English
Plastics Processing (Kunststoffverarbeitung)
GewO §94 Z.40
Verified: April 2026
Key Facts
- Type: Regulated trade (Handwerk)
- Qualification: Master exam (Meisterpruefung)
- Registration cost: Free (€0)
- Scope: All plastics manufacturing and processing
- Note: Includes industrial 3D printing services
What This Trade Covers
- Injection molding and extrusion
- Industrial 3D printing (FDM, SLA, SLS)
- Thermoforming and vacuum forming
- CNC machining of plastic components
- Welding and bonding of plastics
- Custom plastic part manufacturing
3D Printing: When Is a License Needed?
Hobby and prototype 3D printing does not require a trade license. However,
commercially manufacturing plastic parts for clients (production runs,
functional parts, industrial components) falls under this regulated trade.
Environmental Obligations
Plastics processing businesses typically require a business premises approval (Betriebsanlagengenehmigung) due to emissions, waste handling, and chemical use. EU REACH regulations apply to many raw materials.
Related Guides
Legally binding: German text of GewO 1994.