The problem is **not** from where you apply for an official document, but where it is printed. The application process is done electronically. For Passport and/or ID (which can be done together) a form for each is printed out with all relevant data. The photo is pasted on to the form and the fingerprints taken. The finished application is then scanned in. After checking that everything was correct, it was submitted. Using the same photo, the process was repeated for the second application. Since the [Bundesdruckerei][0] in Berlin prints all documents for the whole country, the 1,317 (2007) employees have a lot to do. Depending on the demand, certain documents are only printed at certain times. As to the logistics of sending the documents back to the issuing authority, I cannot say. 6-8/10 weeks is normal. For passports you are often notified when it is ready to be picked up (for drivers license I don't know). --- >[Bundesdruckerei][0] ("Federal Printer") is a German manufacturer of banknotes, stamps, identity cards, **passports**, visas, **driving licences**, and vehicle registration certificates. --- **Sources**: - [Bundesdruckerei][0] [0]:https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bundesdruckerei