Destinations

Driving in Germany

Driving in Germany

A guide to driving in Germany

Are you planning a trip to Germany and need to know the driving requirements? Driving in Germany is not much different from driving in any other European country, but there are some important rules and regulations that you should be aware of. Whether you're travelling to Germany from the UK or elsewhere, it's essential to familiarise yourself with the rules of the road.

For example, you'll need to carry your valid UK driving licence at all times whilst operating any motor vehicle on public roads in Germany and motorists can be fined for things such as exceeding speed limits, using abusive language and making gestures or signs.

In this guide, we'll cover everything from what documents are needed for driving in Germany from the UK, to helpful tips on how to stay safe on German roads. So read on and get ready for an unforgettable family road trip!

German driving laws and road regulations

Here are some key requirements for driving in Germany you need to be aware of:

  • As in the UK, wearing seatbelts is a legal requirement
  • A winter tyre regulation applies, meaning summer tyres cannot be used during winter weather
  • It is compulsory for dipped headlights to be used in daytime in cases of in bad weather and it is prohibited to drive with only sidelights at night
  • Children under 12 and less than 1.5m in height can only travel in the front seats of a vehicle if they are using an approved child seat that is appropriate for their age and size
  • It is prohibited for child seats to be used in the front seats if the airbag has not been deactivated
  • Blood alcohol levels of drivers cannot exceed a volume of 0.05% (or zero tolerance for drivers who have less than two years’ experience/are under 21)

Planning on travelling further than Germany? Check out our guide to driving in Europe.

Speed limits in Germany

Germany use the metric system for road signs, so you'll see speed limits and distance markers in kilometres and metres.Unless signs state otherwise, the following speed limits apply:

  • Built up areas: 50km/h (31mph)
  • Outside built up areas: 100km/h (62mph)
  • Dual carriageways and motorways: 130km/h (80mph)
  • There is also a minimum speed limit of 60km/h (37mph) on motorways.
  • When visibility is less than 50m, the maximum speed limit is 50km/h (31 mph)

In Germany, speed limits are strictly enforced and the amount of a speeding ticket is determined by the speed at which the offence was committed, as well as the type of road it occurred on. Fines range from €10 to as much as €680.

Also, GPS navigation systems that alert you to the location of speed cameras must have this feature disabled, as it is against the law to possess or use any radar detection equipment while driving in Germany.

Essential items for driving in Germany

There are certain documents and items that drivers must possess at all times when driving in Germany:

  • Full, valid UK driving licence & proof of ID (passport)
  • Motor insurance certificate & V5 registration document
  • UK sticker, unless the registration plates have the UK identifier on them (vehicles featuring the letters GB together with the Council of Europe golden stars or a GB sticker are no longer valid for driving abroad)
  • Headlight converters
  • 3rd party car insurance or above
  • Warning triangle and reflective jackets/vests for each passenger (for use in the event of a breakdown or accident)
  • First aid kit
  • Environmental badge when driving in low emission zones
  • Motorcyclists must wear a crash helmet and use dipped headlights at all times

Remember to check with the car rental company if the necessary items are included when hiring a vehicle. It's also worth having comprehensive travel insurance and European breakdown cover policies when driving abroad.

Additional information

  • For a guide to German road signs, download our helpful PDF
  • At crossroads and junctions, traffic coming from the right has priority
  • All road users must give way to fire engines, ambulances and police vehicles which have blue flashing lights, irrespective of whether there is an audible warning signal or not
  • Traffic in a roundabout has right of way, except when signs indicate otherwise. Drivers must not indicate as they enter a roundabout; they must, however, use their indicators before leaving the roundabout
  • For tips on motorcycling in Germany, take a look at our dedicated guide

Parking in Germany

  • A vehicle is considered parked if it remains in the same place for more than 3 minutes
  • Parking is prohibited within 5m of public crossings, 10m of traffic lights and 15m of a public transport station
  • Parking is only allowed on the right, except in one way streets
  • Parking is prohibited facing oncoming traffic

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FAQ

The minimum driving age in Germany is 18 years for most vehicle categories.

When driving in Germany, requirements include having a valid driver's licence, vehicle registration documents, and proof of insurance. It is also mandatory to carry a warning triangle, a reflective vest, and use winter tires during the appropriate seasons. Additionally, it is important to follow traffic laws, including speed limits, seat belt usage, and traffic sign regulations.

When driving in Germany, there are some important things to remember:

  • Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road.
  • The speed limits are generally 50 km/h in built-up areas, 100 km/h on open roads, and 130 km/h on motorways, but these vary so consulting road signs is a must.
  • Both drivers and passengers must wear seat belts.
  • Respect pedestrian and cyclist priority.
  • Children under 12 years of age and less than 1.5m in height must use an appropriate child restraint system.
  • Use hands-free devices for mobile phones.
  • Be mindful of environmental zones where specific vehicle stickers may be required.

The legal blood alcohol limit for driving in Germany is 0.05% (0.5 grams per litre). However, for novice drivers with less than two years of experience, the limit is stricter at 0.0% (no alcohol tolerance). It is safest to avoid alcohol completely when planning to drive.

Driving licences issued by European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) member states are generally valid in Germany. Additionally, licences from some non-EU/EEA countries are recognised, but certain conditions may apply. It is recommended to check with the German driver's licensing authority or embassy of your home country to determine the validity of your specific licence.

When considering a ferry to Germany, DFDS offers several options to choose from. We have multiple routes from the UK to France, with a wealth of onboard amenities to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable. From our Calais and Dunkirk ports, you can reach the German border in as little as 4 hours’ drive, whilst our Newhaven to Dieppe ferry is a better option for visiting German destinations in the south. If you’re travelling from the north of England or Scotland, taking our Newcastle-Amsterdam route is the ideal choice, and we also offer a route from Klaipeda to Kiel for those already exploring western Europe!

The cost of the ferry to Germany with DFDS varies depending on various factors such as the departure point, the time of year, and the type of vehicle you plan to bring. To obtain accurate and up-to-date pricing information for the specific route you are interested in, we suggest checking the DFDS website or contacting our Customer Care Team. Our friendly staff will be more than happy to assist you in finding the most suitable and cost-effective option for your journey.

To drive in Germany from the UK, you won’t need to worry about an International Driving Permit or taking another driving test. Just make sure you have a full and valid UK driving licence.

You won’t need to purchase a new driving licence if you’re visiting temporarily (i.e. on holiday) and hold a full and valid UK driving licence.

Prices are subject to availability. Telephone booking fees apply. Terms and conditions apply.