The driver card is used to record driving and rest periods in the commercial transport of goods and passengers. As a driver, you need a driver card for the following motor vehicles:

• Vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 metric tons, including trailers
• Vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of 2.8 to 3.5 metric tons, including trailers, provided a digital tachograph is installed
• Vehicles designed to carry more than 9 people, including the driver

There are certain exceptions for farmers or in the case of universal services.

If you do not yet have a valid driver card, you can apply for one at the office responsible for your area. 

The driver card is valid for 5 years from the date it is personalized by the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA). You must apply to renew your card no later than 15 business days before it expires.

Do you want to renew a driver card that has already expired? In that case, you must submit a new application.

Only you are permitted to use the driver card issued specifically to you. It remains your property at all times, even if your employer paid for the driver card. In principle, employers are not obligated to cover the costs. 

If your driver card is damaged, malfunctions, is lost, or stolen, you must apply for a replacement card from the relevant authority within 7 calendar days at the latest. You must immediately report the theft or loss of your driver card to the authority or agency that issued it.

There are no notes or special features.

County administrations or municipal administrations of independent cities and large cities within a county

County administrations or municipal administrations of cities independent of a county and large cities within a county

• Application for a Driver Card
• Proof of Identity
• A valid domestic driver’s license or a driver’s license issued by a member state of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA)
  • entitles the holder to drive vehicles subject to regulations on driving and rest periods
• Proof of residence in Germany and address
• Proof of last name, first name, date of birth, and place of birth
• A photograph against a light background, measuring 35 mm x 45 mm, showing the applicant without head covering in a frontal view (biometric passport photo)

Cash / EC