Determination (recognition) of professional aptitude to train apprentices (Ausbildereignung) under the Berufsbildungsgesetz (BBiG) (Vocational Training Act)

In Germany, the Berufsbildungsgesetz (Vocational Training Act) determines who is entitled to train young people. As a basic principle, anyone wishing to train in an occupation is suitable as a trainer (Ausbilder) if they themselves have successfully learned that occupation. Today, however, it is no longer a given that employees remain in their learned occupation for their entire working life. Many people change jobs for various reasons, sometimes several times. They move into new professional territory – in some cases also as self-employed entrepreneurs. In doing so, they acquire professional knowledge and experience in their new occupation, which also qualifies them to train young talent in that field. For this group of people, the legislature has created the option of being granted trainer eligibility (Ausbildereignung), so that this acquired qualification can be used and passed on in training. The following sets out, for skilled workers interested in training activity, the path that leads to this trainer qualification.