Law

Probezeit (probationary period)

Also known as: German driving licence probation

The German Probezeit is a two-year probationary period after a first driving licence is issued. Violations are categorised as A or B and may trigger an aftermath seminar, an extension of the period, or revocation.

The Probezeit is regulated under § 2a of the German Road Traffic Act (StVG). It runs for two years from the issue of the driving licence — for BF17 graduates, from the 17th birthday.

Violation categories:

  • A-violations (severe): e.g., running a red light, significant speeding, tailgating, alcohol-impaired driving,
  • B-violations (less severe): e.g., licence-plate violations, missing first-aid kit, missing safety vest.

A first A-violation or two B-violations typically result in:

  1. Extension of the Probezeit to four years,
  2. Mandatory aftermath seminar for novice drivers (ASF),
  3. On repetition: licence revocation and possible MPU.

Drivers under 21 are also subject to a strict zero-alcohol rule during their Probezeit.

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