Driving in Germany
Germany has an extremely modern road network and most famously miles of derestricted Autobahns. There are also some amazing scenic driving routes, especially in and around the Black Forest region.
For those who require some real high speed action a visit to the Nürburgring is a must. Known locally as "The Ring", it’s a motorsport race track which was built around the village of Nürburg, in the 1920s. For a small daily fee anyone can turn up and give it a go, but be aware, it’s supposedly addictive!
| Min Age | Car / Motorcyle (over 50cc): 18; Motorcyle (under 50cc): 16 |
| Drive | Right |
| Lights | Right Hand Drive vehicles must us headlamp convertors. |
| Speeds | Open Road 100 km/h; Town: 50km/h (30km/h;; Motorway: None, unless shown |
| Drink Drive | Don't! |
| High Visibility Vest | Recommended. |
| First Aid Kit | Required |
| Fire Extinguisher | Compulsory |
| Warning Triangle | Recommended |
| Motorways | The autobahns in Germany are not actually subject to an overall speed limit, however many stretches of autobahn are covered by signed speed limits, which are normally closely observed by the locals. Be aware that the blue speed limit signs, which normally show 130 are merely guideline maximum speeds. |
| Motorcycle Crash Helmet | Compulsory for rider and passenger |
| Seat Belts | Compulsory for all occupants if fitted |
| Children | Require suitable restraint under 12yrs (or 1.5m in height) to travel in font or back. |
The main motoring organisations in Germany are Alleghenies Deutscher Automobil Club (ADAC), Automobilclub von Deutschland (AvD) and Deutscher Segler Verband (DSV). They offer a variety of insurance cover, breakdown assistance and other services to members.
