Freight Transport License

Operating a commercial road freight transport business with vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross weight in Germany requires a freight transport license (Güterkraftverkehrsgenehmigung) under the Road Freight Transport Act (GüKG). This applies to anyone transporting goods for hire or reward. Own-account transport (Werkverkehr) using your own vehicles for your own goods only requires a notification, not a full license.

You apply at the state transport authority. Requirements include professional competence (demonstrated by passing an IHK examination or holding equivalent qualifications), personal reliability (clean police record), and financial standing (at least 9,000 euros for the first vehicle and 5,000 euros for each additional one, confirmed by a tax adviser or auditor). You must also provide certificates of good standing from the tax office, municipality, social insurance fund, and professional liability insurer. The national license is valid for ten years and can be renewed.