Procesli
ES EN

How to exchange your Spanish driver's license in Cologne (2026)

Verified on:

Cost

€43.00

Approximate administrative fee: 35-43€. Sehtest at an optician: 7-10€.

Time at office

30-45 minutes at the appointment

Estimated time

3-6 months (verification with the Spanish DGT).

Quick summary

English guide to exchange your Spanish driver's license for a German one in Cologne. Required documents, cost, and time for the exchange process at the Bürgeramt.

Required documents

  • Original driver's license

    The original Spanish license to be exchanged. It will be retained during the process.

  • Anmeldebestätigung

    Confirmation of registration of residence.

  • Passport or ID

    Valid identification document.

  • Biometric photo

    Recent photo with a clear background.

  • Sehtest certificate

    Vision test from any optician. Costs 7-10€.

43 €
Approximate administrative fee: 35-43€. Sehtest at an optician: 7-10€. €43.00
€43.00
€43.00

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Take the Sehtest at an optician

    Go to any optician (Optiker) and ask for the Sehtest für den Führerschein. 5 minutes, 7-10€.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Fielmann is the most widespread optician chain in Germany. You can find it in almost every shopping center."

  • 2

    Book an appointment at the Bürgeramt for the exchange

    Book an appointment online by selecting 'Führerschein — Umtausch'.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Appointments may take 2-4 weeks. Book as soon as possible."

  • 3

    Attend with all the documentation

    Original license, Anmeldebestätigung, passport/ID, biometric photo, and Sehtest. The officer will retain the license and give you a provisional document.

    !

    Expert tip

    "The provisional document (Prüfungsbescheinigung) allows you to drive while you wait for the German license."

  • 4

    Wait for the German driver's license

    It arrives by mail in 3-6 months after verification with the Spanish DGT.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Always keep the provisional document in the car."

Offices and service points - Colonia

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive while waiting for the exchange?
Yes. You can use the Spanish license until it is retained. Then the provisional document (Prüfungsbescheinigung) is valid.
Can Latin Americans exchange their driver's license?
It depends on the country. Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, Chile have agreements with Germany. Check the updated list on your city's portal before starting the process.

Trámites relacionados

This procedure in other cities

Official sources and useful links

This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.