Driving license with a disability: 9 steps to a driving license with a severe disability (2024)

Although paraplegia is a significant limitation in life, it is not necessary to give up your driving license and the freedom that comes with it! With suitable technical adaptations to the vehicle and the successful completion of the road safety certificate, nothing stands in the way of obtaining a driving license and then driving a car. Here you can find out under which conditions it is possible to participate in road traffic as a paraplegic.

The training process for obtaining a driving license is basically no different for people with paraplegia compared to those without this disability. However, before registering with a driving school, an application for a disabled driver's license must be submitted to a competent authority. This authority then decides to what extent the existing paraplegia affects driving and which expert opinions (medical, MPU, technical, driving test) are required to issue the certificate of road safety. You can find more information on the various assessments here. The technical report is particularly relevant for people with paraplegia. Here, the necessary adaptations to the vehicle or technical aids that are required to be able to drive the vehicle safely despite the restrictions are recorded. A driving test is then usually ordered, which is supervised by an officially recognized expert and a driving instructor. Once the road safety certificate has been issued, nothing stands in the way of mobility.

If you develop paraplegia after you already have a driving license, it is imperative that you report this immediately to the relevant driving licensing authority. The authority must then check whether and which adaptations to the vehicle or technical aids are required to ensure continued mobility. Training sessions in the specially adapted vehicle are also necessary. These modifications can also be carried out by driving schools that specialize in this area.

Driving license training for people with learning disabilities, just like for learner drivers without learning disabilities, includes both a theoretical and a practical part and can be obtained for all vehicle categories. The main difference for driving license candidates with learning disabilities lies in the theoretical training. Driving schools that specialize in people with learning disabilities use special teaching methods to convey the material as clearly and comprehensibly as possible and to facilitate the learning process. Videos, pictures, mnemonic devices, role-playing games, mnemonics or rhymes are often used. Special computer-based programs are also used to reinforce the theory.

Depending on its severity, dyslexia, also known as "reading and spelling disorder" (LRS), can affect theoretical driving license training. People with this form of learning disability may fail the theory test more often or, in the worst case, not want to take the test because they are too anxious. To counteract these fears and difficulties, specialized driving schools offer intensive courses in this area to provide you with targeted support for successful theory training. It is important that audio and video programs are used in these courses alongside the lessons in order to reduce comprehension difficulties for the learner driver. With learning programs tailored to dyslexics and experienced driving instructors, you will be optimally prepared for the exams despite any deficits. There are also regulations for the actual theory test that are designed to support the successful completion of the test: Candidates are under less time pressure and the questions can be read out by a responsible person. The practical driving training, on the other hand, is similar to that of any other learner driver: depending on the class, a certain number of driving lessons are required, and when you are ready, you can take the practical driving test. So take the plunge! Even if a learning disability can be a challenge, it shouldn't stop you from realizing your dream of a driver's license and the freedom that comes with it! The best way to find out about suitable driving schools in your area and the exact exam regulations is to contact your local driving license office directly.

Are you hard of hearing or suffer from complete hearing loss? The good news is that this impairment is generally not an obstacle to obtaining a driver's license. On this page you will find all the relevant information on this topic. Many people with hearing impairments are often under the misconception that a driver's license is out of reach for them. The all-clear can be given here: Normally, obtaining a driver's license is not a problem for people with hearing loss or deafness. These sensory deficits are considered to be easily compensated for, and people with hearing impairments do not necessarily pose a greater risk on the road than people without this disability. A certificate from an ear, nose and throat specialist is usually sufficient to obtain the necessary road safety certificate. This confirms the hearing impairment or deafness and also documents whether this is accompanied by an impairment of the sense of balance. A decision is also made as to whether it is necessary to wear a hearing aid while driving. It is advisable to choose a driving school that specializes in this area when training people with hearing impairments or deafness for their driver's license, especially with regard to the theory test. Unsuitable learning materials and driving instructors without sign language skills can present obstacles in theory training that can be avoided. It therefore makes sense to look for driving schools that offer special learning programs for hard of hearing or deaf driving license candidates and teach the theoretical material in an accessible way.

Is it permitted to drive a motor vehicle with a mental disability? What aspects need to be taken into account during driver's license training? Can you continue to drive a vehicle if the mental disability occurs after obtaining a driver's license? All relevant information on driving with a mental disability is summarized in this article. People with a disability also have the opportunity to obtain a driver's license under certain conditions. In the case of physical impairments, such as paraplegia, adaptations are usually made to the vehicle to ensure mobility. But what about people who suffer from a mental disability?

