Credit for a driving licence: Achieve new mobility with small instalments
17 May 2025
4
Minutes
Katrin Straub
CEO at nextsure
The cost of obtaining a driving licence can quickly reach several thousand euros. A loan for the driving licence with small instalments can make this financial burden manageable. We show you how to find the right financing and what you need to pay attention to.
The topic in brief and concise terms
The cost of a Class B driving licence in Germany usually ranges between 2,500 and 4,500 euros.
An instalment loan with fixed interest rates and terms offers the greatest planning security for financing.
Alongside a regular income, a good SCHUFA score (above 95 percent) is crucial for credit approval.
Cost Analysis: This is how much a Class B driving license really costs
The total cost for a driver's license (class B) in Germany averages between 2,500 and 4,500 euros. This amount consists of various items, which vary depending on the driving school and region. The basic fee alone is often between 350 and 565 euros.
The largest cost factor is the driving lessons, the number of which depends on individual learning progress. In addition to the twelve legally required special trips (cross-country, motorway, night), there are numerous practice hours. A single driving lesson costs between 55 and 77 euros.
Additionally, there are external fees that are often overlooked. You should expect approximately 25 euros for the theoretical exam and around 130 euros for the practical one. A first aid course, eye test, and application fee at the authority add up to another 100 to 150 euros. An exact household budget helps to keep track. This cost structure clearly shows why solid financial planning is essential.
Financing options: The installment loan as a flexible solution
To cover the costs, a classic instalment loan is often the best choice. Unlike financing offers from driving schools, which may include higher interest rates or processing fees, a bank loan offers more transparency. You receive the agreed amount and repay it in fixed monthly instalments.
An example calculation illustrates this: With a loan amount of €3,000 and a term of 36 months, the monthly burden is manageable. The key advantage is the planning security through fixed interest rates and instalments. With an online calculator, you can adjust the rate to your budget. The following options are available:
Classic instalment loan: Fixed term, fixed interest, no purpose restriction.
Credit line: Flexibly available credit line, interest is only charged on the amount used.
Financing through the driving school: Convenient but often associated with higher costs than an independent loan.
Small loan: For amounts up to €3,000, often with simplified approval conditions.
The right model choice depends on your financial situation and the required amount.
Credit Requirements: Paving the Way for Approval
Banks assess several criteria before granting a loan to evaluate the risk of default. A regular income is one of the most important prerequisites. For young applicants without a steady job, this can be a hurdle. A guarantor, such as a parent, can significantly increase the chances of approval.
Another key factor is a positive SCHUFA credit report. A base score of over 95 percent indicates good creditworthiness. Negative entries can make it more difficult to obtain a loan, but not impossible. The basic requirements for a loan application are:
Legal age (at least 18 years old)
Permanent residence in Germany
German bank account for disbursement
Proof of regular income (salary, training allowance)
Sufficient creditworthiness (credit rating)
For apprentices or students, there are often special conditions, such as those found in student car financing. Preparing documents carefully can significantly speed up the process.
Expert Tips: How to Secure the Best Terms
When comparing loan offers, you should not only look at the monthly installment. The annual percentage rate (APR) is the key figure, as it already includes most of the additional costs associated with the loan, unlike the nominal interest rate. A low APR means a lower overall burden over the term.
Our expert tip: Look for the option of free extra repayments in the loan contract. This allows you to pay off the loan faster if you unexpectedly come into money, saving on interest. The option to skip a payment also offers financial flexibility in unforeseen expenses. A loan with a long term does reduce the installments but increases the total costs.
Additionally, as a consumer, you have a statutory right of withdrawal. You can cancel a loan agreement within 14 days of its conclusion without providing any reason. This gives you extra security in case you find a better offer shortly after signing.
Digital to the Goal: The Easy Way to a Driving Licence Loan
Applying for a loan is now completely digital. After comparing various offers and selecting the right loan, you fill out the application online. Identity verification is conveniently done via video identification from home in just a few minutes.
The contract signing also takes place digitally, usually with a qualified electronic signature. This eliminates the need for postal mail, significantly speeding up the entire process. After successful review of all documents, the loan amount is often credited to your account within two to three working days. An online loan with instant approval further shortens the waiting time.
This efficiency ensures that you quickly have the financial means for your driving licence. This allows you to fully focus on your driving lessons and embark on the road to mobile independence without financial worries.
Request a personalised risk analysis now
Financing a driving licence with small installments is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Our experts are here to help you analyse your financial situation and find the right coverage. Get your insurance situation checked for free and receive specific optimisation suggestions tailored to your needs.
More useful links
Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA) provides statistics on driving licenses in Germany.
Statistisches Bundesamt (Destatis) offers comprehensive information on transport and traffic.
Statistisches Bundesamt (Destatis) delivers data and analysis on income, consumption, living conditions, wealth, and debt.
Deutsche Bundesbank publishes statistics on interest rates and yields for consumer loans to private households.
Bundesministerium für Digitales und Verkehr (BMDV) provides an official overview of different driving license categories.
Statistisches Bundesamt (Destatis) offers a publication on traffic accidents involving those aged 18 to 24.
Fahrlehrerverband Deutschland provides information and resources regarding driver training.
FAQ
What loan term is sensible for a driving licence loan?
A common term for a driving licence loan is between 24 and 48 months. A shorter term means higher payments but lower overall costs. A longer term reduces the monthly burden but makes the loan more expensive overall.
What is the difference between the nominal interest rate and the effective interest rate?
The nominal interest rate (or nominal rate) refers to the pure interest costs for the loan. The effective annual interest rate also includes most additional costs such as processing fees and is therefore the more meaningful metric for comparing loan offers.
Can I repay a loan for the driver's license early?
Yes, early repayment is generally possible. Look for the agreement on free special repayments in the contract. Otherwise, the bank may charge an early repayment fee, which is legally capped at a maximum of one percent of the amount repaid early.
Does a guarantor improve my credit chances?
Yes, significantly. A guarantor with good creditworthiness, such as a parent, serves as additional security for the bank and increases the likelihood of loan approval, especially for young applicants with low or irregular income.
How quickly is an online loan paid out?
Once all documents have been submitted and reviewed and identification has been carried out via video ID, the loan amount is usually transferred to your account within two to three business days.
What happens if I can't pay an installment?
If you are unable to make an instalment payment, contact your bank immediately. Many loan agreements offer the option of a payment holiday. Otherwise, reminder fees and a negative SCHUFA entry may be the consequence.
