When travelling in Germany check what items of motoring equipment are required.
Essential Items
- Headlamp Beam Adaptors
- GB Plate
- Spare Bulbs
- Warning Triangle
Strongly Advisable Items
- First Aid Kit
- Fire Extinguisher
- Reflective Vest
Other Information
Speed Limit - km/hr (mph)
Motorways (recommended) Motorways (min speed) Major roads outside towns Built-up areas
130 (81) 60 (37) 100 (62)
50 (31)
With trailer : 80 (50) - compulsory!
60 (37)
80 (50)
50 (31)
- Visibility < 50 metres, maximum speed 50 km/hr (31 mph)
Seat Belts
- Compulsory in front seats and rear seats if fitted.
- Under 12 years and under 150cm in rear unless using approved child seat.
Motorways
- Motorways (autobahns) are toll-free.
- Service areas are frequent.
- Junctions are often complex - take care when entering and leaving.
- Lane discipline has to be good, speeds can be very high on the unrestricted sections.
- It is an offence to run out of fuel.
Drinking and Driving
The level of alcohol in the blood must be below 0.5 g/l.
Minimum Tyre Depth
1.8mm.
Fines
- Police are authorised to impose and collect fines on the spot. They must issue a receipt for the amount paid.
- Offences can include : Speeding, Parking, Abusive Language, and Making Derogatory Signs.
Parking
- A parking disc system operates in major towns, discs available from police, tourist offices and tobacconists.
- Parking meters can also be found in certain areas.
Emergency Phone Numbers
- Police 110
- Fire Service 112
- Ambulance 110 (115 in former East Germany)
Additional Notes
- Driving licence and vehicle documents should be carried at all times.
- Speed cameras are common.
- Buses have right of way when leaving bus stops.
- Use dipped headlights in poor visibility.
- Do not pass school buses that have red lights flashing.
- In built-up areas, use of horn only for emergencies.
