Types of Driving Licenses in Germany 2026 | Complete Führerschein Guide
Complete guide to all German driving license categories - from Class AM mopeds to Class CE trucks. Learn about requirements, costs, and the testing process for each Führerschein class.
Germany has one of the most comprehensive driving license systems in Europe, with 16 different license categories covering everything from mopeds to heavy trucks and buses. Understanding which license you need - and what it takes to get it - is essential whether you're a young driver starting out, looking to upgrade, or planning to drive commercially. This guide covers every German driving license class (Führerscheinklasse) in detail.
Motorcycle License Categories
Germany offers a progressive motorcycle license system that allows riders to gain experience before moving to more powerful bikes:
Class AM - Mopeds
For mopeds up to 45 km/h and 50cc. Minimum age 15-16 depending on federal state. Entry-level license for two-wheeled transport.
Class A1 - Light Motorcycles
For motorcycles up to 125cc and 11 kW (15 hp). Minimum age 16. Perfect stepping stone to larger bikes.
Class A2 - Medium Motorcycles
For motorcycles up to 35 kW (48 hp). Minimum age 18. Most popular route to full motorcycle license.
Class A - Full Motorcycle
Unlimited motorcycle license. Minimum age 24 (or 20 with 2 years A2 experience). No power restrictions.
Car License Categories
The Class B license and its extensions cover most personal vehicle needs:
Class B - Standard Car
Vehicles up to 3,500 kg with up to 9 seats. Minimum age 18 (17 with accompanied driving). The most common license in Germany.
Class BE - Car with Heavy Trailer
Class B vehicle with trailer over 750 kg (trailer up to 3,500 kg). Required for towing larger caravans and boat trailers.
Class B96 - Car with Medium Trailer
Extension for trailer combinations between 3,500-4,250 kg total. No separate test required, only training course.
Class B196 - 125cc Motorcycle Extension
Allows Class B holders to ride 125cc motorcycles. Requires 5+ years holding B license, age 25+, and additional training. Valid only in Germany.
Truck License Categories
Commercial truck licenses require additional medical examinations and have 5-year validity:
Class C1 - Light Truck
Trucks 3,500-7,500 kg. Minimum age 18. Popular for delivery vehicles, ambulances, and medium motorhomes.
Class C - Heavy Truck
Trucks over 3,500 kg with no upper limit. Minimum age 21. Essential for professional truck drivers.
Class C1E - Light Truck with Trailer
Class C1 vehicle with trailer over 750 kg. Combined weight up to 12,000 kg.
Class CE - Heavy Truck with Trailer
Class C vehicle with heavy trailer. Maximum truck-trailer combinations up to 40+ tons. The highest commercial truck license.
Bus License Categories
Bus licenses have the strictest medical and background check requirements:
Class D1 - Minibus
Buses for 9-16 passengers. Minimum age 21. Common for shuttle services and small tour buses.
Class D - Full Bus
Buses for more than 8 passengers (no limit). Minimum age 24. Required for city buses and coaches.
Class D1E - Minibus with Trailer
Class D1 vehicle with trailer over 750 kg. For tour operators needing luggage trailers.
Class DE - Bus with Trailer
Class D vehicle with heavy trailer. Includes articulated buses. The most comprehensive passenger transport license.
Agricultural Vehicle Categories
Special licenses for farming and forestry vehicles:
Class L - Small Tractors
Tractors up to 40 km/h for agricultural use. Minimum age 16. Automatically included with Class B.
Class T - Large Tractors
Tractors up to 60 km/h for agricultural/forestry use. Minimum age 16 (limited to 40 km/h until 18). Full practical test required.
The German Testing Process
Obtaining a German license involves several steps:
- Enroll at a certified driving school (Fahrschule) - mandatory in Germany
- Complete required theory lessons (12 basic + category-specific)
- Pass the Theoretische Prüfung (theory test) - 30 questions, max 10 error points
- Complete minimum practical driving hours including special drives
- Obtain first aid certificate and eye test results
- Pass the Praktische Prüfung (practical test) - 45-70 minutes in real traffic
- Receive your license card (Führerschein)
General Requirements
All German license applicants must meet these requirements:
- Valid identification (ID card or passport)
- Proof of residence in Germany
- Eye test certificate (Sehtest) - from optician or ophthalmologist
- First aid course certificate (Erste-Hilfe-Kurs) - 9 units of 45 minutes
- Biometric passport photo
- Medical examination for commercial licenses (C, D classes)
Validity & Renewal
German licenses have different validity periods depending on category:
- Car/motorcycle licenses (A, B, BE): License valid indefinitely, card renewed every 15 years
- Commercial licenses (C, D classes): Valid 5 years, requires medical re-examination
- No retesting needed for renewals (unless medical issues arise)
- Old paper licenses must be exchanged by January 2033 (EU regulation)
EU Compatibility
German licenses are fully EU-standardized:
- Valid in all 27 EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway
- No exchange required when moving within EU/EEA
- International Driving Permit (IDP) recommended for non-EU countries
- Foreign license exchange agreements with many countries including US states, Canada, Japan
Special Permits & Extensions
Additional permits available for specific situations:
BF17 - Accompanied Driving
Start driving at 17 with a registered accompanying person. Statistics show lower accident rates for BF17 graduates. Unrestricted at 18.
Schlüsselzahl (Key Numbers)
Code additions to licenses indicating restrictions or extensions (e.g., automatic-only, glasses required, B196 extension).
Mofa Certificate
For low-power mopeds up to 25 km/h. Minimum age 15. Not a full license but a driving certificate (Prüfbescheinigung).
Typical Costs
Estimated costs vary by region and individual needs:
- Driving school registration: €200-400
- Theory materials and lessons: €100-200
- Practical lessons (€35-65 each): €1,200-2,500 (20-40 lessons typical)
- Theory test fee: €22-25
- Practical test fee: €116-180
- First aid course: €20-40
- Eye test: €6-10
- Total for Class B: €1,800-3,500 (Munich/Hamburg higher, smaller cities lower)
Tips for Success
Maximize your chances of passing:
- Choose a reputable driving school with high pass rates and good reviews
- Study theory thoroughly - the German test requires deep understanding, not just memorization
- Practice in various conditions (rain, night, autobahn)
- Complete first aid and eye test early - don't let them delay your exam
- Budget for extra lessons - almost no one passes with minimum lessons only
- Learn the test routes - your instructor knows typical examiner routes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners get a German driving license?▼
Yes, anyone with valid German residency can apply. EU/EEA licenses are valid indefinitely. Non-EU licenses are valid for 6 months, after which you must exchange or test. Germany has exchange agreements with many countries.
How long does it take to get a German license?▼
Typically 3-6 months for Class B with regular lesson attendance. Intensive courses can be faster but are demanding. Test availability can affect timing, especially for practical exams.
Can I take the test in English?▼
The theory test is available in 13 languages including English. However, the practical test is conducted in German only - but basic driving commands are simple and your school will prepare you.
What if I fail the test?▼
You can retake after a waiting period (usually 2 weeks). Most schools recommend additional lessons before retry. There is no limit on attempts, but costs add up quickly.
Conclusion
The German driving license system is comprehensive but well-structured. While the requirements are strict, they result in well-trained drivers and some of Europe's safest roads. Whether you need a simple car license or a commercial truck permit, understanding the right category and preparation requirements is your first step to driving success in Germany.
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