Constant concentration and attention are essential for driving a motor vehicle and safe participation in road traffic. Nevertheless, deficits due to a mental disability do not necessarily mean the end for obtaining a driver's license. The type of mental disability and the degree of impairment are decisive for the issue of a driving license. It is therefore not possible to make a blanket statement about driving licenses; the decision is made on an individual basis. In most cases, a medical-psychological examination (MPU) is required. In particular, cognitive performance is tested, with the focus on perception, orientation, attention, concentration, resilience and reaction time. In addition, a driving test, for example at the TÜV, is required before the first driving lesson in order to prove practical fitness to drive.

If the results of both the MPU and the driving test are positive, a certificate of roadworthiness is issued and nothing stands in the way of driving license training. People with an existing mental disability are advised to look for driving schools that have experience in this area and use special methods to facilitate learning during training. If you already have a driving license and are confronted with a mental disability, this must always be reported to the relevant driving license authority. In most cases, a subsequent assessment is required in order to continue driving safely.

Do you suffer from hemiplegia or spastic paralysis and still don't want to give up the mobile freedom of a driver's license? This article will give you an insight into what you need to bear in mind with these impairments in relation to your driver's license.

Hemiplegia can restrict the movements of the left or right side of the body, either completely (hemiplegia) or partially (hemiparesis), due to brain damage. However, these forms of paralysis should not be an obstacle to obtaining a driver's license. People who are paralyzed on one side due to an accident or illness can also gain mobile freedom. The decisive factor for a driver's license is the cause of the hemiplegia. In the case of paralysis due to brain damage (e.g. craniocerebral trauma), a detailed neurological report is usually required. On the other hand, an orthopaedic report is sufficient in the case of hemiplegia caused by a trapped arm or leg, for example. For novice drivers, hemiplegia generally causes fewer problems than for people who have previously driven a vehicle without paralysis. Relearning can be challenging as it is difficult to break established habits. It is therefore important to choose a driving school that specializes in this area and can offer not only pure driving license training, but also relevant tips for relearning.

In the case of spastic paralysis, which is caused by nerve damage and leads to increased muscle tension, cramps and restricted movement (spastic paresis), special considerations must be made for driving a vehicle. The severity of the spasticity is decisive and it must be decided on a case-by-case basis whether a driver's license can be obtained. It is recommended that you first speak to the doctor treating you. He or she can assess whether it is possible to obtain a driver's license despite the spasticity. Only after a positive assessment by the doctor should you go to the relevant driving license authority. The information provided there will help to clarify which expert opinions are necessary in order to obtain the certificate of roadworthiness. In principle, no adult citizen may be refused a driving license on the basis of a physical impairment. Only if the disability is so severe that safe participation in road traffic is not possible can the license be refused by the driving license authority. Therefore, the first step on the way to a driver's license is a visit to the relevant driving license authority. There it is decided whether medical, aptitude-related and possibly medical-psychological reports are required to assess driving ability. You can also register with the driving license authority through the driving school where you would like to complete your driver training. However, before making a binding application to a driving school, you should submit an application to your benefit provider. You can find information on who your benefits provider might be and what information an application must contain in the "Benefits provider" section.

Depending on the severity of a disability or chronic illness, the ability to drive may be restricted or even excluded in certain cases. The individual decision on the driving license is made on the basis of the various health conditions. Persons who already hold a driving license and develop a physical disability, sensory impairment or cognitive impairment are not legally obliged to report this to the driving license authority (also known as the road traffic authority or driving license office). Nevertheless, the Driving License Ordinance (FeV) stipulates that drivers must take precautions on their own responsibility, both for their own protection and for the protection of other road users. Annexes 4 and 6 of the Driving License Ordinance regulate the conditions under which a driving license can be issued for specific physical or mental impairments. The specific assessment bases for disabilities or illnesses are set out in the assessment guidelines on fitness to drive issued by the Federal Highway Research Institute. (BASt) defined. 

People with physical mobility impairments such as paraplegia, hemiplegia, amputation or short stature can generally drive a vehicle.

• Diabetes Mellitus

People with diabetes normally have the ability to drive a vehicle. However, this ability may be impaired if the disease progresses severely with frequent metabolic imbalances. Stricter rules apply to professional drivers with diabetes. Guidelines. 

Blood sugar level too low

Episodes of low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) often occur unexpectedly and can lead to behavioral problems, loss of consciousness and loss of control. If people with diabetes do not notice their hypoglycemia in time, driving a vehicle is prohibited.

Blood sugar level too high

Conditions of high blood sugar levels (hyperglycaemia) are manifested by weakness, nausea or impaired consciousness. In contrast to hypoglycaemia, they tend to develop gradually and are usually recognized in good time.

• Paraplegia
• Quadriplegia
• Paraplegia (paraplegia and limited quadriplegia)
• Paralysis on one side (hemiplegia), such as after a stroke
• Spina Bifida
• Infantile Cerebral palsy (ICP)
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

As multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system, it manifests itself with a variety of different symptoms and disease progressions. Frequent signs are motor disorders, fatigue, concentration or visual disorders, which can impair road safety. Medical and technical reports as well as driving tests in converted vehicles are usually required to determine fitness to drive.

