Führerschein wird 2027 günstiger: Reform senkt Kosten und Prüfungszeiten

Germany’s Bundesrat approved a sweeping driving license reform on July 13 that will reshape how citizens earn their licenses starting January 1, 2027. The changes cut the theory exam from over 1,100 questions to about 840, shrink the practical test from 55 to 40 minutes, and replace mandatory classroom instruction with digital learning. The reform aims to make licensing more affordable while maintaining road safety standards.

What changes for new drivers in 2027

Digital theory replaces classroom attendance. Candidates learn via app or hybrid models instead of mandatory in-person lessons. The theory exam shrinks by roughly one-third, from 1,100+ questions to about 840. Starting July 1, 2027, the practical driving test for Class B licenses drops from 30 to 25 minutes of actual driving, with total test time falling from 55 to 40 minutes.

Flexible driving hours replace rigid requirements. Instructors decide how many lessons each student needs based on progress, though highway, rural, and night driving remain mandatory. Successful theory students who complete six lessons can practice on public roads with parents as part of a pilot program.

Cost savings and market impact

A standard Class B license currently costs around 3,400 euros in Germany, according to CDU politician Marcel Scharrelmann. The reforms target making licensing affordable so “mobility does not fail at the wallet,” as Niedersachsen’s SPD transport minister Grant Hendrik Tonne stated. Digital learning and shorter test times reduce instructor hours and exam capacity bottlenecks.

Digital theory training forms the core of the business model for online driving schools like 123fahrschule SE. The Bundesrat’s approval on July 13 left these elements untouched, signaling regulatory certainty for operators.

Transparency and exam capacity

A new state platform called “Mobilithek” launches in July 2027 to publish prices and failure rates for all driving schools, enabling direct comparison. This transparency aims to help candidates find affordable options and pressure schools to improve pass rates.

Capacity bottlenecks in summer months have plagued regions like Niedersachsen for years. The CDU proposes allowing driving instructors to serve as examiners in separate locations to reduce wait times and prevent candidates from paying for extra lessons while waiting for test slots.

What remains unchanged

Safety requirements hold firm. Highway, rural, and night driving remain compulsory for all candidates. The Bundesrat rejected a proposal to strip out lay examiner training, keeping that pathway intact. Class B license holders will gain expanded privileges to supervise learner drivers, though details remain under development.

The reform is still a draft subject to final parliamentary approval, though the Bundesrat’s July 13 endorsement removes major obstacles to implementation by January 1, 2027.

Final Thoughts

Germany’s driving license reform cuts costs and simplifies entry while preserving safety standards. Candidates face shorter exams, digital learning, and lower fees starting 2027, though final passage still pending. The changes benefit online driving schools and reduce barriers to mobility for cost-conscious learners.

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