Offices for swapping and replacing driving licences

Online, by appointment or both: it depends on your city

Many cities take licence swaps at a citizens’ office, while others use a separate driving licence authority. Whether you can apply online with a digital ID, and whether the new card must be collected in person, depends on the city. The right counter may also depend on your situation, such as an old paper licence or a lorry or bus category.

1 office in Bochum
  • Bochum

    Büro für Kfz-Angelegenheiten — Fahr- und Beförderungserlaubnisse

    Bulksmühle 17, 44809 Bochum

    Book an appointment to swap a paper licence or older card, and come in person to sign for the new one.

    Bring valid ID/passport, the existing licence and a compliant 35 × 45 mm photograph. If a paper licence was issued outside Bochum, arrange a Karteikartenabschrift from the issuing authority beforehand to avoid delays. Ask about medical/eyesight evidence where retaining older truck entitlements or extending categories requires it. The procedure accepts cash or EC card; confirm any extra charges before ordering.

Related services

Other everyday services in Germany

Other countries

The same task in other countries

Moving on, or comparing before you decide? See how this works elsewhere.

Where to next

Renew or replace your German licence

For drivers who already hold a German licence. See which situation applies to you and where to ask for the new card.

Renew a German driving licence