Applying for a driver's license

If your name has changed, you can have a new driver's license issued. If your driver's license has been stolen, defaced or destroyed, you must have a new driver's license issued.

If your name has changed, you do not need to have a new driving license issued. However, it may be useful to be in possession of an EU driving license with up-to-date information, especially when driving abroad.

If you wish to change the name on your driving license, a new card driving license will be issued to you on request.

If your driving license has been lost or destroyed (theft, illegibility or loss), you will need a new driving license unless you waive your right to drive.

The responsibility lies with the driving license authority.

In case of name change:

• Official proof of place and date of birth (e.g. identity card or passport), registration certificate if applicable,
• previous driver's license
• a biometric photograph in accordance with the Passport Ordinance (35 x 45 mm, frontal view, portrait format). Information and examples can be found in the photo sample table (Bundesdruckerei).
• in the event of a change of name due to marriage: additionally a certified copy of the marriage certificate, provided the name has not yet been changed in the identity card or passport,
• in the event of a change of name due to divorce: additional certificate of change of name from the registry office, provided the name has not yet been changed in the identity card or passport.
• You can find out more details from the relevant office

In the event of theft, loss, illegibility:

• a biometric photograph in accordance with the Passport Ordinance (35 x 45 mm, frontal photograph, portrait format). Information and examples can be found in the photo sample table (Bundesdruckerei).
• If applicable, submission of an affidavit in lieu of an oath regarding the whereabouts of the driver's license
• Official proof of place and date of birth (e.g. identity card or passport)
• Current registration certificate, if applicable
• If applicable, theft report from the police

• Forms available: Yes
• Written form required: Yes
• Informal application possible: No
• Personal appearance required: Yes
• Online services available: No

You must be the holder of a valid German driving license.

• Objection
• Action before the administrative court

You can apply for a replacement driving license at the driving license authority in your place of residence.

There is no deadline.

The processing time depends on the workload of the relevant driving license authority.

The costs are based on the applicable scale of charges for road traffic measures (GebOSt).