Introduction
Losing your driver’s license in Germany is more than an inconvenience — it can disrupt your career, personal freedom, and independence. In many cases, getting it back requires more than just waiting out a suspension. You may be required to complete the MPU — the infamous Medizinisch-Psychologische Untersuchung. But was ist eine MPU (what is an MPU), why is it so difficult to pass, and how can you prepare?
This article explains everything you need to know about the mpu process in Germany, especially for those affected by alkohol (alcohol), drug-related offenses, or repeated violations. If you’re facing the MPU, legal and psychological preparation is key — and this guide will give you all the insight you need to approach it with confidence.
What Exactly Is the MPU?
The mpu, or Medical-Psychological Assessment, is a government-mandated procedure used by German authorities to evaluate whether someone is fit to drive. It is ordered by the Fahrerlaubnisbehörde (driver licensing authority) when serious traffic violations are committed. But unlike a simple fine or points system, the mpu is a complex and rigorous evaluation.
The mpu is not a punishment — it is a screening tool. It assesses your mental and physical ability to drive safely again. Most importantly, it evaluates whether your past behavior (drinking, drug use, reckless driving) has truly changed.
Common Reasons for MPU Orders
You may be required to undergo the mpu in Germany for several reasons:
1. Alkohol am Steuer (Drinking and Driving)
If you are caught driving with a blood alcohol content over 1.6‰, the mpu is automatically triggered. Even gelegentlicher (occasional) drinkers can be ordered to take the mpu if multiple offenses occur.
2. Drug-Related Offenses
Even a single incident of driving under the influence of cannabis or other drugs can result in an mpu drogen (drug MPU). The authorities view drug use as a long-term risk factor, especially if abstinence can’t be proven.
3. Aggressive or Reckless Driving
Racing, speeding in dangerous zones, or frequent traffic violations also qualify as grounds for a mpu. These behaviors suggest a pattern of poor decision-making behind the wheel.
4. Accumulated Points (Flensburg Point System)
Too many points in the Verkehrszentral register (traffic offender register) may trigger a license review, especially if the driver fails to take corrective measures like training programs.
What Does the MPU Actually Involve?
The mpu consists of three main parts:
1. Medical Examination
This includes a general physical check-up and possibly urine, blood, or hair testing to detect alkohol or drug use. Abstinence must be proven in some cases over 6 to 12 months.
2. Psychological Interview
This is the most critical part. A psychologist will ask you detailed questions about your past offenses, your behavior, and your motivation to change. The goal is to assess whether your thinking patterns have changed — and whether you truly understand the risk you posed to others.
3. Performance Tests
These are computer-based tests that assess your reaction time, concentration, and stress tolerance. Failing here can indicate that you’re still a risk on the road, even if you’ve abstained from substances.
Why So Many People Fail the MPU
According to official statistics, around 40–50% of first-time MPU candidates fail. Here’s why:
Inadequate preparation for the psychological interview
Lack of consistent abstinence documentation
Failure to understand what the examiner is looking for
Underestimating the emotional and mental readiness required
It’s not enough to just “be clean.” You have to show true behavioral change and take full responsibility for your past actions.
How a Lawyer Can Help
Working with a mpu anwalt (MPU attorney) or verkehrsrecht anwalt (traffic law lawyer) can significantly increase your chances of passing the mpu. Here’s how:
Legal Strategy
A lawyer can examine whether your mpu was lawfully ordered. If the police made procedural mistakes or your test results are flawed, you may be able to avoid the MPU altogether under ordnungsrecht.
Abstinence Documentation
For alkohol or drug-related cases, documentation is everything. A lawyer will ensure you follow the correct protocol: using accredited labs, maintaining records, and organizing long-term testing if needed.
Psychological Coaching
Some lawyers work with MPU preparation centers to offer mock interviews and coaching. This helps you learn how to answer the psychologist’s questions honestly — and in a way that clearly shows personal change.
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare for the MPU
Preparing for the mpu is not just about avoiding substances or staying out of trouble — it’s about actively proving that you’ve changed your behavior and mindset. Here’s a proven roadmap to follow.
Step 1: Understand Why You Were Ordered to Take the MPU
Before anything else, understand the official reason. Is it alkohol, drugs, or repeated violations? Your preparation depends heavily on the issue at hand.
Ask your verkehrsrecht anwalt (traffic law attorney) to review the letter from the Fahrerlaubnisbehörde (licensing office). They’ll identify the exact legal grounds and ensure the process was initiated lawfully under ordnungsrecht (regulatory law).
