Nearly Half of German Learner Drivers Fail Theory Test, TÜV Reports

The TÜV's latest data reveals a persistent 45% failure rate for theory exams, with rising costs and cheating attempts adding to the challenges of obtaining a license.

The nationwide failure rate for theoretical driving exams remains at 45%, with Berlin and Sachsen-Anhalt leading with a 50% failure rate.
Practical driving tests have a lower failure rate of 37%, but costs for obtaining a license have surged to between €2,500 and €4,400.
Under-18 applicants perform significantly better, with only 36% failing the theory test compared to 52% among 18-24-year-olds.
Cheating during theory exams is a growing concern, with 4,198 cases reported in 2024, marking a 12% increase compared to the previous year.
The TÜV advocates for electronic learning progress monitoring in driving schools to reduce failure rates and ensure better preparation for exams.