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IHK and HWK in Ausbildung: Roles of the Two Vocational Chambers

June 10, 2026 3 min read By My Second World
IHK and HWK in Ausbildung: Roles of the Two Vocational Chambers
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IHK and HWK Ausbildung are two important bodies in Germany’s dual vocational training system that those interested in Ausbildung need to know. IHK and HWK Ausbildung oversee different occupational groups. This article explains their roles.

IHK và HWK Ausbildung là gì

IHK and HWK Ausbildung are two German chambers — the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (Industrie- und Handelskammer) and the Chamber of Crafts (Handwerkskammer). Both manage dual vocational training (duale Ausbildung) and issue final certificates to trainees.

IHK oversees occupations in industry, commerce, and services (such as office work, engineering, IT, banking, retail). HWK oversees craft and trade occupations (such as electrical, plumbing, mechanical, baking, hairdressing, construction).

Role in the training process

During Ausbildung, IHK and HWK are responsible for: registering training contracts, supervising training quality at companies, organizing mid-term and final exams, and issuing occupational certificates (Gesellenbrief from HWK or IHK-Prüfungszeugnis from IHK).

Both also provide advice to trainees and companies on the training process, resolve disputes if any arise, and maintain the list of companies authorized to offer Ausbildung.

Importance for Vietnamese candidates

When Vietnamese candidates look for an Ausbildung position, IHK and HWK Ausbildung are official sources of information. The regional IHK and HWK websites have databases of companies recruiting trainees, open occupations, and specific requirements.

Certificates issued by IHK or HWK are recognized nationwide and across the EU, forming the legal basis for practicing the profession after completing Ausbildung. You should check the IHK/HWK website for the region you intend to move to for specific opportunities.

You should refer to Germany’s dual vocational training system and the Make it in Germany portal to check current conditions.

Summary

IHK and HWK Ausbildung are the two chambers managing Germany’s dual vocational training. IHK covers industry/commerce/service occupations; HWK covers craft and trade occupations. Roles: registering training contracts, supervision, organizing exams, issuing certificates. The IHK/HWK websites have databases of companies recruiting trainees. Check by region of destination.

# Ausbildung

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