Driving license tourism: This is how Germans save money when driving in other EU countries!

Driving license tourism: This is how Germans save money when driving in other EU countries!

Obtaining a driving license in Germany is becoming increasingly more expensive. The total cost of a class B car driving license is now between 2,500 and 4,500 euros. In addition, driving license prices rose by 5.8% in 2024 compared to the previous year, which means an increase of 33% since 2021. Motor vehicle insurance also recorded a dramatic increase: from 2023 to 2024 there was an increase of 30.4% in costs. Given these developments, many Germans have considered driving abroad, where prices are significantly cheaper. In countries like Poland or Bulgaria it is possible to obtain driving licenses, often at a fraction of the German cost.

The ka-news.de reports on the significant price differences: In some EU countries, a driving license can be purchased for between 650 and 2000 euros. For example, driving licenses in Belgium cost between 1000 and 1500 euros, in Greece it is only 900 to 1800 euros.

Driving license tourism and residency regulations

The term “driving license tourism” is widespread today and is often used in a derogatory way. There are serious reasons for many Germans to obtain a driving license in another EU country. However, in order to obtain a valid EU driving license, it is necessary to be registered in the respective country and live there for at least 185 days a year. An exception is the regulation for schoolchildren and students who can get their driving license in the host country as long as they live there for at least six months.

However, some driving school tourism providers try to circumvent this residency regulation, which can increase costs for driving students. The eu-fahrschein-agentur.com highlights that students living abroad are often able to avoid the MPU (Medical-Psychological Examination), which can be an obstacle in Germany. This circumstance attracts many who encounter difficulties in Germany.

Quality and legal aspects

Although driving in other EU countries seems attractive, the ADAC expresses concerns about the quality of driving licenses from these countries. In particular, the suitability of people whose driving license is considered unsuitable in Germany is brought into focus. The European Court of Justice has ruled that EU driving licenses must be recognized after a blocking period has expired, which is significant for many. This regulation means that drivers whose driving license has been revoked have the opportunity to acquire a driving license again through legal providers.

In summary, driving license tourism has become popular in Germany as a response to rising prices. However, there are many legal and qualitative aspects to consider that are worth considering in detail. The discussion about the uniformity of driving license regulations and the demand for reformed regulations at EU level also remains relevant.