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Key Facts: Befähigungsprüfung Fußpflege Exam

€0

Fee for 1st & 2nd Attempt at Modules 1–3 and Unternehmerprüfung (Federally Funded Since 2024)

WKO Meisterprüfungsstellen Gebührenordnung

Level 6

NQR / EQF Qualification Level for Austrian Trade Competence (Befähigungsprüfung)

Nationaler Qualifikationsrahmen (NQR) Österreich

5 Modules

Examination Structure (Practical, Oral, Written Theory & Calculation, Trainer, Business)

WKO Befähigungsprüfungsordnung Fußpflege

BGBl. II 262/2008

Austrian Statutory Hygiene Regulation for Foot Care, Cosmetology & Massage

Bundesgesetzblatt für die Republik Österreich

§ 94 Z 23

Regulated Trade Classification of Fußpflege in the Austrian Trade Code (GewO 1994)

Gewerbeordnung 1994 (GewO 1994)

134°C / 2.1 bar

Standard Steam Autoclave Parameters for Class B Sterilization of Invasive Instruments

ÖGHMP & EN 13060 Standard

10g Monofilament

Diagnostic Threshold Force for Assessing Loss of Protective Sensation in Diabetic Feet

Österreichische Diabetes Gesellschaft (ÖDG)

ÖNORM S 2104

Austrian Standard for Waste Management in Healthcare and Personal Care Facilities

Austrian Standards International

The Austrian Befähigungsprüfung Fußpflege is the NQR Level 6 trade competence credential administered by WKO Meisterprüfungsstellen across 5 modules covering foot anatomy, nail braces, diabetic foot care, hygiene, and trade law.

Sample Befähigungsprüfung Fußpflege Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your Befähigungsprüfung Fußpflege exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1Which of the following tarsal bones transmits the entire body weight from the tibia down onto the calcaneus and the longitudinal arch of the foot?

A.Talus (Sprungbein)

B.Os naviculare (Kahnbein)

C.Os cuboideum (Würfelbein)

D.Os cuneiforme mediale (Inneres Keilbein)

Explanation: The talus (Sprungbein) forms the lower part of the upper ankle joint (articulatio talocruralis) with the tibia and fibula. It receives the entire compressive body weight and distributes it posteriorly to the calcaneus and anteriorly across the navicular bone into the medial longitudinal arch.

2How many tarsal bones (Ossa tarsi) are present in the adult human foot?

A.7 bones

B.5 bones

C.8 bones

D.14 bones

Explanation: The human tarsus consists of exactly 7 bones: talus, calcaneus, os naviculare, os cuboideum, and three ossa cuneiformia (mediale, intermedium, and laterale).

3Which anatomical structure provides the primary passive ligamentous support for the medial longitudinal arch of the human foot by supporting the head of the talus?

A.Plantar calcaneonavicular ligament (Spring ligament / Pfannenband)

B.Long plantar ligament (Ligamentum plantare longum)

C.Anterior talofibular ligament (Ligamentum talofibulare anterius)

D.Bifurcate ligament (Ligamentum bifurcatum)

Explanation: The plantar calcaneonavicular ligament (spring ligament or Pfannenband) connects the sustentaculum tali of the calcaneus to the inferior surface of the navicular bone. It cradles the head of the talus, preventing plantar descent of the talar head during weight-bearing.

4Which muscle tendon passes through the retromalleolar groove behind the medial malleolus and inserts into the tuberosity of the navicular bone, serving as a dynamic stabilizer of the medial arch?

A.Musculus tibialis posterior

B.Musculus fibularis (peroneus) longus

C.Musculus extensor hallucis longus

D.Musculus gastrocnemius

Explanation: The tibialis posterior muscle tendon courses behind the medial malleolus (in the tarsal tunnel) and inserts primarily into the navicular tuberosity with extensions to cuneiforms and metatarsals. It dynamically supinates the foot and suspends the medial longitudinal arch.

5Where is the pulse of the Dorsalis Pedis Artery (Arteria dorsalis pedis) palpated during a podological vascular assessment?

A.On the dorsum of the foot, lateral to the tendon of the extensor hallucis longus

B.Directly behind and below the lateral malleolus

C.In the popliteal fossa behind the knee joint

D.Between the 4th and 5th metatarsal heads on the plantar surface

Explanation: The dorsalis pedis artery runs along the dorsum of the foot from the anterior ankle joint between the first and second metatarsal bases, immediately lateral to the prominent tendon of the extensor hallucis longus.

6A client experiences numbness in the web space between the first and second toes. Which peripheral nerve branch provides sensory innervation to this specific area?

