Germany mandates driver's license exchange and reports high exam failure rates

Germany is implementing a mandatory exchange of old paper and older credit-card style driver's licenses for a new, EU-standardized, forgery-proof version. According to the ADAC, approximately 15 million paper licenses and 28 million older card licenses must be replaced to ensure uniformity and prevent misuse through centralized database registration.

The exchange must be completed at the local licensing authority of the holder's current place of residence. The process requires an application, a valid ID or passport, a biometric photo, and the current license, costing approximately 25 euros. Failure to comply with the deadlines may result in a 10-euro fine. For paper licenses issued before December 31, 1998, the deadline is determined by the holder's birth year; for example, those born in 1971 or later were required to exchange theirs by January 19, 2025.

In a separate development regarding driver training, data from the TÜV association indicates that many learners struggle with the theoretical portion of the exam. Reports suggest that in 2025, nearly half of adults over 18 failed the theory test on their first attempt.