Old driver's license? The mandatory exchange affects almost everyone
Anyone who still has an old gray or pink paper driver's license or an older card license must exchange it. This is a pure document exchange, not a new test. The only important thing is not to miss your personal deadline.
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What you should do now
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1. Determine the deadline
Check your cut-off date based on the year of birth (paper license) or year of issue (card license).
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2. Prepare the documents
Have a current passport photo, identity card and the old driver's license ready.
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3. Apply for the exchange
Apply for the exchange at the driver's license office of your place of residence.
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4. Take care of it in time
See to it before the deadline expires to avoid fines.
Frequently asked questions
Must I exchange my old driver's license?
Yes. Old paper and older card driver's licenses must be exchanged for the uniform EU card driver's license by staggered cut-off dates. The deadline applying to you depends, for paper licenses, on the year of birth, and for card licenses on the year of issue. It is only a document exchange, without a new test.
What happens if I miss the exchange deadline?
Your driving entitlement remains, but the document is no longer valid. Anyone who then drives with the old license commits an administrative offense and must expect a caution or fine. In that case, catch up on the exchange as quickly as possible.
Take action now
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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.