German experience of development and modernization of the field of adult education has been outlined in the paper. Historical development of the field and its recognition as an independent level in education have been considered. The aim of the field has been defined. It has been emphasized that the names of the field in Ukraine and Germany differ. It has been found out that Germany is a federal state with decentralized system of regulation for adult education where federation, states and municipal authorities cooperate. Based on studying literary and documentary sources the competences of states for legislation and initiatives in the field of adult education have been revealed. It has been stated that there is no legal support regulating the field of adult education in Germany. Based on the data of the conducted analysis it has become possible to find out that the state policy in the field of adult education is, first of all, is aimed at providing every citizen with the right to personality development and freedom to choose education institutions. The content of federal acts related to the field of adult education in Germany has been delivered. Theoretical generalization of main aspects of the field regulation due to states adult education / continuing education acts and educational leave acts has been performed.