How to Get Your USAREUR License at Ramstein

What Is a USAREUR License?

A USAREUR license — short for U.S. Army Europe license — is the official driver’s license issued to U.S.-affiliated personnel living and working in Germany. It’s required under AEA Reg 190-1 and serves as your authorization to drive on German roads while assigned here.

One important thing to know upfront: an international driver’s license or international driving permit is not an acceptable substitute. No matter how recently you obtained one back home, you’ll still need to go through the USAREUR licensing process once you’re assigned to Germany. This catches a lot of newcomers off guard, so it’s worth knowing before you arrive.

Who Needs One?

All personnel assigned to Germany are required to hold a valid USAREUR license to drive. That includes:

• Active duty service members
• DoD civilian employees
• Contractors working on installation
• Eligible family members of the above

If you’re part of the KMC community and plan to get behind the wheel at any point — even just for a grocery run to the Commissary — you’ll need this license before you drive.

What to Bring

Getting your documents together ahead of time makes the appointment go much faster. While exact requirements can vary and you should confirm the current list directly with the licensing office, you’ll typically need:

• AEA Form 190-1T — the official USAREUR driver’s license application form
• A valid U.S. state driver’s license (your current home state license)
• Passport-style photos
• Military ID, passport, or other government-issued identification
• Orders or proof of assignment to Germany (if applicable)

Requirements do get updated, so it’s always worth a quick call to the office before your appointment to make sure you’re not missing anything.

Booking Your Appointment

Appointments are required for nearly all USAREUR licensing services — walk-ins are generally not accepted. The one exception is International Driver Permit applications, which do not require an appointment.

Book your appointment online at the USAREUR Licensing appointment portal on Waitwhile. The system is straightforward and lets you see available slots ahead of time.

Location: Ramstein AB — Building 2106, Room 201

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00–11:00 and 13:00–15:00
(Closed on Federal Holidays and Family Days)

Phone: DSN 480-5534 / Commercial +49-6371-47-5534

What to Expect on Appointment Day

Plan to arrive a few minutes early with all your documents in hand. The process typically involves submitting your application (AEA Form 190-1T), having your paperwork reviewed, and in some cases completing a written knowledge test covering German traffic laws and road signs.

If a test is required, don’t stress — study guides and practice materials are available at the licensing office to help you prepare. The questions focus on right-of-way rules, speed limits, and road markings that differ from U.S. standards.

After You Get Your USAREUR License

Once you have your USAREUR license, you’re good to drive throughout Germany and, in many cases, across other European countries as well. Keep an eye on the expiration date — renewals go through the same licensing office.

Having your USAREUR license opens up a lot of freedom here in the KMC. Road trips to the Mosel Valley, weekend drives to the Alsace, or just navigating the Autobahn with confidence — it all starts with getting this one document sorted.

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