How to become a truck driver: with and without training

Are you thinking about becoming a truck driver? Whether you're just starting out on your career path, want to reorient yourself or already have experience from abroad - you'll find out everything you need to know here. We'll show you how you can become a truck driver - with or without training, what the requirements are and how you can get started in Germany. We also give you tips on how to find jobs as a truck driver, for example via WorkerHero.

Requirements to become a truck driver

Truck drivers take responsibility - for themselves, the vehicle, the load and other road users. To practice this profession in Germany, you need:

• A class C or CE driver's license is the basic requirement. This allows you to drive heavy trucks.
  
• A basic qualification in accordance with the Professional Driver Qualification Act (BKrFQG) - this is mandatory if you are driving commercially. You usually acquire it during training or through further training.
  
• A driver card - this is used to operate and check your digital tachograph.
  
• Health suitability and eye test - you need a medical certificate and an ophthalmologic examination.
  
• Reliability - a clean police record is important for a driver's license.
  
  

You should also be motivated to travel long distances, work alone, change locations and work shifts.

If you would like to know more about everyday life in the profession, take a look at our article about working as a truck driver in Germany.

How to become a truck driver without (recognized) training

You don't have any recognized vocational training or just want to get started right away? No problem - there are ways to become a truck driver without training.

As a career changer, you can acquire a driver's license and professional driver qualification through retraining or intensive further training. The costs for this are often between 5,000 and 10,000 euros - depending on which classes you need. In many cases, the employment agency or job center will cover the costs via an education voucher.

If you are thinking about changing careers, be sure to take a look at our tips on jobs without training.

What you will learn during training or retraining as a truck driver

The classic apprenticeship to become a professional driver (m/f/d) takes three years and has a dual structure: You learn in the company and at vocational school. You will learn about:

• Road safety
  
• Load securing
  
• Driving technique and vehicle care
  
• Legal regulations
  
• economical driving
  
  

For adults with previous experience, there is the option of a shortened retraining course (approx. 6-12 months). This is also aimed at migrants or the unemployed.

The pay during the training is rather low, but afterwards the earning potential increases significantly. Here you will find an overview of the average salary of a driver.

Truck drivers from abroad: what you need to consider

If you have already worked abroad as a truck driver, different rules apply in Germany - depending on whether you come from the EU or a non-EU country:

From the EU:

• Your driving license is usually recognized.
  
• You still have to provide proof of a basic qualification in accordance with the BKrFQG, unless you have already obtained this in an EU country.
  
• Translate your documents into German and clarify with the driving license office whether a transfer is necessary.
  
  

From non-EU countries:

• You usually need recognition of your driving license - this is often only valid provisionally for the first 6 months of your stay in Germany.
  
• New training or retraining may be necessary, including a driver's license and qualifications.
  
• A work and residence permit is required.
  
  

Tip: Clarify the details with the driving license office in your place of residence and ask the immigration office whether you also need language certificates or integration courses.

Find jobs as a truck driver - WorkerHero

Do you want to get started now? On WorkerHero you will find numerous truck driver jobs throughout Germany - with or without training, as a career starter or experienced professional.

Our platform doesn't just help you find a job. You can also find information about your salary, your rights as an employee and tips for getting started in Germany - especially if you come from abroad and want to integrate.

Whether you are looking for a new job, retraining or simply a secure start - WorkerHero is your partner for career entry in Germany.