• Traumatic brain injury (SHT)
• Stroke

A stroke is a neurological disease with many possible effects on mobility. These include hemiparesis, sensory disturbances in the limbs, balance disorders, spasticity, epilepsy, visual field defects, eye movement disorders, attention and concentration disorders as well as associated speech and language disorders (aphasia). Aphasia can impair communication during traffic checks or lead to incorrect interpretations of traffic regulations.

After a Stroke are generally not permitted to drive group 2 vehicles. In the case of professional drivers, the individual effects in particular play a decisive role.

• Epilepsy
• Kidney disease

People who are dependent on dialysis and do not have any severely impairing concomitant illnesses or complications can generally drive a vehicle. Nevertheless, people with kidney disease are subject to continuous medical monitoring and must undergo annual reassessments.

Some people may not feel fit to drive after dialysis treatment. They should therefore always assess their own fitness to drive and, if in doubt, consult their treating doctors. Driving is generally not permitted in the case of severe renal insufficiency.

Permission to drive with epilepsy is influenced by various factors. The type and frequency of the seizures are decisive. Driving a motor vehicle is not permitted as long as there is a risk of seizures, impaired consciousness or motor impairment (even under medication) and there is a potential danger to oneself or others. There are exceptions for people who can demonstrate a longer period without seizures.

After obtaining a driver's license, annual examinations by neurology specialists are initially required for both driving license groups 1 and 2. The assessment guidelines on fitness to drive and the occupational aptitude recommendations of the DGUV's Occupational Medicine Committee only serve as general guidelines. These may be deviated from in special cases.

• Friedreich's ataxia
• Dysmelia (on a VW bus)
• Dwarfism (optionally on automatic and manual transmission)
• Deaf (Directional information via a camera on TFT)

The ability to drive is not impaired by hearing. Some driving schools also offer theoretical lessons in sign language to enable deaf learner drivers to obtain a driving license.

Driving license group 1:

People who are hard of hearing or deaf can drive motorcycles, cars and agricultural vehicles without any special requirements.

Driving license group 2:

People with profound hearing loss (hearing loss of 60 percent or more) and deaf people are subject to certain restrictions for vehicles in Group 2, such as trucks or buses. Prerequisites are a specialist medical aptitude test, regular medical checks and three years of driving experience in a car.

Persons with severe hearing impairments should, if possible, use suitable medical hearing aids. If, in addition to the hearing impairment, there are other serious limitations such as impaired vision or balance, stricter driving conditions may apply. These are determined according to individual assessment criteria. A specialist medical assessment of balance disorders is required for liability in the event of accidents, even if these can be successfully compensated.

• Glass bones (Osteogenesis imperfecta)
• Muscular dystrophy
• Muscular atrophy
• Amputations/ Inability to use
• Poliomyelitis
• Joint stiffening
• Ankylosing spondylitis (ankylosing spondylitis)
• Mild mental disabilities - Intelligence disorders
• Visual impairment
• Parkinson's

An accessible driving school car differs from a normal driving school car in that it has special adaptations that enable people with different disabilities to take driving lessons and obtain their driving license. Here are some possible adaptations:

Vehicle conversions: Disabled driving school cars can be equipped with modifications that enable people with physical disabilities to operate the car. These include, for example, hand controls, foot pedal conversions or ball handles to make steering easier.

Additional controlsFor drivers with reduced mobility, additional controls can be integrated to adapt the driving process. This can be a manual control for accelerator and brake, for example.

Adjustable seats and wheelchair access: To make it easier for people with mobility impairments to access the vehicle, driving school vehicles suitable for the disabled can be equipped with adjustable seats, lifting platforms or ramps for wheelchairs.

Sensor and assistance systems: An accessible driving school car can be equipped with special sensor and assistance systems to offer drivers with different needs more support. This can be an emergency braking system or parking aids for people with limited mobility, for example.

Teaching facilitiesDriving school cars for people with learning disabilities can be equipped with special teaching aids and aids to facilitate the learning process. These can be visual, auditory or tactile aids.

These adaptations vary depending on the type of disability and the individual needs of the learner driver. It is important to note that adapted driving school cars are often provided by specialized driving schools or driving instructors who have experience in training drivers with special needs.

