Driving in Germany: Is a U.S. driver’s license sufficient? (2024)

FAQs

Driving in Germany: Is a U.S. driver’s license sufficient? ›

Your own driver's license is valid in Germany, at least at the outset. If you're just visiting and are from outside the EU and EEA and don't intend to become a resident, you may need to get an International Driving Permit or an official translation of your home country license to carry along with your current license.

Your driver's license is valid to the same extent as in your home country. You do not have to change anything or have it rewritten. Citizens from another country: You can drive in Germany for six months with your driver's license.

Is driving a car in Germany easy? Driving in Germany will be easy if you are used to driving on the right. If you normally drive on the left, you may want to get used to driving on the right side of the road first. You can practice this, for example, in the parking lot or with someone who normally drives on the right.

When visiting another country as a U.S. citizen: Your state driver's license is valid while driving in Canada and Mexico. In other countries, you may need to get an IDP for foreign drivers.

However, in Germany you don't need an IDP for a license in English, and the rental car agency usually only wants to see your US or Canadian driver's license. (VERIFY this with your rental car agency!) If you plan to drive a lot outside of Germany, you may still want to get an IDP, which is valid in over 150 countries.

Your driving licence is valid if your stay in the Federal Republic of Germany is temporary. If you hold a valid domestic driving licence or International Driving Permit, you may drive all categories of vehicle indicated on your licence in the Federal Republic of Germany.

Across Europe, it's illegal to turn right on a red light, unless a sign or signal specifically authorizes it (most common in Germany).

hard shoulder as lanes, bus stops and taxi stands

Drive on the hard shoulder This sign allows hard shoulders to be used as traffic lanes; this is like driving in the right lane. The lane separator can be crossed like a guide marking.

What countries honor US driver's license? ›

In Canada and Mexico, American drivers' licenses are generally perfectly valid. Many other countries may also recognize a U.S. driver's license, but only for a limited time.

If you're American or Canadian, your passport and driver's license are all you need in most European countries. However, some countries also require an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is an official translation of your US license (making it easier for a local police officer to write out a ticket).

Germany is a stunning country with a fascinating history and culture that is well worth seeing. When visiting Germany, one of the essential things to think about is how you will get around once you arrive. Whether you want to see major cities or go on a day trip out to the countryside, renting a vehicle may be helpful.

Applying for an international driving license normally costs EUR 20.40; if you want to exchange it for an EU card driving license, additional costs apply. The basis for this is the fee schedule for measures in road traffic (GebOSt).

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is also required except for driver's licenses issued by the following countries: Austria, Bosnia, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, Macedonia, Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia.

U.S. driver's licenses are valid in both Canada and Mexico. But many other countries do not recognize U.S. driver's licenses, according to the U.S. State Department. For those countries, you'll typically need an International Driving Permit. How do you know what you need for the places you'll be visiting?

It is also illegal to pass on the right on German streets and highways (including the Autobahn). Slow moving vehicles must always move to the right, and faster vehicles may pass on the left only. The right lane must be used when it is free, and the left lane is generally intended for passing maneuvers only.

The Rules of the Autobahn

Europeans, Germans in particular, have a more aggressive approach to driving. If you remain a typical, more laid-back American driver, you could have problems. You also need to be alert and pay even more attention to the road than required in the US.

Registration, Inspection and Insurance

If your stay in Germany is only temporary you can drive your imported motor vehicle for a period of up to 6 months with your home license plates and registration. A registration document with a German translation is required. And you'll have to show proof of insurance.