Working as a driver in the freight or public transport sector is one of the most sought-after and stable professions in Germany. It does not require higher education, but provides the opportunity for legal relocation, decent earnings and stable employment.
Germany has strict requirements, especially for professional drivers.
The main problem is that National rights from CIS countries or other countries outside the EU are valid in Germany only for the first six months from the date of entry. After this, they must be replaced with German ones.
PThe replacement process can be long, so start early. You will need to undergo a medical examination, a psychophysiological test (for certain categories), and also retake theoretical and practical exams. Please remember that training and exams are only held in German.
To legally work as a driver in Germany, you will need a work visa. To receive it you must provide:
IN The country provides for mandatory confirmation of professional competence – basic driver qualifications (Professional driver qualification). This document certifies that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform your duties in a professional manner.
Basic qualification training is required for all truck and bus drivers who work in the commercial sector. This applies to category drivers C1, C, CE, D1, D, regardless of citizenship.
The salaries of drivers in Germany depend on their specialization, experience and region of work. Truck, bus or taxi drivers have different income levels, but they can all expect a stable income.
Truckersthose working on trucks earn on average about 43,000 euros per year before taxes. The starting salary for beginners is about 2,700 euros per month, but with experience the income can increase to 4,000 euros and above. Such high rates are due to the shortage of personnel in this area. For dangerous goods carriers or drivers working on international routes, the salary is higher than for those who serve local transport.
Bus drivers earn from 2,500 to 3,500 euros per month gross, depending on whether the driver works on city routes, tourist flights or intercity lines. Earnings increase in regions with a high standard of living, such as Bavaria or Baden-Württemberg.
For taxi drivers, the salary is slightly lower. A taxi driver can expect to earn around 2,000–2,500 euros per month, which corresponds to approximately 14 euros per hour.