Truck (HGV) driving license in Germany: a complete 2025 guide
Introduction
Road freight is a key economic pillar in Germany and across Europe. As the sector grows, professional requirements and legal oversight for heavy-vehicle drivers have also increased. This guide summarizes the key rules (as stated in the text) for 2025—from license classes to training and exams, and the mandatory professional qualification for commercial drivers.
Truck license categories
| Class | Vehicle weight / group | Trailer | Minimum age* | Key notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C1 | 3.5 – 7.5 t | ≤ 750 kg | 18 | private or commercial (domestic) |
| C1E | 3.5 – 7.5 t | > 750 kg (total ≤ 12 t) | 18 | additional training required |
| C | > 3.5 t (no upper limit) | ≤ 750 kg | 21 ↘ 18 with Grundqualifikation | most common for national haulage |
| CE | > 3.5 t | > 750 kg (no upper limit) | 21 ↘ 18 under similar conditions | heavy trailers permitted |
* Minimum age may drop to 18 with Grundqualifikation or during vocational training such as Fachkraft im Fahrbetrieb under § 4 BKrFQG.
Basic requirements to apply
Valid Class B driving license
Medical fitness check (general fitness + eyesight), commonly valid for 12 months (Anlage 5 FeV)
First-aid course (9 units)
For commercial driving: suitable driving record/fitness requirements as applicable
Biometric photo + licensing authority fees (approx. €40–€70)
Driving school training
| Component | Minimum for C/CE | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Additional theory lessons | 18 × 90 minutes | load, safety, technical focus |
| Mandatory special drives (Sonderfahrten) | 12 lessons (5 rural + 2 motorway + 3 night) | fixed requirement for C and CE |
| Regular practical lessons | about 20–30 lessons | depends on experience |
Theory exam
C: 37 questions, max 10 penalty points
CE: 30 questions, max 10 penalty points
Usually administered by TÜV or DEKRA, available in multiple languages
The text notes added 2025 content such as image-based questions on load securing and advanced assistance systems.
Practical exam
| Assessment item | Time | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle check (Abfahrtkontrolle) | 10 min | lights, fluids, securing mechanisms |
| City + rural + motorway driving | 55 min | merging, overtaking, manoeuvres |
| Mandatory manoeuvres | 10 min | reversing, L-turn, emergency braking |
| Digital feedback/protocol | 5 min | exam protocol |
| Total | 75 min | for C/CE |
A single serious fault (right-of-way violation, immediate danger) may lead to immediate failure.
Professional qualification (Code 95)
Commercial truck driving requires Code 95 in the license.
| Route | Duration | Exam body |
|---|---|---|
| Grundqualifikation | 280 h theory + 10 h practical | IHK exam |
| Accelerated Grundqualifikation | 140 h theory + 10 h practical | IHK exam |
Refresher: 35 hours of training every 5 years (as stated in the text).
The text mentions 2025 efforts to reduce language barriers via broader language options.
Estimated costs (2025)
| Item | C (€) | CE (€) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving school base fee | 700 – 1,200 | 800 – 1,300 | varies by region |
| Practical lesson (45 min) | 65–90 × number | 70–95 × number | depends on need |
| Special drives | 1,000 – 1,300 | 1,100 – 1,400 | mandatory |
| Theory exam | 25 – 35 | 25 – 35 | TÜV/DEKRA |
| Practical exam | 170 – 230 | 190 – 250 | varies |
| Medical + first aid | 120 – 180 | 120 – 180 | varies |
| Code 95 entry | 28.60 | 28.60 | entry fee |
| Approx. total | 3,000 – 4,500 | 3,500 – 5,000 | general estimate |
Validity and renewal
Typically valid for 5 years; renewal requires a medical check and any required documentation.
The text notes 2025 pilot directions toward digital driving licenses in line with broader European trends.
Common mistakes to avoid
Ignoring driving/rest times recorded by digital tachographs
Poor load securing
Missing the Code 95 refresher before the 5-year deadline
Tips to pass first time
Choose a truck-specialized driving school with a large manoeuvring yard
Book medical checks early
Practise manoeuvres until they become automatic
Study axle loads, weights, and load securing thoroughly
Conclusion
In 2025, getting a truck license in Germany combines strict technical standards with ongoing professional qualification. Following the steps carefully can open strong job opportunities across Germany and Europe—with major responsibility for safety on the road.
ـ* The site’s writers and editors strive for accuracy, but errors or unconfirmed information may occur. Please treat this as initial guidance and consult the competent authorities for confirmed details.
