents for the application include a copy of your ID card or passport with registration confirmation, a copy of your driver's license, and a current biometric photo not older than three months.

For questions or inquiries, contact [email protected] or 0871/408-2156, -2163, or -2153. Drivers holding a Swiss driving license must exchange their physical license for a digital driver card starting January 19, 2027, and should submit their replacement applications in good time before that date to ensure timely issuance of the new documents.

The processing time for applications varies between 2 to 3 months depending on the workload. It's essential to plan ahead and apply well in advance of the deadline to avoid any inconvenience.