First Aid Courses and Emergency Phrases in Germany

Germany takes first aid seriously. Many people need an Erste-Hilfe certificate for a driving license or for work (especially childcare, security, and some office roles).

In a medical emergency, knowing what to say in German or English helps dispatchers send the right help faster. Hospitals must treat life-threatening emergencies even if you are uninsured, though you may receive a bill later.

For emergency numbers and when to call them, see Emergency Services in Germany. For the first-aid requirement when converting a license, see Driving License in Germany.

First aid courses (Erste-Hilfe-Kurs)

Standard course. Usually 9 teaching units (Unterrichtseinheiten), often completed in one day (about seven to nine hours including breaks).

Certificate use.

• German driving license applications (required for many new applicants)
• Some employers and volunteer roles
• General personal preparedness

Main providers (non-profit, certified nationwide).

• DRK (German Red Cross)
• Malteser
• Johanniter
• ASB (Workers’ Samaritan Federation)

How to book.

1. Choose a provider and open their course finder (Kurstermine).
2. Pick a date near you (popular dates fill up; book several days ahead).
3. Bring ID and payment (fees vary; check the provider site).
4. Attend the full course without leaving early.
5. Receive your certificate the same day or by mail.

Some cities offer courses in English. Check the provider website or call the local branch before booking.

Emergency phrases when calling 112

Call 112 for fire, ambulance, and life-threatening medical emergencies. Stay calm and speak slowly.

Opening lines.

• “Hier ist [Name]. Ich brauche einen Krankenwagen.” — This is [name]. I need an ambulance.
• “Es gibt einen Notfall.” — There is an emergency.
• “Ich spreche Englisch.” — I speak English. (Operators often switch or find help.)

Location (always state clearly).

• “Die Adresse ist [Straße, Hausnummer, Stadt].”
• “Wir sind an der U-Bahn-Station / am Bahnhof [Name].”
• “Im [Stockwerk], Tür [Nummer].”

Medical situations.

• “Eine Person ist bewusstlos.” — Someone is unconscious.
• “Jemand atmet nicht.” — Someone is not breathing.
• “Starke Blutung.” — Severe bleeding.
• “Verdacht auf Herzinfarkt.” — Suspected heart attack.
• “Verdacht auf Schlaganfall.” — Suspected stroke.
• “Schwere allergische Reaktion.” — Severe allergic reaction.
• “Verkehrsunfall mit Verletzten.” — Traffic accident with injuries.

English is often possible in larger cities, but German keywords above help if the line is busy.

While waiting.

• Follow dispatcher instructions
• Start chest compressions if the person is not breathing (courses teach the correct rate)
• Use an AED (Defibrillator) if one is nearby

Emergency hospital care and insurance

Life-threatening emergencies. German hospitals must treat you in a true emergency regardless of insurance status. You cannot be turned away when life or serious health is at immediate risk.

After treatment. You will usually receive a bill if you are uninsured or not fully covered. Non-emergency care is different: plan insurance or use support services below.

Help if you are uninsured (non-emergency)

If you need care but have no insurance and it is not a 112 emergency:

Malteser – medicine for people without insurance. Free, often anonymous care at selected locations across Germany. See Malteser: Medical help without insurance.

Medibüro. Anonymous, free treatment support, mainly in Berlin, also for people without secure residence status. See Medibüro.

Clearingstellen. Offices that help you enter regular healthcare or find local options. Find your regional contact at Clearingstelle.

Sozialamt (social welfare office). Can advise on benefits and access to care in your municipality. Search your city name plus Sozialamt for local contact details.

Tip. Contact a Clearingstelle or Sozialamt early. Waiting until a crisis is harder and more expensive.

Next steps

1. Book an Erste-Hilfe-Kurs if you need a driving license or employer certificate.
2. Save 112, 110, and 116 117 in your phone.
3. Practice saying your address in German.
4. If uninsured, note your nearest Clearingstelle or Malteser contact before you get sick.

Useful links

• DRK
• Malteser
• Johanniter
• ASB
• Emergency Services in Germany (on this site)
• Clearingstelle directory