Five face trial for faking German driving theory tests for profit
Five people from Bielefeld and Werther are standing trial for taking driving theory tests on behalf of others using fake identities. The scheme allegedly ran from February 2022 to July 2025, with the group charging between €1,100 and €2,000 per test. Investigators claim the operation earned around €35,000 before being exposed.
The fraud came to light during a separate investigation by Hanover Regional Court. Authorities uncovered evidence that the defendants had used stand-ins resembling the real candidates to sit exams. One individual is accused of organising the entire network.
The trial at Bielefeld Regional Court began recently and is scheduled to run until late May, with eight trial days planned. The five accused face charges of commercial deception and related offences. If found guilty, they could receive prison sentences ranging from six months to ten years. Records show the group carried out 71 fraudulent tests, though 14 were stopped before completion. Some defendants already have prior convictions for similar crimes. Meanwhile, five additional investigations into the same individuals remain open, linked to a New Year's Eve bar fire in Crans-Montana. Those cases involve allegations of negligent homicide, bodily harm, and arson.
The court will now examine the evidence over the coming weeks. A verdict will determine whether the defendants receive prison time or other penalties. The outcome may also impact the ongoing investigations into their other alleged crimes.
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