Driving in Germany
Before you pick up your car hire in Germany, it is worth noting some of the rules and regulations about driving in Germany.
Driving license requirements in Germany:
Visitors may drive using their national license, provided it is in a language that uses the Roman alphabet.
Holders of other licenses generally must also show an International Driving Permit in English (available through motoring organisations such as AA, AAA, RAC, etc.). All other driving licenses are acceptable.
The authorities require that you carry your drivers license with you at all times.
Speed Limits on roads in Germany:
| Motorway | None except for speed limit signs |
| Open road | 90-100 km/h |
| In town and villages | 50 km/h |
Age requirements for driving in Germany:
Car hire companies in Germany employ age restrictions, which can vary across companies. Please check your quotation for exact restrictions, as there may be an extra fee for drivers below the minimum age or over the maximum age.
Tips for driving your hire car in Germany:
- Drive on the right. Don't obstruct fast lanes.
- Be aware of what's happening around you. Adapt to local conditions.
- In Germany, the driver and front seat passenger must wear seat belts
- Germany requires children to wear seat belts even in the back seats.
- Special child seats are required for babies and young children between 1.5 to 12 years of age.
- There is no maximum speed limit in Germany, but abide by speed limit indicators as they are compulsory.
- A warning triangle and a first aid kit are compulsory.
- Visibility vest is not compulsory but is recommended.
- Radar detectors are illegal.
- Do not argue with police. Be polite, be patient.
- Drinking and driving incurs heavy fines or prison sentences in Germany. The limit is 0.05%.
Fuel types available in Germany:
- Unleaded Petroleum (gasoline)
- Diesel
- LPG
- Check carefully before filling whether your rental car uses petrol or diesel. If you make a mistake do not start the vehicle as severe damage may result and you will be liable for repair costs. Inform service station staff who will assist in arranging for the tank to be drained and refilled with the correct fuel
- Gas stations are generally open 24 hours a day and most are self-service. Times vary particularly in rural areas.
- Most credit cards are accepted for fuel payment.
Parking in Germany:
- It is best to use designated 'off street' car parks as strict laws apply for street parking. If you do park on the street:
- Always park on the right, your car must not face the traffic
- Do not park in front of yellow or red road lines or within 10 feet of a fire hydrant
- Do not park on a white line at a bus stop
- No parking signs should always be obeyed as clamping and on-the-spot fines are common in major towns and cities
- Severe penalties may be incurred for dangerous parking
