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Relocating

DRIVER LICENSE IN DÜSSELDORF

Image of driver license
© BMVI

When driving for an extended period in Germany it is necessary to convert a foreign driver license to a local German version, Führerschein. It is highly important to do so within the first six months after arrival in the country. Following that time, the original license is no longer valid and driving not permitted. It is possible but not recommended due to the inconvenience to convert a license for up to three years following commencement of residency.

During that time, however, the process can become more involved even leading to the necessity to sit a new driving test. This system operates for licenses issued in most countries, though exemptions do exist.

EU citizens encounter the smoothest options. US nationals have a hit and miss situation with some state licenses fully convertible, others with restrictions and yet more have no reciprocal agreement whatsoever.

By Vincent Green, Mar 11 2020

Landeshauptstadt Düsseldorf
Strassenverkehrsamt

Höherweg 101
40200 Düsseldorf

+49 211 899 1

Written text on paper

GERMAN FOR FUN

We stand in a foreign culture finding ourselves pointing, gesticulating and hoping to be understood. Germans mostly speak at least some English. However, some expats relocating to Düsseldorf may wish to carry a few basic but helpful words with them for use in awkward moments.

Tram doors on subway

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

The public transport system in the city is safe and normally efficient. A dense network of trams above and below ground as well as buses serve the city and its suburbs. Links via the S-Bahn train system reach further outlying areas and neighbouring communities.

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EXHIBITIONS

Art venues and museums in Düsseldorf
regularly present selections of fine pieces
in well arranged exhibitions.
Regular exhibits also include fascinating
or rare works from across the globe.

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HAPPENINGS

Some events pop up only briefly.
Many activities are small or unique.
Such occurrences are published in this
source of surprise and discovery.

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