Apply for an international driver's license
Issuance of an international driver's license in accordance with the Vienna Convention for driving in non-EU countries.
How to proceed
- 1
Submit an application to the Department of Motor Vehicles
In person, with a national driver's license, ID card, and a photo.
- 2
Pay the fee
Approx. €15, depending on the municipality.
- 3
Obtain an international driver's license
Valid for 3 years; must always be carried together with your national driver's license.
Required documents
- Biometric photoMandatoryOften forgotten
A recent biometric passport photo.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
1 day
Official: max. 1 day
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Did not bring a biometric photo
- • Forgot your national driver's license (which is also required)
Common reasons for rejection
- • Driver's license expired or revoked
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Holders of a German driver's license who wish to drive in countries outside the EU.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. 1 day
Success rate
approx. 99.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Did not bring a biometric photo
- •Forgot your national driver's license (which is also required)
Common reasons for rejection
- •Driver's license expired or revoked
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.