The Heilpraktiker, the non-medical practitioner, is the exception in German health care. The law that governs the profession dates from 17 February 1939. It sets no regulated training and no regulated exam. Formally, the law asks only for basic schooling, a minimum age of 25 and personal reliability. Before anyone may practice, however, the local health office checks the applicant’s knowledge and abilities. Permission is refused if the practice would be a danger to public health.