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BF17 (Accompanied Driving from Age 17) in Germany – Updated Guide for 2025
1. Concept and legal basis
The Begleitetes Fahren ab 17 (BF17) scheme allows applicants for a Category B licence to pass both the theory and practical tests before turning 18, and then start driving from their 17th birthday — but only when a registered accompanying person is in the vehicle. This privilege remains valid within Germany only (single exception: Austria) until the driver turns 18, when the “test certificate” is typically replaced automatically by the regular licence card. (Bußgeldkatalog, adac.de)
2. Ages and stages
| Stage | Earliest allowed time | What happens in practice |
|---|---|---|
| Theory lessons | 6 months before turning 17 | 12 basic lessons + 2 Category B lessons |
| Theory test | 3 months before turning 17 | 30 questions; 10-point error limit |
| Practical test | 1 month before turning 17 | about 55 minutes under OPFEP |
| Driving with an accompanier | from the 17th birthday until 23:59 before the 18th birthday | carry the “test certificate” + ID |
| Conversion to unrestricted licence | first day after turning 18 | licence card issued automatically (free in many states) |
3. Requirements for the young driver
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Must be at least 17 on the day they start driving.
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Completion of a first-aid course, an eyesight test, and a biometric photo.
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No pending driving ban and no previous licence withdrawal/suspension on record.
4. Requirements for the accompanying person (Begleitperson)
| Requirement | Standard | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum age | 30 | (Begleitetes Fahren ab 17) |
| Category B licence held | at least 5 continuous years | (Begleitetes Fahren ab 17) |
| Penalty points | ≤ 1 point in Flensburg register | (Begleitetes Fahren ab 17) |
| Alcohol while accompanying | limit 0.5 ‰ (driver: 0.0 ‰) | (Begleitetes Fahren ab 17) |
| Drugs | absolute prohibition | (Begleitetes Fahren ab 17) |
Every accompanier must be listed in advance on the official application and must carry a valid ID on every trip.
5. Rules for the young driver
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0.0 ‰ alcohol and any drug use is strictly prohibited up to age 21 (applies to all drivers under 21). (kanzleiwehner.de)
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Follow speed limits and the points system; serious violations extend the probation period and may trigger an Aufbauseminar.
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Driving abroad is prohibited until 18 (single exception: Austria). (adac.de)
6. Approximate costs (2025)
| Item | Range (€) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Driving school fee + materials | 300 – 500 | paid once for B and BF17 |
| Regular training (avg. 20 hours) | 1,000 – 1,400 | €50–€70 per 45 min |
| Special rides (12 hours) | 600 – 850 | rural, motorway, night |
| Theory exam | 25 | TÜV/DEKRA fee |
| Practical exam | 100 | “ ” |
| Eyesight/first aid/photos | 40 – 60 | |
| Total | 1,800 – 2,900 | varies by state and skills |
7. Application steps
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Fill out “Ersterteilung Klasse B (BF17)” at the licensing authority (Fahrerlaubnisbehörde).
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Attach a questionnaire for each accompanier, their signature, and a copy of their ID.
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Pay the fee (around €45).
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Receive approval and book the exams through the driving school.
8. Benefits
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According to ADAC data, accident rates drop by about 20% in the first year after ending accompanied driving. (adac.de)
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With Category B, Categories AM and L are typically granted automatically, allowing certain light vehicles and slow tractors within the legal framework.
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Insurance premiums may be reduced after a full accompanied year without accidents.
9. FAQ
| Question | Short answer |
|---|---|
| Can you change or add an accompanier after the certificate is issued? | Yes; you can submit a change request for a small fee (≈ €10–€15). |
| What if the young driver drives without an accompanier? | Criminal offence “driving without a licence” + immediate withdrawal of the certificate and retraining. |
| Will BF17 be abolished with the EU digital licence? | No; the accompanier model is expected to be included in the planned app solution by 2030. |
Conclusion
BF17 provides a safe, structured transition from learner to responsible driver through mandatory accompaniment and strict alcohol rules. If you follow the administrative steps, meet accompanier requirements, and respect probation rules, you will automatically receive an unrestricted licence once you turn 18. Drive safely!
Editorial note
The editorial team strives to provide accurate information through extensive 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 confirmed information.
