Führerscheinreform: Bilger: Führerschein könnte 1.000 Euro günstiger werden

Berlin - Federal Transportation Minister Steffen Bilger (CDU) has for the first time quantified potential savings from the upcoming driver's license reform. Driving students could thus save several hundred euros, in the best case even up to 1,000 euros, Bilger said in an interview with "Welt". "With more digital instruction and an administrative burden reduction, we aim to lower costs," Bilger explained.

The minister also pointed to "significant regional differences" and the fact that some driving instructors require more driving hours than others. As of now, the costs for a class B driver's license, according to the Federal Ministry of Transport, are on average around 3,400 euros. The planned reform seeks to make acquisition more affordable, among other things, through more digital theory instruction, less bureaucracy, and changes to the practical and theoretical exams.

The Social Association of Germany welcomed Bilger's announcement. The cost explosion for driver's licenses particularly affects young people who often end up indebted, said its CEO Michaela Engelmeier. "Not having a driver's license can also be a real competitive disadvantage on the job market later." Important professions such as emergency medical technicians, bus drivers, disability transport services, or mobile care providers rely on driving.

The reform, however, meets with broad opposition from driving instructors. They warn that the safety level could drop. Driving students would have to attend a part of the theoretical lessons in person, they demand. They also criticize a planned amateur training. The reform still needs to be passed by the Bundestag and the Bundesrat. According to the current plans, the new rules should take effect at the beginning of 2027.