Training
"We don't need a written contract."
You have started but received no training contract, or it is not registered with the chamber.
§ 11 BBiG / § 36 BBiG / § 43 Abs. 1 Nr. 3 BBiG
The boss may NOT do that
Yes you do — without a written record and registration, your exam admission is at risk.
The company must set down the essential content of the training contract in writing before training begins, sign it and hand it to you (for minors also to the parents) (§ 11 BBiG). This includes occupation, start and duration, training plan, daily training time, probation, pay and leave. It must also apply without delay for registration in the register of training relationships at the IHK/HWK (§ 36 BBiG). This is crucial for you: only those whose training relationship is registered are admitted to the final exam — or those who prove that the missing registration is not their fault (§ 43 (1) no. 3 BBiG).
What the law says
§ 11 (1) BBiG – Written record
Trainers must set down the essential content in writing without delay after concluding the training contract, at the latest before training begins.
§ 36 (1) BBiG – Registration
Trainers must apply for entry in the register of training relationships without delay after concluding the contract.
§ 43 (1) no. 3 BBiG – Admission
Anyone whose training relationship is registered, or is not registered for a reason they are not responsible for, is to be admitted to the final exam.
What you can do
- Request the contract in writing — you are entitled to it before you start.
- Ask the IHK/HWK whether your training relationship is registered.
- Keep all evidence: offer letter, payslips, school registration.
- If nothing happens, inform the chamber — it can require the company to register.
Email template for your trainer
Subject: Training contract and registration with the chamber
Dear [name of trainer],
I have been training as a [occupation] since [date]. I have not yet received a written training contract.
Under § 11 BBiG the essential content of the contract must be set down in writing and handed over before training begins; under § 36 BBiG registration with the [IHK/HWK] must be applied for. Please hand over the contract and briefly confirm the registration by [date].
Kind regards
[Your name]