The Federal Ministry of Justice presented a draft law aimed at making the professional field of notaries more attractive. The proposal seeks to simplify entry into the profession and make it more family‑friendly, while also allowing qualified lawyers to serve beyond the current retirement age of 70 under specific conditions. The goal is to secure comprehensive notarial coverage nationwide despite a decline in applicant numbers.
Key points of the draft include:
” “Easier entry for lawyers” – Qualified attorneys who have passed the second state exam can take the notarial exam immediately, eliminating the existing three‑year waiting period. A further opportunity to retake the exam is also provided.
” “Reduced experience requirement” – The mandatory legal‑practice experience is cut from three to two years. Maternity leave, parental leave, and sick‑care leave no longer interrupt the counting of this period.
” “Extension for older notaries” – With an application, notaries can continue to serve beyond 70 years old. The term can be extended twice, each time for up to three years, if positions in rural and structurally weak regions remain vacant.
The draft has been sent to the federal states and professional associations, which are invited to submit comments by 6 March 2026.