The invention pertains to a driving device, for a light-emitting component, which can be universally used and is user-friendly. The driving device for a light-emitting component, particularly for a laser, includes an interface device for inputting a control signal selecting an operating mode of the component. It further includes a control device connected to the interface device, which drives the component with a predetermined operating-mode and temperature-dependent bias current and/or a predetermined operating-mode and temperature-dependent modulation current depending on the operating mode selected and depending on the temperature present at the component or on a temperature proportional thereto.