Transport & logistics · Triebfahrzeugführer:in (Lokführer)
Train driver
To drive trains, you need a valid train-driving licence and the operator's additional certificate for the vehicles and infrastructure. The Federal Railway Authority sets the licensing framework. Check how an existing licence can be used, and agree any training and language requirements with the operator.
- Who recognises it
- The Federal Railway Authority (Eisenbahn-Bundesamt) — the EU train-driving licence is regulated; operators add company-specific training.
- German level
- German B1 is the statutory language standard under the train-driving rules, subject to specified exceptions. Operators may require a higher level for training and safety communication.
- Typical salary
- €4,251 gross/month. BA 2025 full-time median for Eisenbahner/in – Betriebsdienst – Lokführer/in und Transport; a reference for the occupational group, not an entry salary or job offer.
- How long it takes
- Varies — EU train-driving licence (medical, exams) + company training.
How recognition works
- 1Have your existing driving/railway qualifications assessed and, where needed, converted.
- 2Obtain the EU train-driving licence (medical, psychological and knowledge exams).
- 3Complete the operator's company-specific certificate (Zusatzbescheinigung).
- 4Secure a job offer and apply for the skilled-worker/experience visa.
Documents you'll need
- Existing driving/railway licence + records (certified translation)
- Medical & psychological fitness certificates
- Work references
- German language certificate (B2)
- Passport + CV
Costs & translations
Recognition fees are typically €100–600. Budget extra for certified German translations of your documents and, in some countries, an apostille/legalisation. Adaptation courses or exams can add further cost.
Come first, recognise here
For regulated jobs you can use a recognition partnership (Anerkennungspartnerschaft): enter Germany with a job offer and finish the recognition after you arrive, instead of waiting abroad.
Your visa routes
Last verified 2026-10-10. Recognition rules depend on the profession and the federal state, and they change. Confirm with the official authority linked above.