Driving Guide for Germany
Germany’s Autobahn motorway system is a dream for driving enthusiasts. With well maintained and uncomplicated roads as well as efficient and co-operative drivers make driving in Germany a pleasure. As with any country there are simple rules and laws to follow for your safety so read on to find out more…..
The minimum age to drive in Germany is 18 and don’t forget to take your driving licence to prove it. Cars drive on the right and pass on the left and seatbelts must be worn by all passengers. Children under the age of 12 or shorter than 1.5m are not permitted to ride in the front unless they use an approved safety seat or harness but if there an active airbag in the front then safety seats are not permitted. Doors must be kept unlocked while driving to help a rescue in case of an accident, if you are hiring a car then let the rental company check this out. Many cars these days have settings where the doors automatically lock when mobile which must be switched off. Vehicles must carry a warning triangle and first aid kit.
On the spot fines are issued by the Police in Germany and if you are caught short of cash they can impound your car. If you are fined because your hire car is not supplied with the neccessary safety equipment do not worry. Pay the fine and the Police will issue a receipt and your car hire company will reimburse you. Car rental companies always try to ensure that all the relevant equipment is supplied but at busy times of the year this may not be possible.
Speed cameras are rife in Germany so be aware. If your car is supplied with a sat nav or you bring one with you then most of them come with speed camera warnings and this option must be disabled. If you are driving a rental car and are caught by a camera then the ticket will be sent to your car rental company who will notify the Police and the fine will be forwarded to you. Non EU residents regularly have their cases dropped but this isn’t to be relied upon.
Speed limits for cars and motorcycles are as follows:
Within urban areas -Â 50kph or 31mph
Outside urban areas – 100kph or 62mph
Autobahns and expressways – 130kph or 81mph. This is a recommended speed limit but there is no general speed limit for cars or motorcycles.
The penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol in Germany are harsh. Heavy penalties are given and can include a suspension of your licence. Penalties are enforced with anyone demonstrating a blood alcohol limit as low as 0.03. Considering the high alcohol content found in most German beers it is recommended that you do not drive if you have drunk any alcohol.
Further information:
The use of mobile phones whilst driving is not permitted. Mobile phones may be used only if parked with the engine turned off or if it is hands free.
If involved in an accident then you must stop immediately, this also applies to any people in a vehicle not involved in the accident but could act as a witness. If anyone is injured then the Police and Ambulance service can be contacted from a telephone or mobile by dialling 112 or on Autobahns the nearest emergency telephone may be used. It is the law that first aid is given to any of the injured persons, your First Aid Kit will come in handy.
If involved in the accident you must exchange information with the other driver/s such as your licence, passport, insurance details and if applicable your rental information. As a tourist it would be suggested that you contact the Police so they can take a report which will help protect you from any future problems.
Finally, we would recommend that a GPS or Sat Nav would help you navigate around Germany and let you concentrate on driving safely without the added worry of navigating as well. If you don’t have a Sat Nav then you can hire a Sat nav for Germany from this website. Our prices are approximately 50% cheaper than hiring one from a car rental company and a lot cheaper than buying mapping that you might not need to use again.
Tags: driving guide Germany, driving tips in Germany, sat nav hire Germany