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How to exchange your Spanish driving license in Düsseldorf (2026)

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Cost

€43.00

Approximate administrative fee 35-43€. Eye test at the optician: 7-10€.

Time at office

30-45 minutes at the appointment

Estimated time

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

Quick summary

A step-by-step guide to exchange your Spanish driving license for a German one in Düsseldorf. Required documents, cost, and time of the exchange process at the Bürgeramt.

Required documents

  • Original driving license

    The original Spanish driving license to exchange. It is retained during the process.

  • Registration confirmation

    Confirmation of residence registration.

  • Passport or ID card

    Valid identity document.

  • Biometric photo

    Recent photo with a light background.

  • Vision test certificate

    Vision test at any optician. It costs 7-10€.

43 €
Approximate administrative fee 35-43€. Eye test at the optician: 7-10€. €43.00
€43.00
€43.00

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Get the vision test 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 largest optician chain in Germany. You can find it in almost all shopping centers."

  • 2

    Book an appointment at the Bürgeramt for the exchange

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

    !

    Expert tip

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

  • 3

    Attend with all the required documents

    Original driving license, registration confirmation, passport/ID card, biometric photo, and vision test. The official retains the driving license and gives you a provisional document.

    !

    Expert tip

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

  • 4

    Wait for the German driving license

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

    !

    Expert tip

    "Keep the provisional document in the car at all times."

Offices and service points - Dusseldorf

Bürgeramt Düsseldorf

Frequently asked questions

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