Germany has abolished automatic exchange of Ukrainian driving licenses: how to work as a driver in Germany now

Germany has abolished simplified recognition of Ukrainian professional driving licenses. Find out how the exchange procedure now works, what documents are required, and how much it costs

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Germany has officially revoked a temporary decree that allowed Ukrainians to exchange their professional driver's licenses for German ones without taking exams. Now, all Ukrainian drivers must undergo a full procedure to have their qualifications recognized. This news came as a surprise to many, especially given the high demand for professional drivers in the German logistics sector. We explain what happened, why the simplification was canceled, and what to do now.

Recognition of Ukrainian professional driving licenses in Germany: what exactly was canceled and why

In 2024, the German federal government passed a temporary decree allowing professional Ukrainian drivers to exchange their C, CE, D, and DE licenses for German ones without having to retake training or exams. This decision was temporary and based on the yet-to-be-approved draft law Berufskraftfahrerqualifikationsgesetz.

However, in early 2025, early elections to the Bundestag were held in Germany. According to the principle of Diskontinuität, all draft laws that were not finally adopted before the end of the parliamentary term are automatically canceled. This is exactly what happened to the draft law on which the simplified recognition was based. As a result, the automatic exchange of driving licenses ceased to apply.

What does this mean for Ukrainians?

Following the abolition of the simplified procedure, Ukrainian citizens with driving licenses of categories C, CE, D, or DE must undergo full recognition of their qualifications in accordance with the rules applicable to third-country nationals. This means additional documents, procedures, costs, and time.

However, it is important to note that Germany has not banned Ukrainians from working as drivers — it has simply returned to the standard recognition process that has been in place for citizens of other non-EU countries.

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How to have your driving qualifications recognized in Germany: a step-by-step guide for Ukrainian drivers

1. Assess your driving qualifications

If you have a driver's license of categories C, CE, D, or DE and have proven work experience, you fall into the category of professional drivers. This opens up the possibility of officially having your qualifications recognized in Germany.

2. Gather the necessary documents

The package of required documents includes:

● a valid Ukrainian driver's license;

● a notarized translation into German;

● a medical certificate;

● documentary proof of work experience;

● in some cases, psychophysiological testing.

Please note: documents must be prepared in accordance with the requirements of the specific federal state. You can check the current requirements on the official website of Anerkennung in Deutschland.

3. Submit your application to the appropriate authority

Contact the Fahrerlaubnisbehörde — this is the German authority responsible for issuing driver's licenses. The application must be submitted in person, and it is better to make an appointment in advance. Check whether additional documents are required in your state.

4. Complete training or pass exams

After your documents have been reviewed, you may be asked to:

● take a theory test on traffic rules;

● take a practical test for the relevant category;

● or — take additional training courses at an accredited driving school.

The mandatory nature of a particular stage depends on your professional experience, documentary evidence, and the requirements of the specific district.

5. Obtain a German driver's license

After completing all the stages, you will be able to obtain a full German driver's license, which entitles you to work as a driver in Germany and other EU countries.

How much does it cost to have a Ukrainian professional driver's license recognized in Germany?

● Certified translation of documents — €30–100

● Medical examination — €50–100

● Psychological test (if required) — €80–150

● Theoretical and practical exam — €200–500

● Training courses (if necessary) — €1,000+

In total, the amount can vary from a few hundred to several thousand euros, depending on the requirements in your case.

What else should Ukrainians know about confirming their driving qualifications in Germany?

Despite the difficulties, the process remains open. In addition, in May 2025, a new bill is expected to be reintroduced that will restore or change the rules for recognizing driving qualifications. Therefore, it is important to follow the updates, stay informed, and not miss the chance to find legal employment.

If you are planning to travel abroad in your own car, don't forget to get a Green Card — this is compulsory insurance without which you cannot cross the border. You can purchase insurance online in a few minutes on the Visit Ukraine portal, where you can also consult with immigration lawyers who will help you with issues related to the recognition of diplomas, driver's licenses, employment, and legalization in EU countries.

The change in German legislation does not close the door to Ukrainians — it only means a return to standard European procedures. And although automatic exchange is no longer available, recognition of driving licenses remains entirely possible. The main thing is not to delay, to collect the documents correctly, follow the instructions, and contact specialists when necessary.

We remind you! Germany is tightening border controls from May 6, including turning back migrants and changing entry rules. Read what Ukrainians need to know about the new restrictions and how to avoid problems when crossing the border in our previous article.

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