Examples:

Volkswagen Passat Estate

• Hand tools and gas ring
• Left gas
• Loading aids

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

• Cassette lift
• Space Drive System
• Voice control PARAVAN Voice Control
• PARAVAN Touch operating system

Peugeot Traveller

• Cassette lift
• Space Drive System
• Gas ring and handset
• Voice control PARAVAN Voice Control
• PARAVAN Touch operating system

There is no general answer to the question of the cost of driving training for the disabled. The financial outlay is heavily dependent on the individual abilities of the learner driver. In general, higher costs are incurred if more driving lessons are required. However, it should be noted that driving training for people with disabilities is often not significantly more expensive than training for people without disabilities. In some cases, there are even funding opportunities from various organizations or health insurance companies. The cost of a disabled driver's license: On average, the costs are between EUR 1,500 and EUR 2,300 net. However, a disabled driver's license often does not cost much more than a driver's license for people with disabilities without handicap.

The costs for disabled driver training are made up of various components:

• Medical certificate
• Technical report
• Theoretical and practical driving lessons
• Examination fees for theory and practice
• Costs for vehicle conversion in your own car, if applicable

The question of who is responsible for the grant for a disabled driver's license sheds light on the various funding options, which vary depending on employment status. Motor vehicle assistance for socially insured persons is financed by the responsible rehabilitation provider, which includes the statutory pension insurance, the statutory accident insurance or the employment agency. This support is crucial for the vocational rehabilitation of people with disabilities, as it aims to facilitate their participation in working life. For the self-employed and civil servants, on the other hand, financial support is provided by the Integration Office.

The amount of the grant for a disabled driver's license is based on the applicant's net income. If a driving license is absolutely necessary, financial assistance can be applied for, the amount of which depends on income. The scale of support is as follows:

• People with an income of up to 1,320 euros receive full cost coverage for their driving license.
• With an income of up to 1,810 euros, two thirds of the costs are reimbursed.
• An income of up to 2,470 euros results in one third of the costs being covered.

It is possible for people with special requirements due to their disability, such as additional examinations or entries on their driver's license, to be fully reimbursed for the costs incurred.

Persons with disabilities benefit from various special features and concessions when stopping, parking and driving.

• Parking at home and abroad
• Tax reductions for people with disabilities
• Advantages of ADAC membership

Discounts on the purchase of a new car

We have researched vehicle manufacturers and found that many of them offer special discounts based on the "recommended retail price" ("list price") for people with disabilities when buying a new car. This discount is usually granted via the dealer, who in turn receives a rebate from the manufacturer.

Please note: The retailer has the final say in this case and you must negotiate with them, as the discount granted is ultimately at their discretion. It is best to clarify the details and conditions for the discount directly with the seller. There is no legal entitlement to a discount.

What should you look out for in a vehicle discount?

The discount granted generally only applies to the purchase of a new vehicle and is not applicable to day registrations or demonstration vehicles. The vehicle purchased with the discount must usually be registered in the name of the disabled person or the officially appointed accompanying person for at least six months. Some car manufacturers extend the circle of users, for example to the spouse or parent. In the case of a trade-in of a used car, individual negotiations with the dealer are advisable. In addition, in most cases the discount cannot be combined with other promotions, such as special models or financing/leasing conditions. Anyone interested in electric and hybrid vehicles should find out whether an additional disability discount is granted in addition to the environmental bonus. The amount of the rebates varies depending on the manufacturer and dealer. The Bund behinderter Auto-Besitzer e. V. (BbAB) provides an up-to-date overview of discounts.

Alfa Romeo:

The discounts granted by Alfa Romeo depend on the vehicle model and the quarter, and can vary between 2 and 8 percent. In contrast to the previous annual arrangements, the conditions now change on a quarterly basis. Alfa Romeo recommends a discount of between 2 and 8 percent for new vehicles, depending on the model. Decisions and processing are the responsibility of the Alfa Romeo dealer, who has a free hand in designing the offer. To qualify for autonomy, a disability card with a GdB of at least 50 is required.

Audi:

Audi offers people with disabilities special conditions that are determined individually by the respective Audi partner. The amount of the discount for the purchase of a new Audi vehicle can be obtained directly from the dealer. A valid certificate of disability from GdB 50 is required. Factory driving aids are offered for certain model groups. These include the Audi A3, Audi A4, Audi A5, Audi A6, Audi Q2, Audi Q3, Audi Q5 and the all-electric Audi Q4 e-tron.

BMW/Mini:

Special conditions for people with disabilities at BMW and Mini can be obtained directly from the relevant dealer organizations. The conditions are determined individually by the respective dealer and the presentation of a valid disabled person's pass from GdB 50 is required. No factory driving aids are offered, but BMW works closely with selected conversion providers.

Citroën:

Citroën offers model-dependent and time-limited special conditions for people with disabilities. Financial support from the manufacturer's bank for financing and leasing is also possible. The prerequisite is proof of a GdB of at least 50. Factory driving aids are not available, but Citroën cooperates with selected conversion providers, particularly in the field of electromobility.

