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AP's avatar

I've never found a clear answer as to why each U.S. state has a separate agreement with each German state. My understanding is that a California license can be exchanged in Brandenburg, but not Berlin (if one lives in Brandenburg, of course). It doesn't make much sense and I've often wondered if it's due to some sort of data sharing rules... perhaps California won't give Berlin as much detail as they require for an exchange? Regardless, it's pretty ridiculous to have a system like this - I'm of the firm belief that *everyone* should have to pass some sort of driving test when living in a new country to prove they understand the idiosyncrasies of each country's rules and regulations. But it shouldn't be based on where you came from and starting from scratch. I guarantee spending several years braving Los Angeles traffic is better preparation than someone who lived in suburban Arizona their entire life.

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Maurice Frank's avatar

100%. Driving in New Mexico and Colorado did not prepare me for the Autobahn or grouchy, aggro Berlin drivers. And I was clueless about German road signs.

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