Health counselling (section 10 of the Prostitute Protection Act (ProstSchG))

Yes, it is mandatory if you want to work as a prostitute. 

Make an appointment by phone or e-mail with your public health office. You can also request that someone be there to translate for you, you don't have to pay for this. 
You must attend the appointment in person. You will be briefed by a staff member of the public health office on various health issues such as sexually transmitted diseases, hygiene, pregnancy and contraception or alcohol and drug consumption. You are also welcome to ask questions yourself if you like. If you feel uncomfortable or if there is anything you don't understand, please feel free to say so.  

The counselling session is not a medical appointment, which means you will not be examined. Neither will you receive any medical certificates or medication there. 

At the end of the session you will receive a health counselling certificate. It contains the following information:

• First name and surname or only alias name, if so requested
• Date of birth
• Name of the issuing authority
• Date of counselling

After the health counselling session, you can apply for a registration certificate.

In North Rhine-Westphalia health counselling is free of charge.