Kenntnisprüfung in Rhineland-Palatinate

• 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

Assessment procedure (Feststellungsverfahren) €50–300 depending on the effort involved, permission to use the professional title currently €44, plus €417–515 for an external ZAB expert report if required (LSJV application form, version 04/2025, still current, as of 10/2026). The costs of the Kenntnisprüfung at the exam school come on top. Many hospitals in Rhineland-Palatinate cover the costs – ask your employer!

1. Wait for the Defizitbescheid (deficit notice) from the LSJV – 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 possible – 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 Mainz, Koblenz, Ludwigshafen, Trier and Kaiserslautern.

People who live in the Rhein-Neckar region often work across Land borders (RP, BW, Hesse) – the responsible authority is the one in the Land where you apply for your professional licence (Berufserlaubnis). Tip: Decide on one Land early and stick with it – that saves duplicate work.