ACV: Young Adults Desire Cars, But Driving Test Costs Are a Major Hurdle
A vast majority of young adults in Germany still want their own car, but the high cost of obtaining a driver's license is becoming a significant barrier. The ACV calls for modernization and affordability.
Cologne – Ninety-four percent of young Germans under 25 still aspire to own a car, a desire that contrasts with a declining trend in driver's license acquisition. According to a survey by Civey commissioned by DEVK, the increasing cost of obtaining a license is cited as a major obstacle by the ACV Automobil-Club Verkehr.
The survey revealed that 93.7 percent of young adults wish for their own vehicle. This high figure stands in contrast to data showing a decrease in driver's license ownership among 17- to 20-year-olds. Between 2012 and 2023, the proportion holding a Class B license dropped from 55 percent to 41 percent.
ACV highlights that the cost of obtaining a driver's license in Germany, ranging from approximately 2,000 to over 4,000 euros, is proving unaffordable for many. "The mobility of the young generation must not become a luxury good in Germany," stated ACV Managing Director Holger Küster, emphasizing the license's role in social participation and employment opportunities.
Comparisons with other European countries, such as France (around 1,800 euros), Italy (around 1,300 euros), and Austria (around 1,500 euros), indicate that Germany's costs are considerably higher. The ACV suggests that digitalization can play a key role in reducing expenses, through tools like interactive learning platforms and simulated tests, potentially improving pass rates and decreasing the need for costly re-tests.
The supervised driving program starting at age 17 (BF17) has become well-established in Germany and is supported by the ACV. This initiative is seen as providing valuable early driving experience and enhancing safety, with research from BASt indicating a lower accident rate for BF17 participants compared to non-participants.