For once in a lifetime, the thought of driving across Central Europe must’ve crossed your mind. From Brandenburg Gate to Berlin Fernsehturm, from Zugspitze to Miniatur Wunderl, and from delightful cuisine to mind-blowing literature, Germany has it all to offer to people with different tastes.
And, if you are looking forward to having some solitude in Germany, then the Land of Poets and Thinkers is your perfect escape.
But in order to drive on the roads of Germany, you need to learn the ropes of driving-related regulations of the country. This article is your Germany Driving Guide in case you’ve been scratching your head thinking about what you should keep in mind when you’re on a road trip in Germany. Before we proceed, here’s an interesting thing about the country. Did you know that Germany attracts most of the visitors because of its cultural activities rather than football tournaments?
MINIMUM AGE CRITERIA
The very first thing that comes to mind when we think of getting our foot on the accelerator in any country is: ‘age.’ The age specifications for driving in Germany is divided into a few categories;
- For driving a restricted motorcycle having a cubic capacity of 125, the minimum age is 16 years.
- For driving a car under the supervision of a guardian, one must have attained the age of 17. Whereas, for riding a car without restrictions, it is 18.
- The last one is broadly relevant to professionals as the minimum age for driving a cargo or bus is 21 years.
However, a person of 15 can drive along the roads on a small vehicle (like mopeds) having a speed limit of 25 km per hour.
GENERAL RULES
- While you’re in Germany, always remember to drive on the right, although the driver’s seat is on the left.
- Any type of device which is used for hindering police surveillance is prohibited on the go.
- Third-party motor vehicle insurance is mandatory in Germany.
- Using earplugs/headphones is prohibited while driving.
- One must use a hands-free device while driving.
- There are no second thoughts when it comes to seatbelts. Everybody is required to wear seatbelts; otherwise, it would invite a fine. Other enactments of this law are discussed further in this article.
- You can not abandon a person if your vehicle collides with another one. Otherwise, this will be considered a hit-and-run case. You have to call the emergency number, i.e.112, and wait for at least half an hour for the help to arrive.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS
In Germany also, tri-colored light signals mode regulates the traffic. The German federal laws are applicable with strict fines and punishments on violations.
When on a roundabout road, the vehicle on the right is always given the first priority. So the movements along these roads must be made keeping this in mind.
ENACTMENTS OF LAWS RELATED TO SEATBELTS
Germany Driving Guide says it is strictly compulsory to wear seatbelts while mounting in a car. Some specific rules are in place, keeping the safety of children in mind.
Children under the age of 3 and 12 (or a kid who is shorter than 1.5m) must be seated in an infant safety seat at the back. However, in case of the non-availability of an infant safety seat, one can use a standard seat belt for a child who has crossed the age of 3 years.
PERMITTED SPEED
While the signboards state the speed limits for most of the roads in Germany, it is totally the driver’s responsibility not to lose control over the vehicle and put up with the safety norms not just for oneself but also for the security of others. However, one can drive a vehicle at a speed of 80km/h.
The Autobahn highway network is acknowledged for being the “restriction-free” highway of Germany. This is the reason why every speed lover never wants to miss out on being on the Autobahn.
Nevertheless, it is strongly advised to take care of the vehicle control and watch out whenever you’re driving on this highway because any speedy vehicle can come your way even without you noticing it. As a matter of fact, you surely want to visit this place again and again, right? This Germany Driving Guide you’re reading admires the principle of ‘safety comes first.’
PARKING ETIQUETTES
When you’re in Germany, remember to follow the understated parking rules:
- A blue-colored box with capital “P” on it indicates the area that can be used for parking.
- Parking lights must be left ‘ON’ at night. This is done to reduce the chances of accidents in case a lamp post or street light is not lit.
- Some areas of Europe might follow a ‘disc parking’ system which means you’re bound to pay for parking if your vehicle has been there for more than the allotted time frame. That’s why the driver must carry a timing disc when on a ride.
DRINK & DRIVE
Quite obviously, as in other countries, driving under the influence of alcohol is a punishable offense in Germany as well. The percentage volume of alcohol content that is permitted is 0.05. Also, you can be stopped for a breath test or blood test by authorized personnel.
DOCUMENTS ONE MUST CARRY ALONG WHILE DRIVING
As long as you’re driving in Germany, you have to carry the under mentioned documents-
- Valid Driving License
- Vehicle Ownership Proof and Registration Certificate
- Vehicle Insurance Proof
Although an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a mandatory requirement as per a typical ‘Germany Driving Guide,’ it becomes compulsory if you need a rental vehicle there or anywhere overseas. The International Drivers Association provides the digital copy of an IDP within 24 hours, once it is approved.
EMERGENCY VEHICLES
You’ll have to get aside if any emergency vehicle with the beaming lights “ON” is seen irrespective of the ringing of sirens.
KEEP THESE THINGS HANDY
While on your on-road journey in a foreign land, you must stay prepared for all the possible worst scenarios. Here’s a list of a few items we feel you should always have with yourself;
- Medical Kit
- Modular Helmet
- Warning Triangles (it is mandatory while driving a four-wheeler or over in Germany and must be placed with caution on the road in case of vehicle breakdown)
- Hi-Viz Jackets
- Headlight Deflectors
- In winters, it is highly advised to keep the suitable tires and other necessary equipment that can come in use in snow-covered areas.
