Driving after arrival: arrange your U.S. Forces license
Confirm the license you need before collecting a car. An online answer about tourists or civilian residents may not cover a PCS assignment.
Last recorded review: 2026-07-27. Requirements can change; confirm with the linked source or responsible office. Boris is independent of the DoD.
Start with the installation licensing office
Ramstein’s official motor-vehicle page says assigned personnel need a U.S. Forces license; an international license is not accepted as a substitute. Contact the installation licensing office for the requirements for each driver in your household. Do not assume a civilian six-month rule or a rumored arrival grace period authorizes you to drive.
Get a written plan for each driver
Ask what training, tests and documents apply to your situation. Explain whether you are the sponsor, a family member, a civilian employee or a contractor, and ask separately about a younger driver.
Check the car and any onward travel
A driver’s license does not complete the vehicle’s insurance and registration steps. Confirm those arrangements before collecting it. If you plan to drive outside Germany, ask what additional documents the destination requires.
In the Boris app
Use the free KMC checklist in Boris to organize your next steps. No account required.
