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Entrepreneur Exam (Unternehmerpruefung)
GewO §23
Verified: April 2026
Short answer: You probably don't need a separate exam.
Since 2017, the entrepreneur exam module is integrated into all Master exams
and qualification exams. You only need a separate Unternehmerpruefung in rare cases.
What Is the Entrepreneur Exam?
The Unternehmerpruefung tests basic business knowledge:
- Business law and trade law basics
- Accounting and bookkeeping fundamentals
- Tax essentials (income tax, VAT, payroll tax)
- Social insurance for self-employed (SVS)
- Marketing and business planning basics
When You Don't Need a Separate Exam
| Situation | Separate Exam? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Taking a Master exam (Meisterpruefung) | No | Integrated since 2017 |
| Taking a qualification exam (Befaehigungspruefung) | No | Integrated since 2017 |
| University/FH degree in business | No | Business knowledge recognized |
| HAK diploma (commercial high school) | No | Business education sufficient |
| Individual assessment (§19) | No | Not part of the assessment |
| Free trade registration | No | No qualification needed at all |
When You Might Need It
A separate Unternehmerpruefung may be required if:
- You passed your Master/qualification exam before 2017 (old format without integrated module)
- You use foreign qualifications that don't include business knowledge
- Specific edge cases determined by the district authority
The Exam Itself
If You Do Need It
- Cost: €0 (government covers since 2023)
- Preparation: WIFI course (~2-4 weeks, €300-600)
- Format: Written exam, multiple choice + open questions
- Pass rate: High (with preparation)
- Alternatives: HAK diploma, university business degree
Related Guides
General guidance only, not legal advice. Last verified: April 2026.
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