Driving in Germany

For those travelling from the UK, driving in Germany can be a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the country.

As football fans gear up for the Euro 2024 Tournament, many English and Scottish fans will be heading to Germany in their droves to support their teams. Sorry Wales and Northern Ireland.

Even with all the excitement of the upcoming tournament, it's essential to familiarise yourself with the local driving laws, documentation requirements, speed limits, and parking rules. 

This guide aims to provide UK drivers with all the necessary information to ensure a smooth and safe driving experience in Germany.

Preparing for the Trip: Documentation and Requirements

Before setting off on your German adventure, ensure you have all the necessary documents:

1. Driving Licence: UK drivers can use their UK driving licence to drive in Germany. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required for short visits but can be useful if your UK licence is not in English.
2. Vehicle Insurance: Ensure your car insurance covers you for driving in Europe. Carry your insurance certificate with you.
3. V5C Logbook: You must have the original V5C (vehicle registration document) with you.
4. Passport: Keep your passport handy, as you may need to show it at border controls or during police checks.

Understanding German Driving Laws

Driving laws in Germany can differ significantly from those in the UK. 

Here are some key points to remember:

• Drive on the Right: In Germany, you drive on the right side of the road. This can take some getting used to. Especially at roundabouts and junctions.
• Seat Belts: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. It is also extremely important for your safety.
• Mobile Phones: The use of a mobile phone when you are driving is illegal in Germany. The only time it is permitted is if you have and are using a hands-free system.
• Drink-Driving Limits: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, lower than the UK’s limit. For new drivers (with less than two years of driving experience) and professional drivers, the limit is zero. If you are driving the next day after drinking alcohol bare in mind a lot of German beers are stronger than those in the UK. Keep this in mind so you are not still over the limit on the following day.
• Headlights: It is mandatory to use dipped headlights in poor visibility conditions during the day and at night.

Speed Limits on the Autobahns and Beyond

When it comes to driving, Germany is probably most famous for its autobahns. Especially the fact that certain stretches have no speed limit.

However, you should be aware that speed limits do apply in various areas:

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

It's crucial that you stick and comply with speed limits as fines can be hefty. Traffic cameras are common.

Germany Parking Rules and Regulations

Parking in Germany can be straightforward if you know the rules:

• Parking Signs: Look out for blue and white parking signs indicating where you can park. Pay attention to additional signs that might specify restrictions.
• Parking Discs: In some areas, you need a parking disc (Parkscheibe). Set your arrival time and display it on your dashboard. You need to have this in your car prior to parking. It allows you to indicate to any parking attendants how long your car has been in the space.
• Paid Parking: In cities, you often need to pay for parking using machines or parking apps. Always display your ticket on the dashboard.
• No Parking Zones: Yellow or red lines on the kerb indicate no parking. Be mindful of 'no stopping' signs, especially near junctions and pedestrian crossings.
• Disabled Parking: Make sure you only park in designated spaces, if you have a valid disabled parking permit.

German Environmental Zones

Many German cities have environmental zones (Umweltzonen) to reduce pollution – much like our Clean Air Zones and Low Emission Zones. 

To enter these zones, your vehicle needs a low-emission sticker (Umweltplakette), which you can purchase online or at certain service stations.

Ensure your car meets the required emission standards to avoid fines.

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. Make sure to have cash or a card ready for these payments.

Navigating German Roads

German roads are generally well-maintained, but here are some tips to help you navigate them safely:

• Roundabouts: Unlike in the UK, traffic in the roundabout has right of way unless otherwise indicated.
• Priority Roads: Yellow diamond signs indicate priority roads. Vehicles on these roads have the right of way.
• Pedestrian Crossings: Always give way to pedestrians at zebra crossings.

Emergency Procedures

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, and medical services.

Make sure that you are carrying 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. There is also an increasinly strong network of charging points for electric vehicles.

It is worth noting that much like British service stations, the fuel prices can be higher on autobahns than in city areas.

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​ 

Renting a Car in Germany

If you're renting a car, ensure you understand the terms and conditions, especially regarding insurance and fuel policies. 

Most rental cars will be manual, so specify if you need an automatic.

Useful German Phrases for Drivers

When driving in Germany, knowing a few key phrases can be extremely helpful, especially if you encounter situations where English is not widely spoken.

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?

Parking

• Is parking allowed here?: Ist das Parken hier erlaubt?
• How much is the parking fee?: Wie viel kostet die Parkgebühr?
• Where can I buy a parking ticket?: Wo kann ich ein Parkticket kaufen?

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.

Driving in Germany: Key Takeaways for UK Travellers

Driving in Germany can be a delightful experience, offering the freedom to explore the country's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities at your own pace.

By understanding the local driving laws, speed limits, and parking regulations, UK drivers can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. 

Whether you're navigating the autobahns or discovering quaint villages off the beaten path, being well-prepared will help you make the most of your German road trip.

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