Dacia:

Due to the low purchase prices, Dacia does not grant any discounts for people with disabilities when purchasing new vehicles.

Fiat:

Fiat offers discounts of between 6 and 11 percent, which vary quarterly and depending on the model. The final decision lies with the Fiat dealer, who is free to decide on the offer. The prerequisite for autonomy is a disability certificate with a GdB of at least 50.

Ford:

Ford does not grant discounts for people with disabilities.

Honda:

Discounts at Honda are individually negotiable, and the decision is at the discretion of the individual authorized Honda dealer. The prerequisite is a GdB of at least 50, regardless of other characteristics.

Hyundai:

The discounts at Hyundai depend on the quarter, model and equipment and are subject to constant change. The prerequisite is a GdB of at least 50. Interested parties can contact their local Hyundai dealer for further details.

Jaguar Land Rover:

The discount granted by Jaguar Land Rover varies depending on the model and equipment. The requirement is a GdB of at least 50, and the first registration must be in the name of the holder of the severely disabled person's pass or a first-degree relative, with a minimum holding period of twelve months.

Jeep:

Jeep recommends discounts of between 5 and 7 percent depending on the model and on a quarterly basis. The final decision and processing lies with the Jeep dealer. The prerequisite for autonomy is a disability card with a GdB of at least 50.

Kia:

Kia recommends discounts of up to 17.5 percent depending on the model for new vehicles. The decision is up to the Kia dealer, who is free to set the discount. Kia works together with MSGmobil-sein GmbH in Berlin for special questions on conversions and legal issues. The optional Kia service flat rate can be requested from the dealer.

Lada:

The supply of new Lada vehicles has been discontinued and there is no importer in Germany, so no discounts are granted.

Mazda:

Mazda's discounts depend on the model and quarter and are constantly changing. Additional subsidies are individually included by the dealer in the offer for people with disabilities.

Mercedes-Benz:

For Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, the discount is 5 percent, with the exception of certain models such as the Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-EQ, G-Class, Mercedes-Maybach S-Class and Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600. For Mercedes-Benz vans, there is a 3 percent discount on the EQV and eVito Tourer, while different discounts apply to other commercial vehicles. Prerequisites are a severely disabled person's pass with a GdB of 50 or more, a minimum holding period of six months and registration in the name of the person with a disability.

MG Motor Germany:

MG Motor Germany does not grant discounts for people with disabilities.

Mitsubishi:

Mitsubishi is offering a discount of up to 16 percent on the Eclipse Cross Plug-in Hybrid. The prerequisite is the presentation of a disability card with a GdB of at least 50. The scheme is valid until revoked and will be updated when new vehicle models are introduced in spring 2023.

Nissan:

Nissan grants discounts of between 15 and 29 percent, depending on the model, for members of the MSG Mobilsein association or BbAB Bund behinderter Auto-Besitzer e.V. The final decision on the discount lies with the Nissan dealer, and a call-off slip from the association must be presented. The registration must be in the name of the disabled person or their spouse.

Opel:

Opel offers model- and quarterly-dependent discounts for people with a GdB of at least 50. In addition, factory-installed driving aids such as hand controls, steering aids and pedal covers are offered for many models.

Peugeot:

Peugeot does not directly grant special discounts for people with disabilities, but special conditions may be available for all models through various associations.

Renault:

Renault offers discounts depending on the model. Members of the Bund behinderter Auto-Besitzer e.V. (BbAB) can receive a discount on the purchase of a new vehicle. Each Renault dealer can grant individual discounts.

Seat:

Seat offers special discounts for the purchase of Cupra Born and other Cupra models, depending on the degree of disability. Prerequisites are a valid disability card with a GdB of at least 50, alternatively written proof of thalidomide damage. The registration must be made in the name of the authorized person.

Škoda:

Škoda grants a 15% discount for people with disabilities, but no special discount on subsidized e-cars. A valid disabled person's pass with a GdB of at least 50 is required.

Subaru:

Subaru grants a discount of 15 percent on all new vehicles, with the exception of the Subaru Solterra electric vehicle. Prerequisites are a severely disabled person's ID card with a GdB of at least 50, a valid driving license, a minimum holding period of six months and 3000 kilometers, as well as registration in the name of the holder of the severely disabled person's ID card.

Suzuki:

Depending on the model, Suzuki grants discounts of between 14 and 18 percent for people with disabilities. These recommendations are not binding and each Suzuki dealer decides independently on the discount to be granted.

Toyota:

Toyota grants model-dependent discounts of between 500 and 1000 euros for people with disabilities. The prerequisites are a severely disabled person's pass with a GdB of at least 50, a minimum holding period of six months and 3000 kilometers, as well as registration in the name of the person with a disability.

