Germany’s Category M Driving Licence

Germany’s M Licence: How It Became AM and What It Means for You in 2025

Historical note
Since 19 January 2013, category M was officially discontinued and merged together with category S into the unified category AM. So any mention of an “M licence” today effectively refers to the AM licence for small vehicles with a maximum speed of 45 km/h. (فاشانونت)

What can you drive with an AM licence?

• Scooters and light motorcycles up to 50 cm³, or (if electric) with a continuous power output of 4 kW, with a maximum speed of 45 km/h.

• Three-wheeled vehicles within the same displacement/power and speed limits.

• Light four-wheeled vehicles (Leicht-KFZ) such as quads and small microcars, with an unladen mass ≤ 350 kg and a maximum speed ≤ 45 km/h. (Bußgeldkatalog, Qualität ist Mehrwert, fahrschule-miecke.vvr.de)

Legal age and where it is valid

All new licence cards (including AM) are valid for 15 years and then replaced administratively. There are also plans for a digital driving licence in the European Identity Wallet before 2030. (ADAC)

Registration requirements

• Proof of German residence + a valid ID.

• First-aid course (9 units) + a basic eyesight test.

• Biometric photo and licensing authority fees (€40–€70, depending on the state).

• No advanced medical exam and no clean criminal record requirement, because this is not about paid transport of passengers or goods.

Training at a driving school (Fahrschule)

Cheaper alternative: the Mofa certificate for 25 km/h can be obtained at 15 via a short course, but it does not allow riding 45-km/h vehicles.

Official tests

Theory test

• 30 questions (20 general + 10 specialised); maximum 10 penalty points, with an additional rule: you must not get two 5-point questions wrong.

• Available in 13 languages, including Arabic.

• Since April 2025, image-based questions have been added to assess understanding of side distances and night-time visibility. (ADAC)

Practical test

• Around 25–30 minutes: quick vehicle check + manoeuvres (moving off, emergency braking, obstacle avoidance, slalom) + a short urban ride.

• Conducted first on a closed course, then in light traffic at speeds not exceeding 45 km/h.

• The candidate receives a digital report showing manoeuvre errors within minutes.

Exam fees at TÜV/DEKRA are about €25 (theory) and €70–€90 (practical), plus the driving school’s administrative/presentation fees.

Total costs (estimate for 2025)

Costs vary widely by city; eastern states are often about 15% cheaper than Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg.

FAQ

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

• Not wearing an approved helmet → immediate failure or later fines.

• Forgetting turn signals during slow manoeuvres.

• Hard braking on wet roads without gradual control → risk of slipping.

• Not doing a shoulder check before changing lanes, even at 30 km/h.

Conclusion
The former M licence — now AM — is the fastest and most affordable entry into motorised mobility in Germany. By understanding what vehicles are allowed, meeting the short training requirements, and preparing methodically for both exams, you can obtain a valid European licence and enjoy safe, economical travel in cities and rural areas. Safe driving!

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.