Driving license exchange deadline. Traffic fines in Germany. Who needs to do it now? Over the years, the look of driving licenses has changed. Before 1986, drivers got a simple “grey plastic” licence. After that, those who passed their test received a pale pink paper licence. This changed in 1999 when the paper licence was replaced with an EU card-style one. Since 2013, a new rule has further standardised EU licenses, and now all old versions must be swapped for this new type. Which age groups need to exchange their licences this year?
First deadline this year has already passed
The deadline for exchanging driving licenses issued before December 31, 1998, varies depending on the license holder’s year of birth.
| Year of birth | Replacement period expires |
| until 1953 | January 19, 2033 |
| 1953 to 1958 | January 19, 2022 |
| 1959 to 1964 | January 19, 2023 |
| 1965 to 1970 | January 19, 2024 |
| 1971 or later | January 19, 2025 |
For individuals who acquired their driver’s license after January 1, 1999, the year of issuance determines the date for the replacement of the document:
- For those who obtained their permit between 1999 and 2001, the deadline is January 19, 2026.
- For those who obtained their permit between 2002 and 2004, the deadline is January 19, 2027.
- For those who obtained their permit between 2005 and 2007, the deadline is January 19, 2028.
- For those who obtained their permit in 2008, the deadline is January 19, 2029.
- For those who obtained their permit in 2009, the deadline is January 19, 2030.
- For those who obtained their permit in 2010, the deadline is January 19, 2031.
- For those who obtained their permit in 2011, the deadline is January 19, 2032.
- For those who obtained their license between 2012 and January 18, 2013, the deadline is January 19, 2033.
How long is the new driving license valid for?
Mandatory driving license renewal: The new driving license remains valid for 15 years from the date of issuance. However, this compulsory renewal program excludes licenses issued in Germany after January 19, 2013, which necessitate replacement every 15 years for both cars and motorcycles. For driving licenses C or D, validity is limited to 5 years, requiring renewal following a mandatory medical examination.
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What documents are necessary to replace the driver’s license?
To obtain a new driving license, you will need to provide a recent photo, the old license, and a valid ID (ID card or passport). In case of a change of address, it is essential to present a copy to the office that issued the original permit.
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Where can you change the document?
The replacement process for the permit is at the Road Bureau in the resident area. Voluntary changes to the license can be initiated at any time at the Road Traffic Offices, as per ADAC.
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Caution! Failure to replace the old license may result in a fine of 10 euros during checks. Drivers of commercial vehicles or buses may face more severe penalties if they neglect to renew their driving license promptly.