Taxi License

Operating a taxi service requires a license under the Passenger Transport Act (Personenbeförderungsgesetz, PBefG). The license is granted for a specific operating area and a specific number of vehicles. It is time-limited, typically for four to five years, and must be renewed.

You apply at the transport authority (Genehmigungsbehörde) at your place of business. Four conditions must be met: an orderly business location, personal reliability, financial capacity (proof of adequate capital and insurance), and professional competence. Professional competence is demonstrated through the IHK competence examination (Fachkundeprüfung) for taxi and hire car operators, or through equivalent qualifications or management experience. The authority may limit the number of taxi licenses in an area based on demand.