The absence until now of any standardised system to describe and accredit learning achievements in vocational education and training has meant that trainees making the move from school-based vocational training to in-company VET or switching from one training occupation to another have often encountered difficulties in acquiring recognition for existing learning outcomes. The aim of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF, Germany) pilot initiative for the development of a credit system for vocational education and training is to put this deficiency right. Improvements in permeability and in the accreditation of competences have the potential to increase the attractiveness of vocational learning pathways and will especially assist in the avoidance of waiting loops, redundant qualifications and educational “dead ends".