(authorization to teach) Lat. venia legendi = authorisation to read, seldom also: Lat. venia docendi = authorisation to teach.

Authorisation to independently hold lectures (Vorlesung) in a certain subject, obtained by successful completion of a post-doctoral lecturing qualification (Habilitation). Generally, this right is accompanied with the right to carry the title "Privatdozent/in". 

• venia legendi vs. facultas docendi: The Habilitation is there to formally assert the aptitude to research independently and teach in a discipline whereby with the Habilitation the ability to teach (facultas docendi) is given. Hereby included - directly or with a different ceremony - is the venia legendi. The difference between facultas docendi and venia legendi is that the aforementioned is only to tell about the ability, the latter about the actual authorisation to hold lectures (through the university).