A.Deep fibular (peroneal) nerve (Nervus fibularis profundus)

B.Superficial fibular nerve (Nervus fibularis superficialis)

C.Sural nerve (Nervus suralis)

D.Medial plantar nerve (Nervus plantaris medialis)

Explanation: The deep fibular (peroneal) nerve supplies motor innervation to the anterior compartment muscles and terminates as a cutaneous sensory branch supplying exclusively the first dorsal interdigital cleft between the hallux and second toe.

7What is the specialized germinative epithelial zone responsible for producing the hard keratin nail plate called?

A.Matrix unguis (Nail matrix)

B.Hyponychium (Subungual bed)

C.Eponychium (Perionychium)

D.Lunula

Explanation: The matrix unguis consists of dividing onychocytes that keratinize and push forward to form the nail plate. Damage to the matrix leads to permanent nail dystrophy or cessation of growth.

8What is the average physiological growth rate of healthy adult toenails under normal conditions?

A.Approximately 1.0 to 1.5 mm per month

B.Approximately 3.0 to 3.5 mm per month

C.Approximately 0.1 mm per month

D.Approximately 7.0 to 8.0 mm per month

Explanation: Toenails grow at approximately one-third to one-half the rate of fingernails, averaging 1.0 to 1.5 mm per month (requiring 12 to 18 months to fully replace a great toenail from matrix to distal margin).

9During the stance phase of normal gait, which triplanar movement combination characterizes normal physiological pronation of the subtalar joint?

A.Eversion, abduction, and dorsiflexion

B.Inversion, adduction, and plantarflexion

C.Inversion, abduction, and dorsiflexion

D.Eversion, adduction, and plantarflexion

Explanation: Pronation of the foot is a composite triplanar motion consisting of calcaneal eversion (frontal plane), forefoot abduction (transverse plane), and ankle/midfoot dorsiflexion (sagittal plane). Supination is the opposite triplanar motion.

10Which structural deformity is defined by lateral deviation of the hallux at the first metatarsophalangeal joint combined with medial prominence of the first metatarsal head?

A.Hallux valgus

B.Hallux rigidus

C.Digitus quintus varus (Tailor's bunion)

D.Pes equinovarus

Explanation: Hallux valgus involves lateral deviation of the great toe, subluxation of the first MTP joint, medial protrusion of the metatarsal head (bunion/pseudoexostosis), and often lateral displacement of the sesamoid bones.

About the Befähigungsprüfung Fußpflege Exam

The Befähigungsprüfung Fußpflege is the competence examination that opens the regulated foot care trade (reglementiertes Gewerbe gemäß § 94 Z 23 GewO 1994) in Austria. It is set by the Bundesinnung der Fußpfleger, Kosmetiker und Masseure, administered by the Meisterprüfungsstellen of the Austrian Economic Chambers, has run under a new Prüfungsordnung since 1 September 2023, and was assigned to Level 6 of the National Qualifications Framework on 13 September 2023 — the same level as a bachelor's degree. Since 22 August 2024 holders of a Befähigungsprüfung in the designated handwerksähnliche trades, foot care among them, may also carry a Meister designation before their name and have it entered in official documents. The examination assesses foot anatomy and biomechanics, nail and skin pathology, high-risk clients (above all the diabetic foot and peripheral arterial disease), orthonyxie braces, custom silicone orthoses, nail prosthetics, and the hygiene rules of BGBl. II Nr. 262/2008. This practice bank is an English-language multiple-choice study adaptation of a German-language, largely practical examination: it is not an official translation, it does not simulate the exam format, and it cannot replace supervised practice of the treatments assessed in Modul 1.

Assessment

Five modules under the Fußpflege-Befähigungsprüfungsordnung (in force 1 September 2023), assigned to NQR level 6 on 13 September 2023. Modul 1 Praktische Prüfung: Teil A 'Prüfarbeit auf Niveau der Lehrabschlussprüfung' (foot assessment, simple foot care, foot massage), Teil B 'Spezielle podologische Fußpflege' — professional foot care, treatment of mycotic nails, unguis incarnatus and other nail deformities, an individual orthosis, nail prosthetics, manicure, nail polish and design, plus workplace preparation and instrument reprocessing under the Ausübungsregeln. Teil B expressly requires both a glued brace and a metal brace hooked into both nail edges, with the hook formed and fitted by the candidate. Modul 2 Mündliche Prüfung: Teil A a technical discussion at apprenticeship-final level, Teil B 'Sicherheits- und Qualitätsmanagement' plus a podological technical discussion; Modul 2 is taken before the full commission and may be held by video conference. Modul 3 Schriftliche Prüfung, which may be delivered digitally. Modul 4 Ausbilderprüfung under §§ 29a ff BAG or the Ausbilderkurs under § 29g BAG. Modul 5 Unternehmerprüfung under § 25 GewO 1994. Modules may be sat in any order and individually. A holder of the Lehrabschlussprüfung Fußpfleger/in is credited with Modul 1 Teil A and Modul 2 Teil A.

