Since April 1, 2021, you have the option of obtaining a Class B driver's license with the key number 197. To do so, you complete driver training and the driving test in a vehicle with automatic transmission and at the same time obtain the qualification to drive vehicles with manual transmission.
Until now, anyone taking the Class B driver's license for passenger cars had to pay attention to which vehicle they were using for the practical test. If the test was taken in a car with automatic transmission, the key number 78 was entered in the driver's license. However, this only allows the holder to drive cars with automatic transmission. With the B197, driver's license training can be combined on vehicles with manual and automatic transmission without any restrictions
on the driver's license.
Please note: You must decide whether to obtain a Class B or 197 driver's license when you register at the driving school and with the driver's license authority. Subsequent corrections will lead to unnecessary delays and additional costs if, for example, we have to order a new driver's license from the Federal Printing Office in Berlin.
If your driver's license has an automatic transmission restriction with the key number 78, you can also have this removed by completing training on manual transmission vehicles in accordance with 197 without a practical test, and then you will also be able to drive manual transmission vehicles.
Important note:
However, it is not possible to remove the automatic restriction if it has been imposed for medical reasons, e.g., due to a physical disability.
If all requirements are met, we will add the new key number 197 to class B on your driver's license. This is not a requirement or restriction, as is the case with key number 78. It merely serves as documentation that you have passed the test on an automatic vehicle. Holders of class 197 are also allowed to drive manual vehicles abroad.
Driver training
- Successful participation in driver training of at least 10 driving lessons of 45 minutes each (450 minutes) in a vehicle with manual transmission in accordance with § 5a (1) FahrschAusbO
- 15-minute test with the driving instructor (in town/out of town). No test! in accordance with § 5a (3) FahrschAusbO
- After completing the driver training, the driving school must issue you with a certificate of successful participation in accordance with Annex 7 to § 5a (4) of the Fahrschüler-Ausbildungsordnung (Driver Training Regulations).
Note on extending driving license classes:
- If you have obtained class B with key number 197, you will receive an automatic restriction with key number 78 when extending your driving license to advanced classes such as class BE, C, or C1 if you have taken the tests with an automatic vehicle.
- Class 197 therefore does not automatically exempt you from restrictions on advanced extension classes.
Application
- Main residence in Mainz
- Personal appearance when submitting the application for class B (for identification and signature purposes)
