Practical Test

General Information on the Driver's License Test

In Germany, the laws applicable to driver's licenses require a test for the various driver's license classes.

The legal basis for the driver's license test is grounded both in the laws of the European Union andnational legislation and is described in detail in the Driver's License Regulation.

The Driver's License Regulation applies directly to all participants and involved parties.The test consists of a theoretical and practical test in accordance with the testing guidelines for each driver's license class. The testing guidelines are binding on the organization performing the test (TÃœV). The testing guidelines contain a summary description of the most important regulations applicable to the test.

The test is administered by an officially certified specialist or test administrator. The specialist or test administrator acts by authority of the state in charge of administering the test in accordance with the regulations.

Test Administrator
It is the function of the test administrator to fairly assess your driving abilities. The standard he uses for this purpose is determined by the test guidelines.

The test administrator assigned to you is a human being just like you and your driving instructor.Therefore, your instructor will:

• first introduce himself
• give you the opportunity to also ask him questions
• create a friendly environment as the basis for a properly conducted test.

Before the actual driving test begins, the test administrator will:

• give you sufficient time to prepare your vehicle for the test
• clearly explain the desired route to you
• ask you to inquire if something is not clear

During the driving test, the test administrator will:

• first attempt to expose you to simple traffic situations
• give you advice in unclear situations
• also take note of good performance, not only errors
• not instruct you to drive into streets with prohibited access
• converse with your driving instructor to ease the tension of the moment
• if this well-intentioned conversation bothers you, do not hesitate to tell the test administrator.

After the driving test, the test administrator will:

• first tell you the result of the test
• indicate major errors clearly and concisely
• answer your questions about the driving test.

Practical clothing for the test

• Light, airy, comfortable clothing (except for motorcycle classes)
• For motorcycle classes, protective clothing that fits well
• Solid footwear
• Ensure a clear field of vision (no dark sunglasses, no hair in the face)

Additional Requirements, Test Guidelines

• Minor uncertainties and errors will occur during the test.
• Try to rectify these on the spot.
• Do not panic if the buzzer sounds on the driving instructor's pedal. Not all instances of buzzing mean you have failed the test. Only the test administrator determines the outcome at the end of the driving test.