Overview
- Federal proposals would allow online theory classes, shorten the theory question catalog by about one third, expand use of simulators, and reduce some mandatory special drives.
- Driving-school leaders warn that simulators cannot replace real traffic experience and cite safety risks as well as investment costs of roughly €40,000 per unit.
- Some schools report fewer new registrations as learners delay enrollment in hopes of cheaper licences once reforms take effect.
- Current car-licence prices commonly range from about €3,000 to €4,500, with an average near €3,400, and high failure rates in theory and practical tests add to costs.
- The ministry says concepts will be refined with the Länder and the industry, with no price cuts expected this year and legal steps planned for the first half of 2026.