Trainer Certification & Qualification

AdA Certificate !

Germany's train-the-trainer qualification (AEVO)

  • Format: Online
  • Preparation for the IHK trainer aptitude exam
AdA certificate — trainer qualification

Interested in the AdA certificate?

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Summary

AdA = “Ausbildung der Ausbilder” (Train the Trainer)

Your official proof of instructional and vocational-pedagogy aptitude in Germany

The AdA certificate is for anyone who wants to train apprentices in a company, regardless of industry or profession. It applies to business owners as well as employees who need to prove their trainer aptitude.

The goal is professional preparation for a trainer's responsibilities: planning, delivering, and completing vocational training. Pass the exam and you receive the AdA certificate — and are qualified to train.

Nationally recognized IHK credential (Germany)
Qualification to train skilled apprentices
Career opportunities in people development
Can be credited as Part IV of the German master craftsman exam

AdA course duration: teaching hours & formats

The AdA program typically comprises 60 teaching hours and runs fully online. Choose between full-time (7 intensive days), part-time (4 weeks, Friday evenings and Saturdays), or the condensed course for those with prior knowledge.

Full-time

6 days

Online intensive course for a fast finish

Part-time

4 weeks

Online, Friday evenings and Saturdays

Condensed

4 days

Online, for those with prior qualifications

Recognized throughout Germany

The qualification under the German Trainer Aptitude Regulation (AEVO) is state-recognized and valid throughout Germany. It is the only official qualification in Germany that certifies instructional and vocational-pedagogy competence.

IHK trainer certificate

After passing the exam before the IHK (Chamber of Commerce and Industry), you receive the nationally recognized trainer certificate, qualifying you to train apprentices in your field.

Exam structure

Written part (approx. 180 minutes)

Practical exam (approx. 30 minutes)

Strategy & Business Consultant

If the AdA certificate interests you, the Strategy & Business Consultant program is likely a great fit as well. It gives you three competencies in one compact package: business, communication, and teaching skills — all three essential for leaders in modern management.

Curriculum

Focus areas in this field of action:

Benefits and value of in-company training
Contributing to training planning
Training occupations and exam requirements
Company eligibility for training
Roles of the trainer and contributors

Focus areas in this field of action:

Creating a training plan
Involving cooperation partners
Assisting with apprentice selection
Preparing the training contract
Evaluating vocational training abroad

Focus areas in this field of action:

Creating conditions that support learning
Organizing the probation period
Developing workplace learning and work assignments
Applying training methods
Supporting apprentices with learning difficulties
Using additional training offerings
Fostering intercultural competence

Focus areas in this field of action:

Preparing apprentices for their exams
Handling exam registration
Issuing a training reference
Highlighting career development paths

AdA certificate cost: tuition & IHK exam fees

How much does the AdA certificate cost? One flat course price

All formats (full-time, part-time, condensed)

€595

Included in the price:

Course materials & scripts
Live classes via Microsoft Teams
Exam preparation
Support from experienced instructors

Please note: The IHK exam fees (approx. €300) are not included in the course price and are paid directly to the IHK. Registration with your responsible IHK is done individually. The AdA certificate is a German qualification: the course is taught in German and the IHK exam is held in German.

Funding

Members of the German Armed Forces can have professional training funded through the Career Transition Service (BFD).

Admission

AdA certificate requirements & admission to the trainer aptitude exam

There are no formal requirements for attending the course — everyone is welcome to join.

Admission to the IHK exam requires a completed vocational qualification and/or several years of professional experience. The exact requirements are assessed by the responsible IHK.

Ready for your trainer qualification?

Start your career as a trainer — with our AdA course preparing you for IHK recognition.