Volvo:

Volvo grants a one-off discount of 1000 euros per vehicle for people with disabilities, with the exception of purely electric vehicles. Prerequisites are a disability of at least GdB 50, the purchase contract and registration must be in the name of the disabled person or a first-degree family member.

VW (Volkswagen Passenger Cars):

VW grants up to 15 percent discount on brand-new vehicles, with combustion and hybrid vehicles receiving 15 percent and ID models 4 percent. Prerequisites are a severely disabled person's pass with a GdB of at least 50, a thalidomide impairment or a required driving aid entered on the driver's license.

VW (Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles):

Volkswagen commercial vehicles also grant discounts of between 4 and 24 percent for brand-new vehicles, depending on the model. The prerequisites are also a severely disabled person's pass with a GdB of at least 50, a minimum holding period of six months and 3000 kilometers, as well as registration in the name of the person with a disability.

Parking facilities for the severely disabled

In order to make it easier for people with disabilities to participate in social life and to promote their mobility, the legislator has provided for a number of simplifications. People with a blue EU parking permit may park in designated disabled parking spaces. This regulation applies to the following groups of people:

• Severely disabled persons with an exceptional walking disability (feature "aG" in the severely disabled person's pass)
• Blind people (feature "Bl" in the severely disabled person's pass)
• People with bilateral amelia or phocomelia
• Persons (e.g. children) who do not have a driving license themselves, but for whom the "aG" or "Bl" feature is entered in the severely disabled person's pass

People with an exceptional walking disability (mark "aG" in the severely disabled person's pass) and blind people ("Bl") have the option of obtaining concessions in stationary road traffic by means of exemptions in accordance with Section 46 of the German Road Traffic Act (StVO). The application for such a special permit must be submitted to the local road traffic authority. The exemption is usually granted free of charge for a period of two years and can be revoked at any time.

Even people who do not have a driving license but are dependent on the use of a motor vehicle and can only get around with the help of others receive an exemption permit. This permit only applies to passenger cars and motorcycles.

The blue EU parking permit issued by the competent road traffic authority must be clearly visible on the vehicle, preferably behind the windshield. The card must be provided with a photograph and the personal signature of the authorized person. The EU parking card is also valid in other European countries where it can be used for parking concessions.

Persons with a special permit for severely disabled persons may, among other things:

• park in the parking spaces specially marked with the additional sign "Wheelchair user symbol" (disabled parking spaces),
• park for up to three hours in places where there is a restricted stopping ban; the arrival time must be indicated by a parking disk,
• exceed the permitted parking time in a no-parking zone,
• park beyond the permitted time in places marked "Parking lot" or "Parking on sidewalks" and for which a parking time limit is specified by an additional sign,
• Prolonged parking on certain no-parking zones; the arrival time must be indicated by a parking disk,
• park in pedestrian zones in which loading and unloading is permitted for certain times, even during loading times,
• park in residents' parking spaces for three hours,
• park at parking ticket machines and parking meters without charge and time limit,
• park for up to three hours in areas where there is an absolute stopping ban with the additional sign "Loading and unloading, entry and exit free"; the arrival time must be indicated by a parking disk,
• park outside marked parking spaces in designated traffic-calmed areas if there is no other parking possibility within a reasonable distance; other traffic must not be disproportionately hindered.

Parking space reservation

The responsible road traffic authority can grant people with exceptional walking disabilities (mark "aG" in the severely disabled person's pass) and blind people ("Bl") a special right to park under certain conditions (in accordance with § 45 StVO). Eligible persons have the opportunity to obtain a specially marked, personal parking space in public traffic areas in the immediate vicinity of their home and/or place of work. As a rule, this special parking right is only granted if there is a motor vehicle in the household of the authorized person and no sufficient parking space is available within a reasonable distance, which also includes garages, tenant parking spaces, etc. In the case of tenant or private parking spaces, personal parking spaces must be applied for from the relevant administration, such as a housing association. The allocation is then made in accordance with the relevant guidelines of this administration.

Reductions in vehicle tax

The vehicle tax regulations provide for either a complete exemption or a 50 percent reduction:

Complete Liberation from the motor vehicle tax is granted to severely disabled people who have an ID card with an orange-colored surface imprint and have the "H" (helpless), "Bl" (blind) or "aG" (exceptional walking disability) mark. A vehicle tax reduction of 50 percent is available to people who can prove that their mobility in road traffic is significantly impaired by means of an ID card with an orange imprint and the mark "G" (walking impaired). The same applies to people with the sign "GL" (deaf).

