Many German employers who hire from India are located outside the big cities — in industrial estates, small towns and rural districts where buses run infrequently and shifts start before the first train. For them, whether a new hire can drive is a practical question. This guide covers the general rules for workers who need a car to get to work. Professional drivers face additional requirements explained in our Code 95 guide.
The Six-Month Window
A valid foreign driving licence may generally be used in Germany for six months after the holder takes up normal residence. For licences not issued in German, a translation or an international driving permit must usually be carried alongside the original. After the six months, the foreign licence no longer entitles the holder to drive in Germany.
The window starts when the worker takes up residence, typically around the date of arrival and registration — not when they start driving.
Why a Full Test Is Needed
Germany allows simplified conversion for licences from certain countries listed in its licensing regulations. India is not among them. Indian licence holders therefore need to pass the German theory test and practical test to obtain a German licence. Prior driving experience is not credited formally, but experienced drivers usually need fewer lessons.
What the Process Involves
- Application at the local licensing authority, with the Indian licence, passport, registration certificate, photo, eye test and first-aid course certificate
- Theory test, available in several languages including English
- Practical test, usually taken with a driving school's dual-controlled car
- Lessons as needed to learn German traffic rules and test expectations
Budget several months and a meaningful cost, depending on lessons needed and local test waiting times. Start the application soon after arrival to finish within the window.
Planning Commuting
Before the first shift: map the route from accommodation to site at the actual shift times, by public transport, bicycle and car.
During the first six months: the worker can drive on the Indian licence if they have one, insure a car and are comfortable on German roads. Many are not, especially in winter.
After six months: without a German licence, the worker cannot drive. If commuting depends on driving, the German licence must be in hand by then.
Options That Work
- Housing near the site — the simplest solution
- Shuttle services for shift starts, common at larger plants
- Car-sharing within the cohort, with one licensed driver
- Bicycles and e-bikes, often subsidised by employers
- Job tickets for public transport where routes exist
- Funding the German licence against a reasonable commitment
Company Vehicles
If workers drive company vehicles, the employer must check that they hold a valid licence for the vehicle category, and repeat the check periodically. Allowing someone to drive without a valid licence exposes the employer to liability. Note the expiry of the six-month window in your records.
Licences for Work Vehicles
Vans above certain weights, trailers, tractors and plant machinery on public roads may need categories beyond a standard car licence. Landscaping, construction and agriculture employers should check categories during scoping. See our gardeners and landscapers page.
Insurance
Car insurance premiums in Germany depend partly on the driver's claims history in Germany. New arrivals usually start in a high-premium class. Some insurers consider foreign claims-free history; ask before buying.
What to Tell Candidates Before They Leave India
- Bring the Indian licence and obtain an international driving permit
- Expect to take the German tests if they plan to drive beyond six months
- Budget for lessons, or confirm the employer will fund them
- Be honest about winter driving experience
A Practical Timeline
- Week 1: registration; licence application with eye test and first-aid course booked
- Month 1–2: theory preparation and test
- Month 2–4: lessons and practical test
- Before month 6: German licence issued
Next Step
Commuting is part of the scoping we do for every requirement outside major cities. See our relocation package guide, or send us a requirement.
