Hurry up, folks! It's time to swap your ancient driving licenses
The outdated "Lappen" has had its day.
If you're still clinging to one of those ancient driving permits, it's high time to swap it for the sleek, credit card-style version. To avoid chaos and a mad rush to every driving license office at once, deadlines have been set and divided based on year of birth.
The latest cutoff is fast approaching: By January 19, 2024, those born between 1965 and 1970 must exchange their old driver's license for the new one.
The European Union introduced this change as part of a larger effort to enhance road safety and standardize driving documents across the continent.
Why the need for a change?
German driver's licenses are divided into different classes, yet they do not comply with EU standards. This is precisely why the exchange is necessary. The EU aims to establish a uniform structure and improve security by introducing the new driving licenses, which boast additional security features and a standardized design.
Which driver's licenses are affected?
The exchange impacts everyone holding a driving license issued before January 19, 2013. On the flip side, those who obtained their driving license after this date are exempt from the exchange requirement.
New EU card driver's licenses, which have been issued since January 19, 2013, are valid for 15 years. At the end of this period, they must be renewed or exchanged.
Although driver's licenses in card format have been around since 1999, the cards issued before 2013 do not yet adhere to the uniform EU design and lack an expiration date.
The exchange process
The application for the new driver's license can be submitted at a local driving license office or online. Since regulations may vary by federal state, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the local rules prior to the exchange. Commonly required documents include:
▶︎ Identity card or passport: A valid ID is necessary for identification purposes.
▶︎ Biometric passport photo: A current passport photo in biometric format is required.
▶︎ Current driving license: The old driving license must be submitted along with the exchange application.
Fees: Depending on the federal state, various fees may apply for the exchange. The typical charge is about 25 euros.
Consequences of missing the deadline
The exchange of driver's licenses is mandatory, and failing to do so can result in fines.
- To avoid penalties, those born between 1965 and 1970 should swap their older driver's licenses for EU card designs by January 19, 2024. This is in accordance with traffic law regulations and the "Catalog of fines."
- Plan a "car vacation" soon? Don't forget to exchange your outdated driving license before heading out. A valid driver's license is a must for legal driving, and the EU card design offers enhanced security and compliance with traffic law standards.
- Stay informed about driver's license exchange news to avoid legal issues and fines, as stated in their "Catalog of fines."
