exception approval management

Apply for an extension for the practical driving test

In certain cases, you can request a longer period for your practical driving test.

Use Online-Service

Exceptions relating to traffic

Detailed description

Once you've passed the theory test, you have 12 months to take your practical driving test. In exceptional circumstances, this period can be extended by up to three months. For example, if you are unable to take driving lessons or take your practical driving test due to a serious illness. You must apply for the extension in a timely manner.

 

Information

Prerequisites

  • This is an urgent individual case. The responsible authority will examine and decide on a case-by-case basis.
  • You passed your theory test less than 12 months ago.
  • You have not taken any driving lessons during the period of your illness.
  • There should be a maximum gap of one month between your practical driving lessons (except when you present a corresponding certificate justifying this).

Documents required

  • Proof of training from the driving school
  • A medical certificate stating that the student driver was not allowed to take driving lessons for medical reasons. The illness must last at least one month and must be clearly documented on the certificate.

Please note

If you fail to submit your application for an extension on time, or if your application is not approved, you will have to retake the theory test. This means you will also have to pay the registration fee again.

Deadlines

You must apply for the extension within 12 months of passing your theory test.

Procedure

  • To apply, use the digital application process (link to the online service "Driving License Theory Examination Period Extension" under the Links tab). Alternatively, submit your application by mail or email, including all required documents.
  • The responsible authority will review your application and send you the results by post.

Any queries from you or the responsible authority can be handled via the digital application process or can be made by telephone or email.

Processing time

The processing time is usually 2 - 6 weeks.

Fees

60.00 EUR.


The exact calculation is based on the actual expenditure and is based on the fee schedule for measures in road traffic (GebOSt).

Legal remedies

Contradiction

Legal basis

Section 74 (1) of the Driving Licence Ordinance (FeV)


https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/fev_2010/__74.html


Section 18 paragraph 2 of the Driving Licence Ordinance (FeV)


https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/fev_2010/__18.html

Links on hamburg.de

Links on the Internet

Address and contact information

exception approval management

Mon 7am-2pm, Tue+Thu 7am-4pm, Fri 7am-12pm, Wed closed, no appointment necessary

Please use the entrance at Süderstraße 142. Sign engravers can be found on site.


There is a photo booth (speed capture terminal).


QR codes from appointment confirmations can be scanned provided the display of your mobile device is not cracked or otherwise damaged.

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Keywords: Theory test Theoretical driving test Driving test, theory, deadline extension Exemption, extension of the practical driving test Driving test, practice, deadline extension Practical driving test

Last updated: 14.02.2026