Time Limit

Modul 1: 2 h / max 3 h (Teil A) plus 6 h / max 8 h (Teil B); Modul 2: 10–15 min (Teil A) plus 15–20 min and 30–40 min (Teil B); Modul 3: 5 h / max 6 h

Passing Score

School grade scale 'Sehr gut' (1) to 'Nicht genügend' (5); every subject must achieve at least 'Genügend' (4)

Exam Fee

Free for the 1st and 2nd attempt at every module including the Unternehmerprüfung (federally funded since 1 Jan 2024, retroactive to 1 Jul 2023); Allgemeine Prüfungsordnung fees apply from the 3rd attempt (WKO Meisterprüfungsstellen / Bundesinnung der Fußpfleger, Kosmetiker und Masseure)

Befähigungsprüfung Fußpflege Exam Content Outline

25% of this practice bank

Anatomy, Physiology & Biomechanics of the Foot (Somatologie & Biomechanik)

Osteology and arthrology of the foot (talus, calcaneus, navicular, cuneiforms, cuboid, metatarsals, phalanges), longitudinal and transverse arches, intrinsic and extrinsic foot musculature, vascular supply (dorsalis pedis, posterior tibial artery), innervation, and gait cycle biomechanics.

25% of this practice bank

Dermatology, Podological Pathology & High-Risk Patients (Dermatologie & Risikopatienten)

Etiology, clinical presentation, and conservative management of onychocryptosis, onychomycosis, onychogryphosis, subungual hematoma, verrucae, corns (clavus durus, mollis, neurovascularis), hyperkeratosis, and diabetic neuro-/angiopathy.

20% of this practice bank

Specialist Podological Techniques & Treatments (Orthonyxie, Orthosen & Behandlung)

Indications, contraindications, and fabrication of wire and composite nail correction braces (Ross-Fraser, 3M/Onyfix, B/S Spange), silicone pressure relief orthoses (shore hardness, catalysts), nail prosthesis materials, and sterile scalpel techniques.

20% of this practice bank

Hygiene, Sterilization & Infection Control (Hygiene-VO BGBl. II Nr. 262/2008)

Austrian statutory infection control rules under BGBl. II Nr. 262/2008, instrument reprocessing cycle (cleaning, disinfection, functional test, sterile barrier packaging, fractionated vacuum Class B autoclaving), chemical disinfectants (VAH/ÖGHMP), and ÖNORM S 2104 waste classes.

10% of this practice bank

Statutory Trade Law & Salon Business Management (Gewerberecht & Kalkulation)

Austrian Gewerbeordnung 1994 (§ 94 Z 23), scope of practice boundaries with physicians/podiatrists, client documentation obligations, data protection (DSGVO), costing and price calculation, and salon management.

How to Pass the Befähigungsprüfung Fußpflege Exam

What You Need to Know

Passing score: School grade scale 'Sehr gut' (1) to 'Nicht genügend' (5); every subject must achieve at least 'Genügend' (4)
Assessment: Five modules under the Fußpflege-Befähigungsprüfungsordnung (in force 1 September 2023), assigned to NQR level 6 on 13 September 2023. Modul 1 Praktische Prüfung: Teil A 'Prüfarbeit auf Niveau der Lehrabschlussprüfung' (foot assessment, simple foot care, foot massage), Teil B 'Spezielle podologische Fußpflege' — professional foot care, treatment of mycotic nails, unguis incarnatus and other nail deformities, an individual orthosis, nail prosthetics, manicure, nail polish and design, plus workplace preparation and instrument reprocessing under the Ausübungsregeln. Teil B expressly requires both a glued brace and a metal brace hooked into both nail edges, with the hook formed and fitted by the candidate. Modul 2 Mündliche Prüfung: Teil A a technical discussion at apprenticeship-final level, Teil B 'Sicherheits- und Qualitätsmanagement' plus a podological technical discussion; Modul 2 is taken before the full commission and may be held by video conference. Modul 3 Schriftliche Prüfung, which may be delivered digitally. Modul 4 Ausbilderprüfung under §§ 29a ff BAG or the Ausbilderkurs under § 29g BAG. Modul 5 Unternehmerprüfung under § 25 GewO 1994. Modules may be sat in any order and individually. A holder of the Lehrabschlussprüfung Fußpfleger/in is credited with Modul 1 Teil A and Modul 2 Teil A.
Time limit: Modul 1: 2 h / max 3 h (Teil A) plus 6 h / max 8 h (Teil B); Modul 2: 10–15 min (Teil A) plus 15–20 min and 30–40 min (Teil B); Modul 3: 5 h / max 6 h
Exam fee: Free for the 1st and 2nd attempt at every module including the Unternehmerprüfung (federally funded since 1 Jan 2024, retroactive to 1 Jul 2023); Allgemeine Prüfungsordnung fees apply from the 3rd attempt

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Befähigungsprüfung Fußpflege Study Tips from Top Performers

1Memorize the bones of the tarsus and metatarsus: talus (Sprungbein), calcaneus (Fersenbein), os naviculare (Kahnbein), os cuboideum (Würfelbein), and ossa cuneiformia I–III (Keilbeine), along with their ligamentous stabilizers (ligamentum plantare longum, spring ligament).

