Working hours for apprentices (Azubis) in Germany – rules, breaks, and rights

First: Working hours for apprentices (Azubis)

For those under 18 (minors)
They are covered by the Youth Employment Protection Act (Jugendarbeitsschutzgesetz):

• Maximum per day: 8 hours (or 8.5 hours if compensated later)

• Maximum per week: 40 hours

• Night work: not allowed after 20:00 (exceptions may apply in certain occupations)

• Work on public holidays: generally prohibited, with limited exceptions in specific sectors

• Working days: only 5 days per week (two rest days, preferably consecutive)

For those 18 and older
They fall under general labor rules, mainly the Working Time Act (Arbeitszeitgesetz):

• Maximum per day: 8 hours (can be extended up to 10 hours if compensated within 6 months)

• Maximum per week: 48 hours

• Weekly rest: at least one day off within every 7 days

Break rules (rest breaks)

• More than 6 hours of work: at least 30 minutes of break time (can be split into two breaks, each at least 15 minutes)

• More than 9 hours of work: at least 45 minutes of break time

• A break must be taken no later than after 6 hours from the start of work.

Daily rest time between two working days
According to Section 5 of the Working Time Act: at least 11 consecutive hours of rest between the end of one working day and the start of the next.

Practical example (adult apprentice, 19 years old)

• Start: 08:00

• End: 16:30

• Break: 12:00 – 12:30

Result:

• 8 working hours

• 30-minute break

• Compliant with the law

What if the training company violates these rules?
You can file a complaint with:

• the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK)

• or the local occupational health and safety authority (Arbeitsschutzbehörde)

Repeated violations may lead to fines up to €15,000 (depending on the type of violation, it can be higher) or further legal action.

Quick summary

• Under 18: 8 hours/day – 40 hours/week – breaks depending on working time

• 18 and older: 8–10 hours/day – 48 hours/week – 30–45 minutes break depending on working time

The editorial team aims to provide accurate information through extensive research and multiple sources; however, mistakes or unconfirmed details may occur. Please treat this as initial guidance and consult the competent authorities for confirmed information.