German Driving Licence – Categories T and S (2025)
Including clarification that Category S was abolished and replaced by AM
First – Category T: Tractors and agricultural machinery up to 60 km/h
| Item | Brief details |
|---|---|
| Permitted vehicles | Agricultural/forestry tractors and towing machines with a design speed ≤ 60 km/h, including trailers intended for agricultural work. |
| Minimum age | 16 for ≤ 40 km/h; 18 up to 60 km/h. (adac.de) |
| Use | Agricultural/forestry work only, and transporting crops/equipment between fields and villages. |
| Mandatory theory | 12 basic lessons + 6 tractor-specialist lessons (90 min per lesson). (adac.de) |
| Theory test | 30 questions; maximum error score 10 points. |
| Mandatory practical | Standard training + Sonderfahrten (5 rural / 2 motorway / 3 night); practical test duration ≈ 70 min (about 35 min actual driving). (adac.de) |
| Real-world speeds | In towns 50 km/h like other vehicles; outside towns up to 40 or 60 depending on licence restriction. |
| Validity & renewal | Card valid for 15 years, then administrative replacement; no additional medical exam unless used commercially. |
Why do you need Category T?
To operate modern harvesters/tractors that can travel 50–60 km/h over relatively longer distances.
To tow heavier grain/bale trailers beyond Category L limits (12 t).
Estimated costs (2025)
| Cost item | Range (€) |
|---|---|
| Driving school + materials | 350 – 550 |
| Practical lessons (≈ 25 h) | 1,300 – 1,700 |
| Sonderfahrten | 600 – 850 |
| Theory exam | 25 |
| Practical exam | 170 – 230 |
| Eye test / first aid / photos | 40 – 60 |
| Total | 2,500 – 3,400 |
Second – Category S: a name that disappeared and is now AM
| What S allowed (before 2013) | Status today |
|---|---|
| Light three-/four-wheeled vehicles ≤ 45 km/h, ≤ 50 cm³ or 4 kW, unladen mass ≤ 350 kg. | Merged into M → AM on 19 January 2013. (Bußgeldkatalog) |
What does that mean for you?
If you are looking for “Category S”, you need AM today (or you already have it automatically if you hold Category B).
Minimum age for AM is 15 within Germany (full EU validity from 16). (Bußgeldkatalog)
Quick comparison: T vs L vs AM (replacement for S)
| Aspect | T | L | AM (replaces S) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max speed | 60 km/h | 40 km/h | 45 km/h |
| Minimum age | 16/18 | 16 | 15/16 |
| Weight | up to the tractor’s limit | ≤ 12 t | ≤ 350 kg (vehicle) |
| Use | agricultural/forestry only | agricultural/forestry | personal urban/local mobility |
| Full practical exam | yes | short | short |
FAQ
Can I use Category T for commercial work outside agriculture?
No. Category T is restricted to agricultural/forestry activity; for commercial services you need C/CE.
What happens to old S holders?
At the first card replacement, S is automatically carried over to AM without an additional test. (adac.de)
Does T replace L?
Yes. Category T automatically includes the privileges of Category L.
Conclusion
T: The right choice if you need tractors/agricultural machinery up to 60 km/h and higher towing capacity for rural roads and farm work.
S: A historical label—today you obtain AM for light vehicles ≤ 45 km/h.
By understanding speed, weight and age requirements, you can choose the right licence for your purpose—whether you are a professional farmer or a local user of a light vehicle. Drive safely and have a successful harvest! (adac.de, Bußgeldkatalog, adac.de)
— The authors and editors aim to provide accurate information through thorough research and multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some details may be unconfirmed. Please treat this as initial guidance and always consult the competent authorities for verified information.
