Standard car licence
Cars with a maximum authorised mass of up to 3.5 t and no more than eight passenger seats. Training and test in a manual car: no automatic-only restriction.
From age 18 · theory and practical tests
EkoDrive driving school · Winnenden
Category B & BF17 car licences
At EkoDrive, you learn to drive in modern BMWs through personal, structured training, with the aim of driving safely and independently.
Your path to a car licence in Winnenden
Category BBF17B197B78
Whether you want a standard licence from age 18, accompanied driving from 17 or automatic car training, we will work out which option suits you.
The number of practical lessons depends on your progress. Daily driving lessons may also be possible if scheduling allows.
AI-editedDelivery expected in spring 2027
FutureDrive: our new driving simulator for category B
At EkoDrive, we expect delivery of our new driving simulator with a motion module in spring 2027. It will let you practise your first driving routines calmly and prepare for driving in a training car.
As soon as the simulator is ready to use, we will let you know when training starts and how to book.
Clear & concise
B, BF17, B197 and B78: what is the difference?
The main car licence options at a glance. We help you choose the right route.
Accompanied driving from 17
Drive from age 17, accompanied by a previously registered, approved person until your 18th birthday.
From age 17 · accompanying person required
Test in an automatic, drive a manual too
The practical test takes place in an automatic car. Required manual driving training and an assessment drive allow you to drive manual cars with category B too.
At least 10 × 45 min manual lessons + 15 min assessment
Automatic-only car licence
The practical test takes place in an automatic car, without proof of manual driving competence. Afterwards, category B generally permits you to drive automatic vehicles only.
Automatic-only restriction (code 78)
This information describes the standard requirements. We discuss individual circumstances and current authority procedures with you personally.
Category B
Car licence with individually tailored theory and practical training.
Accompanied driving from 17
BF17 allows accompanied driving subject to the legal requirements.
B197 / B78
Automatic car training and code B197 explained clearly: Details →
A quick explanation
Questions about car licences
Key answers about BF17 and your training.
Who can accompany me with BF17?
The accompanying person must be registered by name, be at least 30 and have held a valid category B licence for at least five years. At the relevant time of application, they may have no more than one point in the German driving fitness register.
These are the basic requirements. Further rules apply when accompanying a learner, which we explain before you start.
Does the accompanying person have to be a parent?
No. Other people can also accompany you if they meet the requirements and are registered. Until your 18th birthday, you may only drive with an approved accompanying person.
How many regular driving lessons do I need?
That depends on your progress, previous experience and confidence in traffic. There is no fixed number of regular practice lessons that suits everyone. We discuss your current level and next steps with you.
Questions? We're here to help.
Send us a message, call us or use our non-binding online pre-registration. We'll advise you personally.