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Germany
Autobahn (Motorways,
Freeways)
The German autobahn system is famed around the world. The well-known fact
that there are no-speed limits is not entirely true - many stretches do have
a limit. In general, the system is well-maintained. The autobahn are
toll-free and remain so, despite regular Government noises about introducing
a Swiss-style vignette system.
Special rules to note are that it is illegal to run out of fuel while on the
autobahn, and that in the event of a traffic jam, a lane must be left clear
for emergency services. On a two lane stretch the left hand lane must pull
over to the left, and the right hand lane to the right, leaving a central
gap.
Breaking your journey
Service stations (Rasthof, Raststätte) are every 40-60km on the autobahn.
They, at a minimum, will offer petrol and a restaurant. Becoming more common
are Autohofs, usually place near exit ramps and boasting cheaper prices than
the stops on the autobahn itself.
Petrol (Gasoline)
Unleaded petrol, diesel, and LPG are available as well as LRP.
Law enforcement
On the spot fines are issued for just about every traffic offence.
Speed Limits - see our
speed converter
Motorway - none - unless indicated
Open Road - 100 kph, with trailer 70 kph
Town - 50 kph
Minimum age for car drivers
17 (even if you legally hold a license at a younger age in your country it
is still illegal to drive in Germany if not 17)
Documentation
At all times you must be able to prove that you are a) licensed to drive the
category of vehicle you are in b) either the owner of the vehicle or that
you have a owner's permission to drive c) insured. Licenses must be
photocard licenses. If you do not have one you must also carry your
passport.
Country of origin stickers
Country of origin stickers (e.g. GB stickers) must be used in Germany,
unless your license plate has the sticker pre-applied.
Headlights
Right-hand drive cars must be adapted using headlight deflectors before you
can drive in Germany, even during daylight hours. Spare bulbs are
recommended. Dipped headlights must be used in poor daylight conditions.
Warning triangle
A warning triangles is compulsory.
First aid kit
A first aid kit must be carried.
Alcohol
The blood alcohol limit is very low at 0.25 milligrams of alcohol per litre
of blood (much lower than the UK at 0.4mg/l) so the simple advise is don't
drink and drive. See our guide to
maximum blood alcohol limits.
Seat belts
Seat belts must be worn front and rear.
Children
Children under 12 cannot travel unless using a suitable restraint i.e. a
booster seat. Children under 4 must use a child seat.
Alenda Car Rental has taken care to
ensure that the information in this website was correct at the time of
publication. However, we can take no responsibility for any harm, or
misfortune, caused by following the advice on this website. You should
always consult the authorities in the country in which you are travelling
for up-to-date advice. |
Suppliers include:
Agg, Alamo, AA, Auto Europa, AutoUnion,
Avis, Budget, Crown, Drive A Matic, Easy Car, Europa, EuroPark, Europcar,
Fox Autorent, Haro, Helle Hollis, Berent, Rentauto, National, Sixt, Niza
Cars, Star Rent a Car, Stoutes, Thrifty.
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