In which languages can I take the theory exam?

The theoretical exam in Germany can be taken in the following languages: German, English, French, Greek, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Croatian, Spanish, Turkish and Arabic.

Do I need a translation of my foreign driver's license?

Yes, for driver's licenses from non-EU countries, the KVR Munich usually requires a certified translation and an official classification (e.g. by ADAC).

LICENSE TRANSFER § 31 FeV

Foreign Driver's License
in Munich.

Information on validity, official exam languages and the process for license transfer from non-EU countries.

⚠️ Legal situation: Valid for 6 months after establishing residency. After that, the driving permit expires.

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Requirements

Theory & Practice:
The Language Regulations

Many applicants worry about the language barrier. Here are the official regulations for the exam at TÜV Süd.

1. Theory (13 Languages)

You do not have to take the exam in German. The following official languages are permitted:

GermanEnglishFrench GreekItalianPolish PortugueseRomanianRussian CroatianSpanishTurkish Arabic

Tip: Our app contains all exam questions in these languages.

2. Practice (German)

The practical exam must be conducted exclusively in German according to regulations.

You must understand:

Directions (Left, Right)
Driving tasks (Parking, U-turn)
Technical check (Lights, Horn)

Don't worry: We provide you with vocabulary lists.

The path to a German driver's license

The License Transfer Process

Application

Submit application at KVR Munich. We help with the forms.

➜ To KVR Online Service

Theory

No mandatory classes! Just study with the app and pass the exam.

Practice

No special drives required! Only practice lessons to prepare for German standards.

Exam

Theory & practice at TÜV Süd. After that you receive your German driver's license.

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EU vs. Non-EU

Driver's licenses from the EU (e.g. Poland, Croatia) usually do not need to be converted. For non-EU countries (e.g. USA, Turkey, Serbia) it is mandatory.

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First Aid & Eye Test

Both are mandatory for the application at KVR. The eye test must not be older than 2 years.

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Automatic?

We often recommend converting to automatic (B197), as this significantly eases driving in Munich city traffic.

License Transfer in the Greater Munich Area

Translation & Classification

Before the transfer application is processed by the driver's license authority (Kreisverwaltungsreferat), non-EU countries usually require a certified translation and official classification of the license classes (e.g. by ADAC). We provide targeted advice on the required documents so the process starts smoothly and you don't lose any time.

Local Exam Area & TÜV Süd

Whether you live directly in Munich or in the surrounding area like Trudering, Haar, Bogenhausen or Zorneding – we prepare you optimally for German traffic rules. The practical driving test takes place on the typical TÜV Süd exam routes, so you know exactly what the examiners in Munich look for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to attend theory classes?

No. For license transfers from non-EU countries (outside EU/EEA), no mandatory theory lessons are required. However, you must pass the exam.

Is the practical exam in German?

Yes. Communication during the drive is in German. You must understand terms like "Left", "Right", "Parking" reliably.

Do I need a translation of my driver's license?

In most cases, yes. For licenses from non-EU countries, the driver's license authority almost always requires a recognized, certified translation and classification (for example through ADAC) before the transfer application is approved.

Will my previous probationary period be credited?

If you have held your foreign driver's license for less than two years at the time of transfer, the remaining time will be transferred as a probationary period to your new German driver's license.

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Theory & Practice: The Language Regulations