- Time Period: Nazi Germany (World War II)
- Institution: 23 October 1942
- Country: Germany
The Driver Proficiency Badge (Kraftfahrbewährungsabzeichen in German) was a German honor bestowed upon qualified drivers of military transport serving in the Wehrmacht and the Waffen-SS of Nazi Germany World War II.
Established on October 23, 1942, the Driver Proficiency Badge aimed to recognize the skill and dedication of military transport vehicle drivers, encompassing trucks, cars, and motorcycles, who served specific durations in war zones subsequent to December 1, 1940. Eligibility extended to both military personnel and civilian drivers operating under Wehrmacht command, as well as foreign volunteers, excluding members of forces allied with Germany.
Qualification for the badge necessitated service from December 1, 1940, onwards in frontline or rear areas across the Balkan, North African, and Eastern Fronts, with additional areas incorporated as the conflict unfolded. The duration of service requisite for each type of vehicle varied: 90 days for motorbike reconnaissance and dispatch riders, 120 days for supply vehicles supporting the frontline, and 135 days for other categories of military transport.
The silver badge was conferred upon meeting these requirements for a second time, with the gold awarded for a third instance. In instances where drivers encountered exceptionally challenging conditions or achieved notable driving feats, shorter qualifying periods could be considered. Authorization for awards rested with battalion commanders and higher ranks, or for civilians, with the Ministry of the Interior.
However, the badge could be revoked if the recipient demonstrated reckless driving or failed to maintain their vehicle. Notably, it could not be bestowed posthumously.
The Driver Proficiency Design
The badge comprised a laurel wreath, measuring 44 mm in height and 41 mm in width, encasing a representation of a steering wheel. Crafted from iron or zinc alloy, it possessed an appropriate color finish. Mounted on a fabric base, it was affixed to the uniform jacket above the left cuff.
Bundeswehr members who had earned the badge during the war were permitted to wear it on the ribbon bar, represented by a small replica on a field grey ribbon.
Following the prohibition of wearing Nazi-era decorations in 1945, and unlike many awards, the original design of the Driver Proficiency Badge remained unaltered, as it did not incorporate the swastika symbol.
More Army/Waffen-SS War Badges
The Army/Waffen-SS war badges were military decorations awarded by Nazi Germany to members of the Army (Heer) and the Waffen-SS. Explore the complete collection below:
