Briefing
The German Bundestag will debate and decide at today’s plenary sitting on two government proposals: reform of driving instruction and reorganisation of long-term care insurance. Both bills are on the agenda for their final debate.
The driving licence reform is being introduced through a bill to amend the Driving Instructors Act and other road traffic legislation. According to the Federal Ministry of Transport, the proposal aims to modernise training, reduce administrative burdens and lower the cost of obtaining a driving licence. Plans include expanding digital theory-learning options and simplifying evidence and record-keeping requirements. It also aims to align professional and European legal requirements more precisely. The Transport Committee discussed the draft at a public hearing on 5 October 2026 and then continued its deliberations.
At the same time, Parliament is considering the bill to reorganise long-term care insurance, the Care Reorganisation Act. According to Bundestag documents, the proposal would adjust funding and benefit structures. Key issues include a revised distribution of costs between the federal and state governments, as well as clarifications on payment flows. The Health Committee is the lead committee; other committees submitted their comments. The federal government says it is necessary to manage rising expenditure while ensuring reliable benefits.
Both projects are politically contentious. In the driving licence reform debate, relief for learner drivers is being weighed against road safety requirements. The debate on the Long-Term Care Reorganisation Act focuses on the states’ financial contributions, possible changes to contributions and ensuring comprehensive provision of care. Parliamentary groups have announced amendments, which the plenary will consider alongside the government bills.
Further legislative steps will follow the vote. Depending on whether approval is required, the Bundesrat may consider the decisions. Both proposals had previously been included in the parliamentary timetable and prepared by the relevant committees. Today’s plenary session thus brings together decisions on transport and health policy that could have a significant impact on driving instruction and the funding of care in Germany.
Editor: Clara Simonichek (Article created with AI assistance).