Working Conditions in the Vocational Training Contract in Germany 2025

The working hours in the training contract in Germany are subject to clear legal regulations to protect the health and well-being of trainees and to ensure that the training runs properly. Both the Working Hours Act (ArbZG) and the Youth Employment Protection Act (JArbSchG) apply if the trainee is a minor. The training contract must clearly define the daily and weekly working hours, break regulations, as well as special provisions for overtime. The regulations are intended to ensure a balanced combination of practical training in the company and theoretical training in the vocational school.

The vacation entitlement in the training contract is legally regulated and must take into account the specific provisions of the Youth Employment Protection Act (JArbSchG) and the Federal Vacation Act (BUrlG). It guarantees the trainee the necessary recovery and regeneration time during the training period. The exact number of vacation days depends on the trainee's age, the year of training, and the regulations in the training contract. The entitlement should be firmly anchored in the contract and can often be supplemented by collective or company agreements.

The remuneration in the training contract is a central component and regulates the financial compensation of the trainee during the training period. It must be documented in writing in the training contract and adhere to statutory or collective requirements. The training remuneration is intended to support the trainee's living expenses without jeopardizing the training purpose. In addition to the monthly remuneration, additional benefits such as Christmas bonuses, vacation pay, or capital-forming benefits can also be agreed upon in the contract. The amount of the remuneration varies depending on the industry, region, and training year.

The probation period in the vocational training (Ausbildung) contract serves both the training company and the trainee to ascertain suitability for the chosen vocational training (Ausbildung). It is a legally mandated component of every training contract and must be documented in writing in the contract. During the probation period, both parties can terminate the training relationship without stating reasons and without adhering to a notice period. The probation period enables the assessment of compatibility between the training company and the trainee to avoid long-term conflicts or discontinuations.