Vehicle tax exemption of 100 percent:

• H = helplessness in the activities of daily living
• Blind = blindness or severe visual impairment
• aG = exceptional walking disability
• War victims under certain conditions

Vehicle tax reduction of 50 percent:

• G = Walking disability
• Gl = deafness

If it is not possible to wear a seat belt for health reasons or if the person is less than 1.50 m tall, it is possible to obtain an exemption from the obligation to wear a seat belt from the local road traffic authority. A person can also be exempted from the obligation to wear a helmet if this is necessary for health reasons. In order to obtain such an exemption, a medical certificate is required in which it is expressly confirmed that the applicant must be exempted from the obligation to wear a seatbelt or helmet on the basis of the medical findings. The diagnosis itself does not have to be stated in the certificate, but a reference to a possible time limit ("temporary"/"indefinite") should be included.

In March 2023, the Federal Social Court made it easier for people with walking disabilities to access disabled parking spaces in its ruling (case reference: B 9 SB 1/22 R, B 9 SB 8/21 R). Accordingly, the ability to walk in public traffic areas is decisive for the award of the "aG" mark and the use of disabled parking spaces. If a severely disabled person can only move permanently outside their motor vehicle with the help of others or with considerable effort, the "aG" sign is awarded, provided that the other necessary conditions are also met. Holders of the "aG" mark on their severely disabled person's pass receive a blue EU parking permit:

Reimbursement of the costs of an aptitude test for driving a motor vehicle - interim legal protection

Court: LSG Munich

Reference number: L 8 SO 343/22 B ER

Judgment from: 25.01.2023

Basis: SGG § 86b Para. 2 S. 2 | SGB X § 49 | SGB IX § 102 Para. 1 No. 4 | SGB IX § 113 Para. 2 No. 7, Para. 3 | SGB IX § 83 Para. 3 | KfzHV § 8 Para. 2

Driving license revocation due to epilepsy

Court: OVG Bremen 1st Senate

Reference number: 1 B 120/21

Judgment from: 08.04.2021

Basis: FeV § 46 | StVG § 3

Guiding principle:

In the case of epilepsy, fitness to drive group 2 vehicles is only given as an exception if the person has been seizure-free for 5 years and no longer needs to take antiepileptic medication.

On the requirements for daytime visual acuity for driving license categories C and C1

Court: VG Koblenz 4th Chamber

File number: 4 K 1332/19.KO

Judgment of: 30.04.2020

Basis:

FeV 2010 § 12 para. 1 |

FeV 2010 § 74 Para. 1 , Annex 6 |

FeV 2010 § 12 , Annex 6 |

FeV 2010 § 48 Para. 5 No. 1.3 |

StVG § 2 para. 2 |

StVG § 2 para. 4 |

StVRZustV RP § 1 , Annex 6 |

FeV 2010 § 48 Para. 4 , Annex 6 |

FeV 2010 § 48 Para. 5 No. 2.2.1

Guiding principles:

1. The exemption rule in No. 2.2.1 of sentence 5 of Annex 6 to Sections 12, 48 (4) and (5) FeV (juris: FeV 2010) does not apply to cases of the first issue of a driving license in the driving license categories of Group 2 (C, C1, CE, C1E, D, D1, DE, D1E).
2. Practical driving lessons to obtain a driving license for a group 2 driving license category are not suitable for demonstrating driving experience and vehicle use in these driving license categories.
3. Social assistance - Integration assistance - Participation in life in the community - Assistance in obtaining and maintaining a motor vehicle and obtaining a driving license - Dependency on the use of a motor vehicle - Referral to reasonable alternatives

Court: LSG Baden-Württemberg 2nd Senate

Reference number: L 2 SO 4058/13

Judgment from: 10.12.2014

Guiding principles:

No claim against the social welfare provider for assistance in obtaining a car if, instead of using a (personal) car, other options are available to a sufficient extent, in particular for visits to the doctor, shopping, attending church services and participating in a music club.

Costs for a disability-related examination of suitability to drive a motor vehicle may be covered as part of benefits for participation in working life or social participation. This also requires a prior application to be submitted.

Compensation for hearing loss in the case of a driving license for passenger transport

Court: OVG Berlin-Brandenburg 1st Senate

Reference number: 1 B 9.07

Judgment of: 26.03.2009

Basis: StVG § 2 Para. 3 | FeV § 11 Para. 1 and 9 | FeV § 48 Para. 4 No. 3 | FeV Annex 4 No. 2.1

Guiding principle:

1. Taking into account scientific and technical progress, sufficiently reliable compensation for a hearing loss of 60 % or more is possible with modern hearing aids in individual cases.
2. The general exclusion of compensation for hearing loss by hearing aids, as provided for in the assessment guidelines for the fitness to drive hearing test, is unlawful.

In this ADAC guide, people with disabilities can find all the information they need at a glance on 43 pages as PDF. 

The Federal Association of Driving Instructors' Associations (BVF) has set up a special "handicap" working group in which specialists deal with all issues relating to training and further training as well as training and compensation for aptitude restrictions.

