In principle, there is freedom of trade in the Federal Republic of Germany. Nevertheless, there are exceptions to this rule.

For some trades, special licensing requirements (specialized knowledge examinations, instruction, concessions, approvals or special permits) are necessary.

In particular, the following commercial activities are subject to licensing:

• Operation of pubs and restaurants
• Operation of cab companies
• Accounting assistants
• Financial service providers
• Road haulage companies
• Trade in over-the-counter medicines
• Trade in weapons, ammunition and explosives
• Craft
• Manufacture of weapons and pharmaceuticals
• Collection agencies
• Ambulance services
• Brokers
• Nursing services
• Private hospitals
• Activities in the guarding trade
• Insurance intermediaries

For these trades, you must be able to prove your personal reliability, your professional suitability and, if applicable, your financial capacity or certain spatial conditions.