2Master the clinical distinctions between clavus durus (hard corn on dorsal toe joints), clavus mollis (soft interdigital macerated corn), and clavus neurovascularis (vascularized, highly sensitive corn requiring careful enucleation).

3Understand the fabrication and biomechanical action of orthonyxie nail braces: distinguish lever-action braces (Ross-Fraser wire brace), spring-tension braces (B/S Spange), and composite-cured braces (Onyfix).

4Learn the sterilisation parameters the Austrian Ausübungsregeln actually prescribe: in a steam steriliser, a holding time of at least 15 minutes at 121°C or at least 3 minutes at 134°C in saturated pressurised steam, measured after heat-up and equalisation; in a hot-air steriliser, at least 180°C for at least 30 minutes. A chemical indicator runs with every cycle, an accredited microbiology body checks the device biologically once a year, and unwrapped sterile goods may be stored for a maximum of six months.

5Understand diabetic foot screening: test protective sensation using the 10g Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (at 1st, 3rd, and 5th metatarsal heads and hallux) and vibration perception with the Rydel-Seiffer 64Hz tuning fork.

6Practice business calculations for treatment pricing: calculate net hourly rate based on fixed salon overheads, variable consumable costs, target profit margin, and statutory Austrian VAT (20% USt).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Befähigungsprüfung Fußpflege in Austria?

The Befähigungsprüfung Fußpflege is the official state trade competence examination in Austria for the regulated foot care trade (reglementiertes Gewerbe) governed by § 94 Z 23 of the Gewerbeordnung 1994. Administered by the WKO Meisterprüfungsstellen, passing this qualification confers the legal right to operate an independent pedicure and podological foot care business and train apprentices. It is mapped to Level 6 of the National Qualifications Framework (NQR Level 6).

What are the 5 modules of the Austrian Fußpflege Befähigungsprüfung?

The examination comprises 5 modules: Modul 1 is the practical examination on models (including basic care, specialized podological care, nail brace fitting, and silicone orthosis fabrication); Modul 2 is the oral technical examination before the commission; Modul 3 is the written examination in theory, pathology, hygiene, and trade calculation; Modul 4 is the apprentice trainer exam (Ausbilderprüfung); and Modul 5 is the business management exam (Unternehmerprüfung).

What hygiene rules apply to foot care businesses in Austria?

Austrian foot care businesses are strictly regulated by the Verordnung über Ausübungsregeln für Fußpflege, Kosmetik und Massage (BGBl. II Nr. 262/2008). All invasive instruments (scalpels, nail cutters, rotary burrs penetrating skin layers) must undergo validated cleaning, disinfection, and Class B steam autoclaving with batch logging and annual validation. Sharps must be disposed of according to ÖNORM S 2104 in puncture-resistant containers.

How are high-risk diabetic foot patients managed under Austrian trade rules?

Foot care specialists must perform thorough anamnesis and screening (assessing pedal pulses, monofilament sensory testing, and skin temperature). In patients with advanced diabetic angiopathy, ulcerations, or active infections, foot care practitioners are legally bound to refer patients to a medical doctor or specialised diabetic foot clinic, avoiding any sharp scalpel debridement that could induce tissue necrosis.

How much does the Austrian Fußpflege Befähigungsprüfung cost?

Since 1 January 2024, with retroactive effect to 1 July 2023, the federal government covers the examination fee for the first and second attempt at any module of a Meister- or Befähigungsprüfung, including the Unternehmerprüfung, and also covers room and setup costs for those attempts; candidates pay only for the materials they bring themselves. From the third attempt onward the fee schedule under the Allgemeine Prüfungsordnung (BGBl. II Nr. 110/2004) applies, and failing to appear without an accepted withdrawal reason counts as an attempt.

How does this practice bank adapt the Austrian Fußpflege examination?

The official Austrian exam includes practical salon treatments and a German-language oral/written board examination. This practice bank is an English-language multiple-choice study adaptation designed to reinforce theoretical knowledge, anatomy, pathology, hygiene protocols under BGBl. II Nr. 262/2008, and business calculations while retaining precise German regulatory and anatomical terminology.