The practical driving test in Germany (2025 update)
Introduction
The practical driving test is the decisive milestone on the way to obtaining a German driving licence. It is the moment when the learner must prove that they can drive safely in real traffic under the supervision of an expert examiner from TÜV or DEKRA.
Since the introduction of the “Optimised Practical Driver Testing Procedure” (OPFEP) in 2021, the test has become longer, fully digital and much more detailed in its assessment criteria, with continuous updates to its duration and evaluation methods up to spring 2025 (Deutscher Verkehrssicherheitsrat, Deutscher Verkehrssicherheitsrat).
1. Duration and structure of the test
Element – Details
Total duration:
55 minutes for category B:
5 minutes preparation,
30 minutes actual driving,
10 minutes mandatory manoeuvres,
10 minutes debriefing and feedback (Deutscher Verkehrssicherheitsrat).
Main sections:
Safety check (Abfahrtkontrolle) → urban driving → country road → motorway (if available) → special manoeuvres (parking, reversing, emergency braking).
Assessment:
Carried out via an electronic protocol on a tablet, which records your performance based on a nationwide standardised catalogue (fahrschule-123.de, Deutscher Verkehrssicherheitsrat).
2. Before the test day: eligibility requirements
Completion of all Sonderfahrten (special lessons): a total of 12 mandatory drives at night, on rural roads and on motorways.
Successful completion of the theoretical test within the last two years.
Payment of the practical test fee (around €130–163 at TÜV/DEKRA, slightly varying by federal state) plus the exam presentation fee charged by the driving school (usually €80–120) (ADAC, TÜV SÜD).
Scheduling the appointment via the driving school; all appointments are booked exclusively through the examiner’s system, and individual requests from learners are not accepted (DEKRA).
3. Step-by-step test procedure
Identity check
The examiner checks your ID card/passport and the Prüfauftrag (test authorisation).
Vehicle check (Abfahrtkontrolle)
Checking lights, oil level, tyre pressure, horn.
You may be asked to briefly explain the function of a button or assistance system (e.g. ESP, parking assist, adaptive cruise control).
Urban driving
Applying right-of-way rules, dealing with narrow streets and junctions.
Driving in 30 km/h zones and residential areas.
Consistent use of mirrors and shoulder checks when changing lanes or turning.
Country road
Adjusting speed to curves, visibility and road conditions.
Safely overtaking cyclists and slower vehicles.
Reading and responding to traffic signs in advance.
Motorway (if possible)
Safe acceleration on the slip road.
Merging into traffic while maintaining legal following distances.
Changing lanes and exiting the motorway as instructed.
Special manoeuvres
Parking: e.g. parallel or reverse parking into a marked space.
Reversing: e.g. reversing around a corner (L-shape).
Emergency braking from around 50 km/h on command.
Digital debriefing
After parking, the examiner reviews the electronic protocol and gives you detailed verbal feedback, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. A PDF report is then provided via the driving school’s app or by email.
4. Assessment criteria in OPFEP
Performance is divided into ten observation areas, including:
Vehicle control and operation,
compliance with traffic rules,
interaction with other road users,
eco-friendly and efficient driving,
ability to anticipate and avoid risks (TÜV SÜD).
Each mistake is recorded and classified as minor, medium or critical.
A single critical error leads to immediate failure, for example:
running a red light,
forcing another road user to brake hard or swerve,
causing or nearly causing an accident due to serious negligence.
5. The most common reasons for failing
Ignoring right of way: not coming to a complete stop at a STOP sign or failing to yield correctly in a roundabout.
Insufficient mirror and shoulder checks: changing lanes or turning without a clear shoulder glance.
Incorrect speed judgement: entering rural bends too fast or merging too slowly onto the motorway.
Insufficient safety distance: driving with less than a two-second gap to the vehicle ahead.
Repeated parking errors: hitting the kerb or parking more than 50 cm outside the marked space.
6. Fees and retaking the test
The examiner’s fee is charged for every attempt.
The test can be retaken after a minimum waiting period of two weeks; after a third consecutive failure, the examiner can extend the waiting period to four weeks (ADAC).
If one year passes without a successful practical test, your theory test result expires, and you must retake the theory exam before booking a new practical date.
7. Golden tips for success
Full simulation: ask your instructor for a 55-minute mock test that mirrors the real exam without lengthy explanations.
Don’t memorise the route – learn the principles: the test uses varied situations within the test area, not a fixed route. Focus on rules, not roads.
Manage your stress: take a deep breath before starting, and take your time adjusting seat and mirrors properly.
Communicate clearly with the examiner: if you did not hear a direction clearly, calmly repeat it in your own words – it shows accuracy and responsibility.
Practise the Abfahrtkontrolle: two minutes of calm, confident vehicle checks at the start can create a positive impression and prevent avoidable mistakes.
Conclusion
The practical driving test in Germany in 2025 combines strict assessment with precise digital documentation. By understanding its structure, preparing mentally and practising real-life situations, you can turn 55 minutes of challenge into a licence to mobility and independence in Germany and across the EU. Drive safely!
The editorial team strives to provide accurate information based on careful research and multiple sources. However, errors or uncertainties cannot be completely ruled out. The content of this article should therefore be regarded as an initial guide only; for binding and up-to-date information, always consult the relevant authorities.
