Kenntnisprüfung in Hesse

• Oral part: case presentation and professional discussion (Fachgespräch) on the competence areas (Kompetenzbereiche) of the PflAPrV (nursing training and examination regulation)
• Practical part: care of patients in 2–4 nursing situations (real or simulated, § 45 PflAPrV) at a hospital or nursing school
• No written part – the Kenntnisprüfung is purely oral and practical (§ 45 PflAPrV)
• The exam language is German; B2 level is usually required

At the HLfGP: €110 for the equivalence assessment (Gleichwertigkeitsprüfung) and another €110 for the professional licence (Berufserlaubnis) (according to the HLfGP, as of 10/2026). The fee for the Kenntnisprüfung itself is set by the exam school – the HLfGP does not state an amount. On top of that there may be costs for preparation courses and travel. Many hospitals in Hesse cover the costs – ask your employer!

1. Wait for the Defizitbescheid (deficit notice) from the HLfGP – it states that you are allowed to take the Kenntnisprüfung
2. Contact an exam school or exam centre and ask for a date (waiting times of several months are common – register early!)
3. Submit the registration documents: Defizitbescheid, proof of identity, B2 language certificate if required
4. Pay the exam fee and wait for the invitation
5. Before the exam, find out which care area (e.g. acute care, long-term care) will be tested

Exams take place at recognised nursing schools and hospitals, including in Frankfurt am Main, Darmstadt, Wiesbaden, Gießen and Kassel. The choice is largest in the Rhein-Main area.

In recent years Hesse has concentrated responsibility in the HLfGP (previously the Regierungspräsidien and the state examination office, among others) – still, check the current address on the HLfGP website before submitting. Tip: Status enquiries by e-mail that include your file number (Aktenzeichen) are usually answered faster than phone calls.