German driving license categories and EU standards explained

German driving licenses follow the standardized European Union card format, which lists all possible driving categories on the reverse side. This explains why certain categories, such as the B1 class, appear on German licenses but are crossed out.

The B1 category is an optional EU license for light four-wheeled vehicles known as quadricycles. While countries like Italy, France, Spain, and Portugal utilize this class, Germany has chosen not to issue it. Consequently, drivers in Germany must hold a standard Class B license to operate such vehicles, though a valid B1 license obtained in another EU member state is generally recognized within Germany.

Additionally, the reverse of the license contains specific codes known as key numbers. These numbers, regulated by the Driver's License Ordinance (FeV), indicate specific restrictions, requirements, or additional information. Two-digit codes are valid across the entire European Union, whereas three-digit codes are specific to Germany.