Tips for Driving In Germany

Overview
In Germany motorists drive on the right side of the road.

Essential safety equipment:
• Warning triangle
• First aid kit
• Headlamp converters

Recommended safety equipment:

• Fire extinguisher
• Spare bulbs
• Reflective vest
• Torch

Minimum driving age
The minimum driving age using is 18.

Seatbelt requirements
Passengers must wear front and rear seatbelts where fitted.

Children passengers
Children under 12 or 1.5 metres tall can not travel unless using a suitable child safety restraint.

Drink driving limits
Limits are 50mg/100ml.

Speed limits
• Urban: 50 kph (31 mph)
• Open road: 100 kph (62 mph)
• Motorway: 130 kph (81 mph)

Radar regulation is frequent and heavy on-the-spot fines can be imposed.

Lights
Dipped headlights must be used in poor daytime visibility. Motorcycles must use dipped headlights during the day at all times.

Fuel
All grades of unleaded petrol, diesel and LPG are available although leaded petrol is not available. It is permitted to carry petrol in a can.

Parking
Parking is not allowed up to 5m in front of/behind a crossing, 10m in front of traffic lights, or 15m in front of/behind stop signs and exits. You are only allowed to park on the right side of the road except on one-way streets where both sides are permitted.

Fines
On-the-spot fines are issued. Ensure an official receipt is issued by the officer collecting the fine.

Mobile phones
It is illegal to use a phone whilst driving. A hand-held phone can be used in a stationary or parked vehicle.

Emergency numbers
Dial 112 anywhere in the EU to reach the emergency services.

Other useful information
Buses leaving stops have priority.

Priority has to be given to pedestrians.

You are permitted to overtake trams on either side on one-way streets; but if you encounter a tram on a two-way street, it must be overtaken on the right. You must avoid overtaking trams when their occupants are either climbing aboard or alighting.