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Germany workpermit for non-EU truck driver

Non-EU truck drivers may be granted permission for domestic employment in Germany as a professional driver in goods and passenger transport with buses if they hold an EU or EEA driver's license and the basic qualifications or accelerated basic qualifications required by EU Directive 2003/59/EC and EU Directive 2006/126/EC. Additionally, for employment with a specific employer, the employment contract must commit the employee to participate in measures to obtain the required driver's license and qualifications, the working conditions must allow for the obtaining of the license and qualifications within 15 months, a specific job offer for domestic employment as a professional driver must be provided, and the employee must provide proof of having the relevant driver's license in their country of origin. This permission is granted for up to 15 months and with priority review for future employment as a professional driver.

If a non-EU truck driver wants to work in Germany, they may need to pass a German language test from the Goethe-Institut at levels A1, A2, or B1. These language tests are designed to assess the individual's ability to understand and communicate in German in various everyday situations. The A1 level is for basic communication, A2 level for basic survival needs and B1 level for independent communication. Passing these tests is a requirement of the German authorities for some types of work permit or visa. Goethe-Institut is a global organization that promotes German language and culture, it is one of the most recognized institutes for German language testing.

The Employment of Foreigners Regulation (BeschV) § 24a states that permission can be granted for domestic employment as a professional driver in goods and passenger transport with buses if they hold an EU or EEA driver's license and the basic qualifications or accelerated basic qualifications required by EU Directive 2003/59/EC on the basic qualifications and continuing training of drivers of certain vehicles for road transport and amending Council Regulation (EEC) No 3820/85 and Directive 91/439/EEC and repealing Directive 76/914/EEC and EU Directive 2006/126/EC on driving licenses. This permission is given with priority review, and does not apply if a previous permission has been granted for employment with the same employer. Additionally, for employment with a specific employer, the employment contract must commit the employee to participate in measures to obtain the required driver's license and qualifications, the working conditions must allow for the obtaining of the license and qualifications within 15 months, a specific job offer for domestic employment as a professional driver must be provided, and the employee must provide proof of having the relevant driver's license in their country of origin. This permission is granted for up to 15 months and with priority review for future employment as a professional driver.

Non-EU car and truck heavy goods driverlicence, when becoming new resident in germany:
For a non-EU national to change their driver's license from car category B to heavy goods vehicle category CE in Germany, they will need to meet certain requirements. This typically includes passing a theoretical and practical exam for the CE category, as well as meeting the necessary medical and physical requirements. The individual will also need to have the appropriate qualifications and experience for operating a heavy goods vehicle.
It is important to note that different countries have different regulations on how to change a driver's license category, and the requirements may vary depending on the country of origin of the driver's license. Therefore, it is best to check with the relevant authorities in Germany or consult a specialized driving school for more detailed information on the specific requirements.

It's also important to note that the non-EU national may have their original driver's license be converted to EU-driver's license in order to be able to drive in Germany. If a non-EU national holds a valid driver's license issued by a country outside the EU or EEA, they can usually exchange it for a German driver's license. This is usually done by the driving license agency. However, they may need to pass a German driving test if the foreign driver's license does not meet German standards.

According to German law, fleet managers of transport companies are mandated to ensure that the driving licenses of their truck drivers are valid and up-to-date. This includes verifying that the licenses meet the necessary legal requirements and that they have not expired or been revoked. Failure to comply with this legal obligation may result in penalties for the transport company and its management. It is crucial for fleet managers to stay informed of the latest regulations and to conduct regular checks on the validity of their drivers' licenses to avoid any legal issues.
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