Do I need a diploma to start this Ausbildung?

No higher diploma is required: the Ausbildung is precisely the way to learn the trade. Good German (B2) and motivation are what matter.

Is the Ausbildung paid?

Yes, from the first year (about 900 to 1,250 €/month depending on the sector and region), rising each year.

What can I do afterwards?

Work across retail, progress to department then store manager, or specialise (purchasing, e-commerce). A Handelsfachwirt qualification opens management.

Retail sales clerk (Kaufmann/-frau im Einzelhandel)

One of Germany's most recruited Ausbildungen: a broad commercial role, from sales and customer advice to merchandise management.

All sectors

The profession

The retail clerk sells and advises customers, handles the checkout, receives and presents goods, manages stock and orders, supports sales campaigns and increasingly online retail. A versatile role present across every retail sector.

Salary

During the Ausbildung, about 900 to 1,250 €/month depending on the agreement and region (up to ~1,450 € in year 3 in some sectors). On entry after training, about 2,400 to 2,700 €/month, median around 2,500 € (sources: Entgeltatlas of the Federal Employment Agency and Einzelhandel sector scales). Discounters and car retail often pay above average.

Duration and path

The training lasts 3 years, alternating between the company and the vocational school (Berufsschule), ending with the chamber of commerce (IHK) exam. Exiting after 2 years with the Verkäufer/in qualification is possible.

Employers hiring

Large chains and discounters (Edeka, Rewe, Aldi, Lidl, dm, Rossmann), specialist retail (electronics, furniture, DIY, textiles), department stores and chains, and car retail. Retail is one of the country's largest employers and training providers.

Prospects and progression

Stable employment and fast hiring. After a few years: department manager, deputy then store manager, purchasing, or specialisation (e-commerce, visual merchandising). Further qualifications (Handelsfachwirt) open management roles.

German level required

Constant customer contact requires good German: B2 is the standard for a commercial Ausbildung. Karriere Fähre trains you from beginner level up to B2 in Douala, before departure.

Access and visa

You need an Ausbildung contract with a company, the required German level and a training visa (§ 16a of the German Residence Act). We prepare you, match you with a training employer and handle the paperwork with you.

Apply

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a diploma to start this Ausbildung?: No higher diploma is required: the Ausbildung is precisely the way to learn the trade. Good German (B2) and motivation are what matter.
Is the Ausbildung paid?: Yes, from the first year (about 900 to 1,250 €/month depending on the sector and region), rising each year.
What can I do afterwards?: Work across retail, progress to department then store manager, or specialise (purchasing, e-commerce). A Handelsfachwirt qualification opens management.

Indicative gross ranges from public German sources (Federal Employment Agency, Entgeltatlas, Gehalt.de, IHK). In retail, pay follows sector collective agreements (Einzelhandel) and the statutory minimum wage, and varies by region, employer and experience. Commerce is a non-regulated field: formal recognition is not always required to work, but may be needed depending on the visa route. Recognition and visa rules change: always check your case with the competent German authorities.