Does Working on Brakes Require a Meister Title?
Yes – in most cases, based on:
Annex A to the German Crafts Code (Handwerksordnung – HwO)
– specifically: No. 29 – Motor Vehicle Technician Trade (Kraftfahrzeugtechniker-Handwerk)
This trade is classified as a craft subject to Meisterpflicht (mandatory master craftsman requirement).
Any commercial work on safety-related systems (such as brakes, steering, lighting) may only be carried out under the supervision of a Meister or by a person holding a special Ausübungsberechtigung (authorization to practice).
| Type of work | Meisterpflicht? |
|---|---|
| Replacing brake pads or brake discs | Yes |
| Checking or changing brake fluid | Yes |
| Repairing brake drums, brake cylinders, or brake pump | Yes |
| Visual inspection only, without any adjustment | No |
| Providing advice only, without installation or repair | No |
As soon as there is an actual intervention in the safety or braking system, the work is considered “gefahrgeneigt” (hazard-prone) and requires qualified, officially recognized technical supervision.
Yes, but they are limited:
| Situation | Is the work allowed? |
|---|---|
| Employee working under the supervision of a Meister | Yes |
| Completed training as Kfz-Mechatroniker without Meister title | Work on vehicles is allowed, but no independent workshop and no employment of other workers |
| Workshop without a Meister or with an unrecognized responsible person | Legally prohibited |
Employment relationship with a Meister
Hiring a master craftsman as technical manager (Technischer Betriebsleiter).
Ausübungsberechtigung under § 7b HwO
You can apply for this if you have many years of professional experience (typically at least 6 years, including 4+ years in a leading position).
Cooperation with an external Meister workshop
Legally structured cooperation with a licensed Meister-operated workshop that acts as your technical partner (possible only in defined situations).
| Violation | Possible sanction |
|---|---|
| Performing brake work without a Meister | Violation of craft regulations (Handwerksrecht) |
| Workshop not registered in the Handwerksrolle | Closure of the business + fines |
| Accident caused by unauthorised or improper work | Possible civil liability + criminal consequences |
The editorial team of this website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and consultation of multiple sources. However, errors may occur or certain information may not be fully verified. Therefore, please treat the information in these articles as an initial reference only and always contact the competent authorities for final, officially confirmed details.
