The practical driving test in Germany: flow, duration & tips

How the practical test works

The practical driving test is the final exam on the road. An examiner from TUV or DEKRA assesses how you handle traffic, usually with your instructor present in the car.

You normally need to have completed the required theory and practical hours, passed the theory test, and your school must register you when you are ready.

The examiner gives route instructions and may ask for basic manoeuvres such as parking, reversing, or a controlled stop-depending on class and situation.

Typical duration by class

Exact times vary by examiner, region, and traffic. As a rough guide:

• Class B (car): often about 45-55 minutes
• Class A (motorcycle): often around 60 minutes or more
• Class C (truck): can be longer

Confirm details with your driving school.

Common vehicle questions from the examiner

Before or during the test, examiners often check basic vehicle knowledge, for example:

• Engine oil: dipstick out, wipe, reinsert, pull again, read level.
• Tyre tread: know legal minimums (often 1.6 mm is cited) and how to check.
• Hazard lights: where the switch is and when to use them.

Practice these answers with your instructor-they should feel routine, not improvised.

Which manoeuvres might you have to do?

For class B, tasks often include:

• Reversing into a gap or junction (as instructed)
• Parking (parallel or bay, depending on the task)
• Turning / three-point turn where appropriate
• Emergency braking on a safe stretch when asked

Not every test includes every manoeuvre.

Tips to pass the practical test

• Build routine: drive in rain, darkness, and unfamiliar areas-not only "easy" routes.
• Priorities and signs: mistakes here fail many tests-stay predictable.
• Mirrors and shoulder checks: show you notice other road users.
• Small mistakes: stalling once is not automatically a fail-recover calmly.

If you don't pass

Many people pass on the second or third attempt. After a fail, there is usually a waiting period before the next attempt (often around two weeks-confirm locally). Each attempt incurs fees again and possibly extra lessons.

There is no fixed maximum number of attempts, but cost and time add up.

Managing nerves

• Breathing: slow exhales before you start.
• Trust: your school should not register you until you meet a basic safety standard.
• Aim for safe flow, not a "perfect show drive."

Costs (indicative)

• Test fee (TUV/DEKRA): often roughly EUR 100-120 (varies)
• Driving lessons: commonly quoted around EUR 30-50 per lesson (varies widely)
• Retakes: fee plus any extra training

Always check your school's price sheet for binding numbers.