Führerscheinbehörden

Führerscheinbehörden are the public institutions in Germany responsible for the issuance, renewal and revocation of driving licences (Führerschein). They belong to the local vehicle registration offices (Kfz‑Zulassungsstelle) or to separate traffic administration units within municipal or district authorities. Their tasks are defined by the Straßenverkehrs‑Ordnung (StVO) and the Fahrerlaubnis‑Gesetz (FeV), which set the legal framework for driver qualification, testing and documentation.

Applicants must present a valid identity document, proof of residency, a completed application form and, depending on the licence class, a medical‑psychological report (e.g. for classes C, D, L). The authority checks the applicant’s prior driving record, verifies the fulfillment of theoretical and practical training requirements and records any existing restrictions. For first‑time applicants, the Führerscheinbehörde arranges the mandatory theory examination and, after successful completion, schedules the practical driving test at an approved driving school or test centre.

The authority also handles special procedures such as the conversion of foreign licences, the issuance of temporary or international licences, and the processing of licence suspensions or revocations following traffic violations or medical incapacity. In cases of revocation, the Führerscheinbehörde may require the completion of remedial measures before re‑granting the licence.

Fees for the services are prescribed by local fee regulations (Gebührenverordnung) and vary by licence class and type of procedure. Many authorities offer online services for appointment booking, status inquiries and electronic document submission, aiming to streamline the administrative process for citizens.