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Now let's go. The first drivers license holders have to swap their old rags.
The countdown has long since started. By 2033 all exhibited before 2013 should driving licenses be replaced by forgery-proof copies. The exchange of around 43 million licenses takes place in annual stages. The cut-off date is January 19th. The basis for the action is the EU Directive 2006/126 / EC, which provides for a Europe-wide, uniform and forgery-proof driving license from 2033.
What's the timeframe?
First, the old ones made of paper, which were issued until December 31.12.1998, XNUMX, are up for grabs. The year of birth of the driver's license holder is decisive here. The reason for this is that the date of issue of these paper documents is often no longer legible.
It starts with the owners who were born between 1953 and 1958. You must have changed your old paper driving license for a forgery-proof copy by January 19.1.2022, 2023. In 1959, those born between 1964 and 2024 will be in demand. 1965 is the key year for the age group from 1970 to 2025, 1971 for those born after 1953. Anyone who saw the light of day before 2033 can take their time. You don't need to take action before XNUMX. The reason for this is the fact that it is still unclear how many of them will still actively drive cars due to their age.
For all card driving licenses issued after 1.1.1999, only the date of issue applies. They will be exchanged from 2026. This also applies to those that were purchased before 1999, but were reissued, for example because of loss, theft or the desire for the more manageable credit card format.
How long is the new driver's license valid?
Unlike before, the documents lose their validity after 15 years. They then have to be renewed, such as the identity card or passport. For those exhibited from January 19, 2013, the 15-year period of validity already applies. The time limit is intended to make forgeries more difficult, as passport photos and personal data are regularly updated.
Which driving license classes are accepted?
The driving authorization classes acquired with the test continue to apply and are entered in the new document according to the current classification.
Which documents are required?
In addition to an identity card or passport, you must bring your driver's license and a current, biometric passport photo. If the driver's license was not issued in the area of validity of the competent authority, an extract from the local driver's license register, the so-called index card copy, is required.
What are the fees?
At the moment you have to reckon with around 25 euros. There are also costs for the photo. If you don't pick up your driving license yourself, but have it sent to you, you have to pay extra for it.
What happens if you don't exchange?
Anyone who drives with an old driver's license commits an administrative offense that entails a fine of 10 euros.
How much time do you have to plan for the exchange process?
Due to Corona measures in the administration, the processing process can be delayed and the previously usual six to eight weeks can be exceeded. Those wishing to exchange should therefore try to make an appointment as early as possible. This is especially true for the baby boomers who will have to swap their driving licenses from 2023.
Will the exchange deadlines be extended due to Corona?
No. As the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport informs, the deadlines remain. However, a uniform nationwide procedure is under discussion that if an old driver's license is presented, a fine as a sanction is currently waived. Instead, a six-month period should be allowed to submit a valid EU driving license.
Can I exchange earlier?
Yes. If you want, you can apply for a new driver's license before your official exchange date.