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Driving in Germany
Driving is one of the best ways to explore Germany.
The road conditions are among the best in the world and a
well-developed network of Autobahns (motoways) and major
roads allows access to almost every corner of the country.
However, it is the scenic drives away from the urban centers,
through Germany’s beautiful landscapes that provide a unique
experience. To make the most of your trip, it is best to know
the basics of driving in Germany before you get started.Insurance and
Breakdown Coverage
When renting a car, insurance is
usually included in the rate. However,
you should check the details of the
rental company’s policy. If you are
traveling in your own vehicle, make
sure that your insur ance is valid in
Germany, so that in the event of an
accident, any damage will be covered.
Most UK motoring services such as
the Automobile Association (AA) and
Royal Automobile Club (RAC), offer
insurance for assistance, breakdown,
and recovery in Germany. European
breakdown, and repatriation cover is
also available with the Allgemeiner
Deutscher Automobil Club (ADAC).limits. As a rule, the most severe fines,
including the possible revoking of a
driving license, begin at exceeding
30 kph (19 mph) over the speed
limit. Fines can also be incurred for
tailgating and parking in prohibited
areas. In both cases, your car rental
company will bill you for any ticket
that is sent to them, along with an
administration fee.
Do not drink and drive. The law
is stringent and penalties high.
The legal limit is 0.5 mg, but if you
are stopped for another traffic
offense, the limit drops to 0.3 mg.
The police can impose a fine on the
spot. It is also illegal to use a mobile
phone while driving. This also applies
if the car is standing but the engine
is running. If caught, drivers will be
fined $77 (€60). However, bluetooth
headsets are allowed.Above Driving along limestone cliffs,
Altmuhl Valley, BavariaRoad Systems
Germany is famous for the
Autobahn – a well-developed
network of toll-free highways. The
prefix “A” on a blue sign indicates the
Autobahn. Besides the highways,
there are well-maintained major
roads (Bundesstrasse), which can
be distinguished by the prefix “B” on
What to Take a yellow sign.
Driving licenses from America and
Australia are recognized in Germany.
However, citizens of non- European
countries should carry an
International Driving Permit. Several
agencies (www. drivers.com)are
authorized to issue the permit,
including the auto mobile association
of the driver’s home country. In order
to drive in Germany, EU drivers must
hold a valid driving license and carry
the registration documents and
insurance policy for the vehicle.Seat belts are compulsory in
Germany, and there must be a
warning triangle in the car, in case of
a breakdown. Also, every registered
vehicle must carry a first-aid kit that
includes disposable surgical gloves
and a thermal blanket. If you rent
a car, make sure that such a kit is
provided with the car.Speed Limits and Fines
There is no specific speed limit for
driving on the Autobahn, although
many sections of it recommend a
speed of 81 mph (130 kph). On major
roads, the speed limit is 62 mph
(100 kph), and inside a city and in
built-up areas, it is 31 mph (50 kph).
There are mobile speed cameras and
radars (quite often at cons truction
sites) and heavy fines may be
imposed if you exceed these speedRules of the Road
Driving is on the right in Germany,
and seat belts must be worn at all
times by the driver and all
passengers, front seat and back.
Knowing the general rules of the
road is important. Be aware that
passing other cars is only allowed in
the left lane. Under no circumstances
should you ever pass in the rightBACK ROADS GERMANY