Road Transportation in Germany

Driving regulations in Germany

Based on the new German legislation on driving regulations established in 2009, the legal age to obtain a driver’s license is 17. Additional to the driver’s license, car registration, ownership and insurance documents are also compulsory when driving on public roads in Germany. Germany also accepts valid foreign driving licenses. According to German regulations, owners of cars must also have a third party insurance. Within environmental green zones, vehicles must carry an environmental badge. Due to weather conditions, winter tires are required during winter time in Germany. Wearing seatbelts is also compulsory for all passengers.

For detailed information about road transportation regulations you can ask our lawyers in Germany.

The driving license in Germany

The driving license is a requirement for all drivers no matter the type of vehicle in Germany. The license must be valid, must be carried while driving and must be presented whenever required by an official. Drivers’ licenses in Germany depend on the category of vehicle:

• - classes A, A1 and M are for motorcycles,
• - classes B and BE are for vehicles with a total weight of 3,500 kg and a maximum of 8 seats,
• - classes C1, C1E, C and CE are for vehicles with weight between 3.5 and 7.5 tons,
• - classes D1, D1E, D and DE are for small buses,
• - classes L and T are for agricultural vehicles.

Holders of EU and EEA (European Economic Area) licenses are allowed to drive in Germany. Foreign citizens in Germany must apply for an international driving license when driving in the country. The international driving license has one-year validity and must be kept together with the national one.

Owning a vehicle in Germany

Individuals are allowed to purchase both new and used cars in Germany. After purchasing a vehicle, the new owner must register and insure the vehicle and perform a roadworthiness test. In order to purchase a new car, the buyer must present the following documents to the dealer:

• - the proof of residency,
• - proof of identity, a passport or an identification card,
• - bank account information from a German bank.

When concluding a car insurance contract, the owner must submit:

• - an ID or passport,
• - the car’s registration form,
• - the receipt or the bill of sale.

For complete information about purchasing or buying a car please contact our law firm in Germany.