Traffic Laws in Germany Part 1

What Drivers Need to Know

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Traffic laws in Germany govern the safe transport of people and goods on public roads. They apply not only to drivers but also to cyclists and pedestrians. For Romanian citizens living in Germany in particular, these regulations are often complicated and difficult to understand. That is why it is important to be familiar with the most important rules and their consequences.

Alcohol and Drugs While Driving

Germany has strict rules regarding driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Even small amounts of alcohol can cause problems if driving errors or signs of impairment are observed.

Blood Alcohol Limits in Germany

• Up to 0.5‰, driving is generally not punishable as long as there are no signs of impairment.
• At 0.3‰ or higher, relative unfitness to drive may already be assumed.
• At 1.1‰ or higher, the driver is considered absolutely unfit to drive—the driver’s license is typically revoked for 10 to 12 months.

For new drivers under 21 or those in their probationary period, a strict 0.0‰ limit applies.

New Drivers and the Probationary Period

The probationary period in Germany lasts two years. Stricter rules apply during this time.

Important regulations for new drivers

• Alcohol and drugs are completely prohibited.
• Serious violations such as speeding or running a red light are considered so-called A-violations.
• Even a single A-violation can lead to an extension of the probationary period and a mandatory refresher course.

Many young drivers underestimate the consequences of minor traffic violations. Accidents caused by speeding or distraction while driving are particularly common.

Cell Phones While Driving

Using a cell phone while driving is permitted only via a hands-free device or voice control.

Possible Penalties

• €100 fine and 1 point for basic use
• Higher penalties for endangering others or causing an accident
• For new drivers, a cell phone violation counts as a serious offense

Even a few seconds of distraction can cause serious accidents.

Hit-and-run – A serious criminal offense

Anyone who leaves the scene of an accident without permission is committing a hit-and-run.

What is important?

• You must remain at the scene of the accident and provide your personal information to those involved or to the police.
• Leaving a note on the car is not legally sufficient.
• In cases of significant damage, you face high fines, points on your license, and possible license suspension.

Many people involved make the wrong decisions out of fear. Acting quickly and correctly is therefore crucial.

MPU – Medical-Psychological Examination

The MPU is often ordered following alcohol- or drug-related offenses or serious traffic violations.

Reasons for an MPU

• Drunk driving
• Drug use
• Too many points in Flensburg
• Repeated serious traffic violations

The MPU assesses whether a person is still fit to drive a vehicle. Without passing the MPU, it is often not possible to have a driver’s license reinstated.

Our next article will cover fines, points, and driving bans in Germany.

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