When do you need the AEVO exam? Almost always, if you want to train an apprentice officially registered under § 28 BBiG.
Who can train apprentices in Germany?
The occupation must be a recognized training profession (e.g., sales clerk, hairdresser, retail clerk).
The company must be authorized (providing tasks, equipment, qualified supervision).
A certified trainer must be present:
Holds AEVO certificate (AdA-Schein), or
Holds a Meister title in a craft (exempt from AEVO).
When is AEVO not required?
If another AEVO-certified person in the company is officially responsible.
If you are a Meister in a craft profession.
AEVO exam details:
Official name: Ausbildereignungsprüfung nach AEVO
Organized by: IHK or HWK
Content: Planning – Preparation – Execution – Completion
Exam: written (multiple choice) + practical (presentation + interview)
Duration: prep course usually 3–5 weeks (or online)
Cost: €450–750 depending on city
Result: AdA-Schein, valid for life
Summary:
Small shop owner training themselves → AEVO required
Qualified employee with AEVO → sufficient
Craft profession + Meisterbrief → exempt
Non-Auszubildende activity → not applicable