Step 2: Abstinence Proof (When Required)
If your MPU was triggered due to alkohol or drugs, you’ll likely be required to show consistent abstinence over a set period. This is non-negotiable.
For alkohol: Usually 6 months for minor offenses, 12 months for serious or repeat ones
For mpu drogen (drug MPUs): Often 12+ months depending on the substance and usage frequency
Your lawyer can help ensure your testing is legally valid, including:
Choosing an accredited lab
Following a monitored sample schedule
Organizing hair or blood tests when needed
Step 3: Start Psychological Preparation Early
This is where most people fail the mpu. It’s not a test of memory or intelligence — it’s a test of self-awareness and personal growth.
A trained mpu anwalt will recommend MPU preparation courses that simulate the psychological interview. They’ll help you:
Understand what psychologists look for (behavioral change, self-responsibility)
Recount your offense truthfully and consistently
Avoid blaming others or showing denial
Present a realistic plan for future safe driving
Think of it like therapy — if you’re not ready to talk openly, your results will reflect that.
What Happens If You Fail? (MPU nicht bestanden)
Many people fail the mpu on their first try. If this happens to you, don’t panic — but don’t delay, either.
Consequences of Failing:
Your license remains revoked
You must wait several months (or longer) to retake it
You’ll need to undergo additional psychological preparation
You risk reinforcing a “pattern” of failure in your MPU history
Legal Steps After Failure:
Your mpu anwalt can:
Request a copy of the psychological report
Help interpret the examiner’s feedback
Identify legal procedural errors (if any)
File appeals where possible
Note: The phrase “mpu nicht bestanden” (MPU not passed) on your record doesn’t permanently disqualify you — but it does require more serious preparation and, sometimes, a longer abstinence period.
Timeline: How Long Does the MPU Process Take?
From the moment your license is suspended, here’s what the typical timeline looks like:
| Step | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| License Suspension | Immediate |
| MPU Ordered | 2–4 weeks later |
| Abstinence Documentation | 6–12 months |
| MPU Test Date | Depends on provider (1–3 months wait) |
| Results Returned | 1–4 weeks |
| License Restoration (if passed) | 2–6 weeks |
Total Time:
Anywhere from 6 months to 18 months, depending on your situation.
This is why early preparation with a mpu anwalt is essential — they help you avoid delays, rejections, and bureaucratic surprises.
How Much Does an MPU Cost?
The total cost of the mpu can vary depending on the reason and your preparation level.
| Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| MPU Psychological Test | €350 – €750 |
| Abstinence Testing | €300 – €1200 (depending on method & duration) |
| MPU Preparation Courses | €300 – €1000 |
| Verkehrsrecht Anwalt Fees | €800 – €2000 (depending on case complexity) |
Total:
€1,500 to €3,500+
It’s a big investment — but the cost of failure (lost job, more testing, no license) is much higher in the long run.
How to Choose the Right MPU Lawyer (MPU Anwalt)
Not every lawyer is experienced in verkehrsrecht or mpu defense. Look for the following:
Specialization in Fahrerlaubnisrecht (driver’s license law)
Proven success with alkohol and mpu drogen cases
Familiarity with ordnungsrecht procedures
Partnerships with certified MPU prep institutions
Ask your anwalt if they can help with both the legal appeal AND psychological coaching. A well-rounded mpu anwalt does both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was ist eine MPU really testing?
It tests your fitness to drive, focusing on mental stability, behavioral change, and reaction performance. It’s not about punishing you — it’s about preventing repeat offenses.
What if I drank gelegentlicher (occasionally)?
Even occasional alcohol use can result in a mpu if you were caught behind the wheel. Authorities don’t judge based on your habits — they judge based on the danger your actions posed.
Can I avoid the MPU altogether?
Sometimes. A verkehrsrecht anwalt may challenge the legality of the order or find procedural faults. But most cases do require completing the full mpu process.
Can I get my license back faster?
Yes — if you start early, follow all abstinence/testing procedures, and work with professionals.
Final Thoughts: Take Your MPU Seriously — and Don’t Face It Alone
The mpu isn’t something you can “wing.” It’s one of the most demanding administrative procedures in Germany. Whether your offense involved alkohol, drugs, or dangerous driving, getting your license back takes proof, patience, and preparation.
By understanding was ist eine mpu, following a step-by-step plan, and working with an experienced mpu anwalt or verkehrsrecht anwalt, you can dramatically improve your chances of success.
Don’t let confusion or fear delay your progress. Take action today, start preparing, and reclaim your driving freedom.
Need Help With the MPU?
Contact a certified mpu anwalt today to begin your personalized preparation strategy. The sooner you start, the sooner you drive again.
