DTB exams
German Test for the Workplace (DTB)
in Stuttgart, Heilbronn, Esslingen & Waiblingen
Language tests DTB
The German Test for the Workplace (DTB) is the official final exam for vocational language courses according to
Section 45a of the Residence Act (DeuFöV) and certifies job-related German language skills at the level
A2, B1, B2 or C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
At tricos Bildung & Coaching you prepare yourself at our locations in
Stuttgart, Heilbronn, Esslingen and Waiblingen specifically targeting the DTB.
As a course provider approved by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF), we will accompany you step by step
to your language certificate for education, recognition and the job market in Germany.
What is the DTB?
The German test for professional purposes is a nationally standardized, state-recognized language test that has been in use since [date missing]
He will complete all vocational language courses on July 1, 2022. He will be taught exclusively by accredited DTB testing centers
carried out and checks how well you are doing at the workplace You can communicate in German –
in the team, with customers, with superiors and in written communication.
Four skills are tested – always closely related to typical situations from everyday professional life:
- To read – Work instructions, emails, forms, technical texts
- Hear – Phone calls, meetings, announcements, instructions
- Write – professional emails, notes, reports, statements
- Speak – Pair exam with job-related conversation and negotiation tasks
The four DTB exams are structured the same way: the types of tasks and the procedure are similar, as is the level of difficulty
It depends on the respective language level. The written part takes approximately [duration], depending on the level
2 to 2.5 hours, the oral exam, for example 16 minutes per pair.
The DTB exam is taken as a paper-based exam; a partial exam is not possible.
What skill levels does the DTB (German Tennis Federation) have?
- DTB A2 – easy communication in familiar professional situations
- DTB B1 – independent communication in everyday work
- DTB B2 – most frequent goal: prerequisite for many training courses, recognition procedures and specialist professions
- DTB C1 – sophisticated professional and management communication, including for academic healthcare professions and nursing
We will determine the right level for you together in a free assessment.
For Doctors, nurses and other regulated professions is usually B2 or C1 necessary.
Vocational language course & DTB
The Vocational language course (BSK) builds on
Integration course up and leads you
from your current level to the next language goal:
- Basic courses B1, B2 and C1 – depending on the course format, 400 to 500 teaching units
- Special courses – e.g. for nursing professions, academic healthcare professions, crafts, retail trade or the recognition procedure
- Bridge elements – for the transition from A2 to B1 or B1 to B2
Every vocational language course ends with the DTB exam at the respective target level.
If you pass, you will receive a nationally recognized certificate that is accepted by employers, chambers of commerce and authorities.
At tricos you can find vocational language courses as Morning, afternoon and evening courses – even alongside work.
Requirements for participation in the DTB
To be eligible to take the German language test for professional purposes, you must participate in a vocational language course. You will usually receive your eligibility certificate through:
- the Employment Agency or that Job center (for job seekers and benefit recipients)
- the BAMF – e.g. for employees, trainees or persons in the recognition procedure
- your Employer, who releases you from work for the course or registers you
- one Self-payment, if no funding is possible
Important: There is always a course before it begins classificationShe makes sure you're in the right place
You start at a course level and take the DTB exam with a realistic chance of success.
We will review your documents and tell you which way is fastest in your case.
DTB or DTZ – what is the difference?
- Goal: The DTZ demonstrates everyday German, the DTB German for professional purposes.
- Level: DTZ = A2 or B1. DTB = A2, B1, B2 or C1.
- Course: The DTZ completes the integration course, the DTB the Vocational language course.
- Purpose: DTZ for residence permit and naturalization, DTB for Occupation, training and professional recognition.
For many participants, the path is: Integration course → DTZ → Vocational language course → DTB.
How does tricos prepare you for the DTB?
- Training on the exam format – we practice each part of the exam individually, with the types of tasks you can expect in the DTB
- Original model tests under real exam conditions, including time management
- Writing training with individual feedback regarding emails, notes and statements
- Simulated pair exam, so that you can master the oral part confidently and without nervousness
- Experienced teachers with BAMF additional qualification for vocational German language support
- Honest assessmentCheck whether your level is sufficient for the exam date – before you take the exam
Frequently asked questions about the DTB
How much does the German language test for professional purposes cost?
For eligible participants, the exam is part of the subsidized vocational language course.
Employees typically pay a contribution per lesson; those with an eligibility certificate
Those who have a job offer from the employment agency or job center are usually exempt.
Can I take the DTB exam without a course?
No. The DTB is the final exam for vocational language courses and is only offered to course participants.
If you need a certificate without taking a course, we can advise you on alternatives such as telc or Goethe-Zertifikat.
How many times can I repeat the DTB exam?
Repeating the course is possible. Under certain conditions, the course or course module can be completed
The exam can be repeated and retaken – we will clarify this individually with you and the funding body.
How long is the DTB certificate valid for?
The certificate is valid indefinitely. Individual bodies – for example, in the recognition process –
However, they may require that the proof is not older than a certain period of time.
When will I receive my results?
The evaluation is carried out centrally. The results are usually available within a few weeks
Your certificate shows the points achieved in each part of the exam.
Your next step
Start your professional language course at tricos and take the German test for the workplace with preparation,
which is precisely tailored to your language goal and your profession – for better job application opportunities,
Education and professional recognition in Germany.
Contact us: We will take care of the assessment, advise you on funding options and find a suitable course date at your location.
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