Addresses:

Baden-Württemberg

0711/8398750 

[email protected]

Bavaria     

089/74914921           

[email protected]

Berlin                              

030/7549180             

[email protected]

Brandenburg    

0331/705089             

[email protected]

Bremen                          

0421/4992031     

[email protected]

Hamburg                       

040/233340                 

[email protected]

Hesse        

069/846397                 

[email protected]

Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania        

0381/4000635                       

[email protected]

Lower Saxony  

0511/8765070                       

[email protected]

NRW                 

02203/2030320                   

 [email protected]

Palatinate         

06321/34462         

[email protected]

Rhineland       

0261/83064               

 [email protected]

Saar                          

06898/910594             

[email protected]

Saxony     

0351/478680           

[email protected]

Saxony-Anhalt   

0391/5415406                         

[email protected]

Schleswig-Holstein 

0431/30748                 

[email protected]

Thuringia   

0361/7315270       

[email protected]

Key no. Meaning

01 Driver requires a visual aid and/or eye protection if this is expressly required by a medical certificate
01.01 Driver wears glasses
01.02 Driver wears contact lenses
01.03 Driver must wear safety goggles
02 Driver needs hearing aid
03 Driver has a prosthesis/orthosis for the limbs
05 Driver has a driving restriction for medical reasons
05.01 Driver may only drive in daylight
05.02 Driver may only drive within a radius of ... km of the place of residence or in urban areas
05.03 Driver may only drive without passenger/co-driver
05.04 Driver must not drive faster than ...km/h
05.05 Driver may only drive with co-driver
05.06 Driver may only drive without trailer
05.07 Driver not allowed on the highway
10 Driver may only drive vehicles with specially adapted gears
15 Driver may only drive vehicles with specially adapted clutch
20 Driver may only drive vehicles with specially adapted braking mechanisms
25 Driver may only drive vehicles with specially adapted acceleration mechanisms
30 Driver may only drive vehicles with specially adapted combined braking and acceleration mechanisms
35 Driver may only drive vehicles with specially adapted operating devices
40 Driver may only drive vehicles with specially adapted steering
42 Driver may only drive vehicles with specially adapted rear-view mirrors
43 Driver may only drive vehicles with a specially adapted driver's seat
45 Motorcycle with sidecar only
51 Driver may only drive a specific vehicle (license plate number)
55 Combinations of vehicle adaptations
73 Driver may only drive three-wheeled and four-wheeled motor vehicles in category B (B1)
78 Driver may only drive automatic
104 Driver must carry a valid medical certificate

The rehabilitation provider (service provider) is obliged to check within a period of two weeks whether it is responsible for processing your application. If it is not responsible, it must forward your application to the appropriate body without delay and inform you accordingly.

If the benefit provider requires additional documents or records from you in order to decide on your application, they are obliged to inform you of this within two weeks of receiving your application.

If the rehabilitation provider is responsible for processing your application, it must make a decision within three weeks as to whether your application will be granted.

It is advisable to lodge an objection immediately and to substantiate this objection objectively. If necessary, you can seek support from people who have experience with applications for motor vehicle assistance, such as members of the "Mobil durchs Leben e.V." association.

It may also make sense to strengthen your appeal with an expert opinion if necessary. If you have received a negative decision from your benefit provider, you should lodge an objection immediately in order to meet all deadlines. You can submit the detailed reasons for your appeal at a later date if necessary.

This procedure gives you the opportunity to respond in detail to the rejection notice and to take action against the rejection of your application. During this process, you should contact people who already have experience with applications for motor vehicle assistance. Associations such as "Mobil durchs Leben e.V." are happy to assist you with their experience and offer their support free of charge. They can also provide you with information on whether and how you can support your objection with an expert opinion.

People with disabilities have various options to increase their mobility, including obtaining a "disabled car without license" or obtaining a specially adapted "disabled car license". The "disabled driver's license" is an important step towards independence, and many countries offer adapted driving tests for the "disabled driver's license".

In many cases, support is available in the form of "führerschein mit behinderung kostenübernahme" to cover the costs associated with obtaining a "führerschein behinderung". People with disabilities can obtain their "driver's license with disability" through special training programs that are tailored to the individual needs of the learner driver. For many, the "driver's license for people with disabilities" is more than just a document - it is proof of freedom.

There is also financial assistance, such as the "führerschein behinderung zuschuss", which can reduce the financial burden for those affected and their families. Holders of a "schwerbehindertenausweis führerschein" may also be entitled to special benefits or a "schwerbehinderung führerschein zuschuss".

The "disabled driver's license" is not a separate driver's license, but a regular driver's license that certifies that the holder is able to drive safely despite their limitations. The process of obtaining a "disabled driver's license" can be challenging, but the freedom it offers is priceless for many.