Transport & logistics · Berufskraftfahrer:in
Professional driver (truck / bus)
Driving trucks or buses commercially requires the correct EU/EEA driving licence and professional-driver qualification. Recognition of the vocational qualification is optional. A dedicated residence route may allow you to complete the German driving requirements with your employer; you cannot drive commercially before the required permissions are in place.
- Who recognises it
- The local driving-licence office handles licence conversion. Professional-driver qualifications are evidenced by a driver qualification card or recognised Code 95 entry. Occupational recognition is a separate, optional procedure.
- German level
- The employer sets the language requirement for the specific job. Check the advert and any separate residence-permit requirements; there is no single CEFR threshold for this occupation.
- Typical salary
- €3,196 gross/month. BA 2025 full-time median for Berufskraftfahrer/in (Güterverkehr/LKW); a reference for the occupational group, not an entry salary or job offer.
- How long it takes
- Varies — licence conversion + Code 95 modules.
How recognition works
- 1Convert/recognise your driving licence at the local Führerscheinstelle.
- 2Obtain the professional-driver qualification (Code 95) via training or test.
- 3Secure a job offer and apply for the skilled-worker/experience visa.
Documents you'll need
- Driving licence (with translation) + driving record
- Any professional-driver certificates
- Job offer / contract
- 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.
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.