Attraktives Extra: Freiwilliger Wehrdienst: Zuschüsse für Führerschein sichern

Many might not know that voluntary military service volunteers can receive subsidies for their driver's license from their employer. The Bundesverband Lohnsteuerhilfevereine (BVL) explains that these subsidies, including taxes, were introduced to make the voluntary military service more appealing to prospective participants. Starting in 2026, volunteers in the military service will have the legal right to have their driver's license costs covered up to the specified amounts, provided the expenses were incurred directly for obtaining the license.

To qualify, one must commit to a continuous 12-month military service period and pass the examination. The driver's license must be obtained either within 12 months before or up to 12 months after the completion of the voluntary military service. However, only one type of license—either a regular car (Pkw) or a heavy goods vehicle (Lkw) license—can be subsidized.

David Martens, the business director at the BVL, advises closely monitoring these deadlines. Young adults who are still uncertain about their decision to join the voluntary military service are encouraged to gather all relevant documents to ensure they are considered for reimbursement.