Berufsbildung: Meisterprüfung

The master craftsman's examination determines whether the examinee is qualified to practice a craft and to lead it independently and to train apprentices properly. The master craftsman's examination is also proof of the necessary theoretical and technical, business, commercial, legal and vocational educational knowledge.

The master craftsman's examination is administered by a state examination authority (master craftsman's examination board) established at the seat of the competent authority. The passed master craftsman's examination entitles the holder to use a master craftsman's title and is certified with the master craftsman's certificate.

The exam is divided into four independent parts:

• Part I: practical examination,
• Part II: technical theory test,
• Part III: economic, commercial and legal audit,
• Part IV: Vocational and work pedagogical examination.

The order in which the partial examinations are taken can be determined by the candidate. There is no time limit from the first to the taking of the fourth part of the examination. Failed examinations can be repeated three times.

Before registering for the examination, admission to the master craftsman's examination must be applied for. The prerequisite for admission to the master craftsman's examination is usually a successfully passed journeyman's examination in the craft in which the master craftsman's examination is to be taken. The exact approval guidelines are laid down in the Crafts Code (HwO). In many skilled trades, in addition to a work sample, a master craftsman's examination project must also be carried out in the practical examination.  

Admission is granted by the chairman of the master craftsman's examination committee. If the chairman considers that the admission requirements are not met, the entire master craftsman's examination committee shall decide.  

The application for authorisation shall be accompanied by:

• the evidence justifying the competence of the master craftsman's examination board,
• the certificate attesting to the journeyman's examination, a corresponding final examination or a certificate equivalent to such certificates
• in the case of § 49 Abs. 2 of the Handwerksordnung (HwO) of the
  • Proof of prescribed professional activity
  • Proof of attendance at a technical college
• in the case of § 49 Abs. 3 HwO
  • Proof of other practical activity
• other certificates (e.g. trainer aptitude certificate).

When registering for each part of the master craftsman's examination, the candidate must submit the proof justifying the competence of the competent authority and the notification of admission.  

Fees apply.

In the interest of the candidate, the application for admission to the master craftsman's examination must be submitted in good time before the start of the course, so that there is already clarity about admission and participation in the master craftsman's examination at the beginning of the course.

The responsibility lies with the Chamber of Crafts.

The master craftsman's examination board is responsible for the acceptance of each part of the master craftsman's examination, in whose local jurisdiction the candidate

• has his first place of residence, or
• is in an employment relationship, or
• attends a measure to prepare for the master craftsman's examination, or
• operates a craft or other trade independently.