01.09.2026 17:41
Germany has introduced a Turkish language option for the professional competence exams required for professional drivers, aiming to reduce the driver shortage in the transportation sector. The regulation is of particular interest to Turkish drivers holding C, CE, and D class licenses. It is noted that the monthly gross earnings of truck and tractor-trailer drivers in Germany can range between 2,800 and 4,500 euros, depending on experience and working conditions.
Germany has implemented a new practice that could make it easier for Turkish drivers to work in the country. With the introduction of a Turkish language option in the professional qualification exams required for professional driving, one of the major language-related barriers has been removed.
TURKISH LANGUAGE OPTION IN PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATION EXAM
New steps are being taken to address the driver shortage that the transportation sector in Germany has long faced. It is noted that the driver shortage in the country has exceeded 120,000, and as of August 18, a Turkish language option has been offered in the accelerated basic qualification exams for professional truck and bus drivers. This regulation provides significant convenience, especially for Turkish drivers who have professional experience but insufficient German language proficiency.
NOT EVERY DRIVING EXAM WILL BE IN TURKISH
There is an important detail to be aware of in the new practice. The Turkish language option does not cover general driving license exams. The language convenience will only apply to the professional qualification exam required for professional driving. Within the scope of the process, candidates must first complete 140 hours of mandatory training from authorized institutions, and then successfully pass a 90-minute theoretical exam conducted by the Chambers of Industry and Commerce. The practice particularly concerns drivers of C-class trucks, CE-class tractor-trailers, and D-class buses.
TURKISH DRIVING LICENSE ALONE IS NOT SUFFICIENT
Offering the Turkish exam option does not mean that one can go directly from Turkey to Germany and work as a driver. Candidates must bring their driving licenses in line with German standards to get behind the wheel in Germany, hold a valid employment contract, and complete the necessary visa procedures. While taking the exam in Turkish provides a significant advantage, having a basic level of German for use in professional life remains important for drivers.
SALARIES UP TO 4,500 EUROS
One of the most striking aspects of the regulation for drivers in Turkey is the wages in Germany. According to provided information, the earnings of truck and lorry drivers in Germany vary depending on experience, the state of employment, the cargo transported, and working conditions. It is stated that monthly gross salaries can range between 2,800 euros and 4,500 euros. The net salary can vary according to tax bracket, marital status, night work, and other additional payments.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENT FOR THOSE OVER 45
While it is stated that there is no general age limit for entering the profession, additional conditions regarding income or pension security apply for candidates over the age of 45. According to a report in Gazete Oksijen, based on information for 2026, candidates in this group are required to reach an annual income level of at least 55,770 euros or provide proof that they have adequate pension security.