Driving in Germany

Each year thousands of Brits take their cars abroad and travel from the UK to Germany. Driving can be a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the beautiful country.

And, as football fans gear up for the Euro 2024 Tournament, there are many English and Scottish fans preparing to head Germany in their droves as they to support their country. 

Before you travel, familiarise yourself with the local driving laws, documents required and any speed limits. 

Documentation and Requirements

Before you begin your upcoming German adventure, it is very important to ensure you have the necessary documents. 

These include:

1. Driving Licence: note – you can use your UK driving licence to drive in Germany. At present (May 2024) an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required for short visits. However, it could be ok use if your UK licence is not in English.
2. Vehicle Insurance: it’s very important to make sure your car insurance covers you for driving in Germany. Remember to carry your insurance certificate with you.
3. V5C Logbook: If driving in your own car, you must have the original V5C (vehicle registration document) with you.
4. Passport: Keep your passport handy. You may need to show it at border controls or any police checks.

Understanding German Driving Laws

Driving laws in Germany don’t differ too significantly from those in the UK. However, there are some key points of difference that you should learn before you drive on any German roads.

Key things include:

1. Drive on the Right: Very important! In Germany you must drive on the right side of the road. 
2. Seat Belts: Like the UK, seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in Germany. 
3. Mobile Phones: do not use your mobile phone when driving. It is illegal in Germany. The only time it is allowed is when using a hands-free system.
4. Drink-Driving Limits: the legal blood alcohol limit is lower than the UK’s limit - 0.05%. If you are a new driver (less than two years), the limit is zero.
5. Headlights: you must use dipped headlights in poor visibility conditions during the day and at night.

Speed Limits on the Autobahns and Beyond

Germany is probably most famous for its autobahns, from a driving point of view. This is mainly due to the fact that certain stretches have no speed limit.

However, speed limits do apply in some areas.

Here is a brief overview of the speed limits in Germany:

1. Autobahns: there is no general speed limit on some sections, it is recommended to drive at 130 km/h (81 mph). Always check for posted speed limits, as many areas have restrictions due to roadworks or high traffic.
2. City Areas: The speed limit in built-up areas is 50 km/h (31 mph).
3. Country Roads: On country roads, the speed limit is 100 km/h (62 mph).

It's crucial to adhere to speed limits as fines can be hefty. Please note: traffic cameras are common.

German Environmental Zones

Like the Clean Air Zones and Low Emission Zones in the UK, many German cities have environmental zones (Umweltzonen) – in a bid to reduce pollution and improve public health.

If you are going to drive through one of these zones, you need to have a low-emission sticker (Umweltplakette) on your vehicle. These can be purchased online, or at certain service stations throughout the country.

Popular destinations with an Umweltzonen include:

• Berlin
• Hamburg
• Munich
• Cologne (Köln)
• Frankfurt am Main

Road Tolls and Vignettes

Unlike many European countries, Germany does not have a general road toll system for private cars. However, there are tolls for certain tunnels and bridges. 

For this reason, it’s important to have cash or a payment card ready in locations that may warrant a toll payment.

Emergency Procedures

In case of an emergency, don’t dial 999.

The best number to call is 112 for police, fire, and medical services. 

It's recommended that you carry a first aid kit, warning triangle, and high-visibility vests in your car, as these are mandatory in Germany.

Fuel Stations and Types

Fuel stations are plentiful and offer a range of fuel types. 

Diesel (Diesel) and unleaded petrol (Benzin) are common. 

Like the UK, fuel prices can be higher on autobahns (motorways) than compared to those in towns and cities. As such, try to plan ahead if you are needing to refuel and try to do so in cheaper locations. 

Cultural Tips When Driving in Germany

• Road Manners: Germans are known for their disciplined driving. Always use indicators and avoid sudden lane changes.
• Overtaking: On the autobahn, keep to the right unless overtaking. Flashing headlights to indicate overtaking is common but should be done sparingly.
• Respect quiet hours: In Germany, "quiet hours" (Ruhezeiten) are from 10 PM to 6 AM on weekdays, all day on Sundays and public holidays, and often from 1 PM to 3 PM in some areas. Avoid making loud noises during these times to show respect for local customs​ 

Useful German Phrases for Drivers

When driving in Germany, knowing a few key phrases can be extremely helpful.

Here are some useful German phrases that might come in handy:

Basic Greetings and Phrases

• Hello: Hallo
• Goodbye: Auf Wiedersehen
• Please: Bitte
• Thank you: Danke
• Excuse me: Entschuldigung
• Yes: Ja
• No: Nein

Asking for Directions

• Where is…?: Wo ist…?
  • the petrol station: die Tankstelle
  • the nearest parking lot: der nächste Parkplatz
  • the hotel: das Hotel
  • How do I get to…?: Wie komme ich zu…?
• Can you show me on the map?: Können Sie es mir auf der Karte zeigen?

In Case of Emergency

• Help!: Hilfe!
• Call the police!: Rufen Sie die Polizei!
• I need a doctor: Ich brauche einen Arzt
• I have had an accident: Ich habe einen Unfall gehabt
• Where is the nearest hospital?: Wo ist das nächste Krankenhaus?

Signs and Road Instructions

• Exit: Ausfahrt
• Entrance: Einfahrt
• Speed limit: Geschwindigkeitsbegrenzung
• One way: Einbahnstraße
• Detour: Umleitung
• No parking: Parkverbot
• No entry: Einfahrt verboten

Learning these phrases will not only help you navigate your driving experience in Germany more smoothly but also show respect for the local language and culture.

Safe travels and enjoy the beautiful game and the beautiful country!