One of the often-frustrating realities of living in Germany is placing a little too much faith in the train system.
Yes, it’s convenient. Yes, it’s extensive. But when you’re once again staring at a departure board flashing “Verspätung”, you can’t help but miss the independence you had back home — the freedom of jumping into a car and going wherever you want, whenever you want.
For many expats, what holds them back is the assumption that getting a German driver’s license is complicated and incredibly expensive. And in most cases, that’s true. Starting from scratch in Germany can cost thousands of euros.
But here’s the good news:
If you hold a South African driver’s license, there’s a much cheaper and simpler alternative. For roughly €110, you can legally drive in Germany — and across Europe.
Here’s how to do it in five straightforward steps.
Step 1: Get Your South African License Translated
Your first step is to have your South African driver’s license officially translated into German.
A trusted and widely accepted institution for this is Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club (ADAC).
- Cost: Approximately €60
- Processing time: 5–10 working days
- Result: You’ll receive confirmation by email once your translation is ready.
This official translation is essential for the conversion process (“Umschreibung”).
Step 2: Visit Your Local Rathaus (Town Hall)
Next, go to the Rathaus (town hall) in the city where you are registered in Germany.
There, you’ll request an “Umschreibung” — the official conversion of your foreign license into a German one.
Bring the following:
- Your passport
- Your original South African driver’s license
- The official German translation
- Around €5–€10 (depending on the municipality)
⚠️ Important:
You will need to surrender your South African driver’s license. You won’t get it back — so give it a warm farewell.
Requirements may vary slightly depending on the region, so always double-check with your local authority beforehand.
Step 3: Wait for the Confirmation Letter
After approximately two weeks, you’ll receive a letter confirming:
- Authentication of your license
- Instructions to pay a €40 fee
This payment covers the printing and issuing of your German driver’s license.
This is the payment you’ve been waiting for — because it means approval is complete.
Step 4: Pay the €40 Printing Fee
The letter will contain the bank details and reference number needed for payment.
Make sure to include the correct reference when transferring the money to avoid delays.
Step 5: Receive Your German Driver’s License
Once payment has been processed, your German driver’s license will be issued.
And just like that — for roughly €110 total — you’re legally allowed to drive not only in Germany but throughout Europe.
No driving school.
No theory exams.
No practical tests.
No thousands of euros.
Just freedom.
Final Thoughts
While Germany’s public transport system is impressive, nothing quite compares to the independence of having your own vehicle — especially when trains are delayed yet again.
If you’re a South African license holder living in Germany, this simple conversion process can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
No more planning your life around “Verspätung.”
Just get in and drive. 🚗
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