EU/EEA driver's licenses in harmonized categories (categories AM, A1, A2, A, B, BE, C1, C1E, C, CE, D1, D1E, D and DE) do not generally require a transfer.

A transfer is required if the validity of the driving license or the period of validity of the driving license or individual driving license categories is due to be extended after taking up residence in Germany.

Please note:
In the case of driving license categories that are limited in Germany (categories C and D as well as corresponding subcategories and trailer categories), the German period of validity also applies if no or longer periods are entered in the foreign driving license.

Holders of EU/EEA driver's licenses for non-harmonized categories may drive motor vehicles in Germany within the scope of their entitlement after taking up residence in Germany as long as the foreign driver's license is valid, but for no longer than 6 months. If a motor vehicle is to continue to be driven in Germany after this period, a German driving license must be issued on the basis of the foreign driving license (so-called transfer). See also: Transferring a foreign (non-EU/EEA) driving license (service description in the Hessen-Finder).

The Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMVI) provides detailed information on the recognition of foreign driving licenses in Germany on its website under "Validity of foreign driving licenses in the Federal Republic of Germany".

There you will also find an "Information sheet for holders of foreign driving licenses from EU and EEA states on driving license regulations in the Federal Republic of Germany".