Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Germany’s Driving Schools See Enrollment Drop as License Reform Stays on the Drawing Board

The transport minister says legal changes require state agreement, urging learners not to wait.

Overview

  • Driving instructors’ association officials report noticeable hesitation from prospective students since the reform announcement, warning of potential short-time work and, in the worst case, insolvencies.
  • The proposal outlines expanded use of simulators and fewer mandatory special drives, with some instructors also citing a discussed cut to practical test time from about 55 to 25 minutes.
  • Patrick Schnieder reiterated that any changes must go through a legislative process with the federal states and that there will be no immediate new price tag for a license.
  • Current costs for a Class B license average roughly €3,400, with schools citing higher personnel and energy expenses and per-lesson prices of about €55 to €75 as key drivers.
  • Regional reports show mixed effects, as several Dresden schools say registrations remain stable despite nationwide reports of declines.