The prospect of making driver’s license acquisition more affordable is gaining traction in Germany, with support emerging from the prominent automobile club, ADAC. Following a recent initiative by Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder, aimed at reducing the significant costs associated with obtaining a driver’s license, the ADAC has voiced its agreement with the need for reform.
Schnieder previously highlighted the escalating expense of driver’s licenses, noting that costs exceeding €4,000 are prohibitive for many. He emphasized that such high prices create a barrier to mobility and impact individuals’ ability to fully participate in society, potentially restricting access to education and employment opportunities. He called for increased transparency within driving schools, advocating for more streamlined training programs, the wider adoption of driving simulators and measures to address high failure rates in both theoretical and practical driving examinations.
Gerhard Hillebrand, ADAC’s Head of Mobility, underscored the importance of affordable driver’s licenses, stating that independent mobility enables participation in societal activities and facilitates access to essential services. He framed the issue as one of social equity.
The ADAC supports Schnieder’s objectives, suggesting concrete steps to reduce costs. These include expanding virtual theory lessons and increasing the utilization of driving simulators, both of which can contribute to savings on driving school rental fees. Furthermore, the ADAC proposes that the use of simulators should not always require the availability of two vehicles powered by different propulsion systems. Addressing the ongoing shortage of driving instructors, the ADAC also suggested the development of alternative training pathways for those seeking to enter the profession.
