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The Complete Germany Driving and Rental Guide

Whether for leisure or daily use, driving is very popular in Germany, which is said to feature the most well-established and fast Autobahns. However, not all motorways in Germany have unlimited speed restrictions. You are allowed to drive as fast as the circumstances allows on 50% of the motorways, while for the other half are limited from 80 to 130 km/h, which are enforced.

  • Speed Limit and Traffic Signs
  • Seatbelt and Child Safety
  • Parking, Fuel and Toll
  • Traffic Violation
  • Driving Licence and Age Requirements

Speed Limit and Traffic Signs

Driving in Germany is on the right side of the road. On Autobahns, one must take the right lane and overtake from the left. 

Speed Limit

There is a speed limit of 50 km/h in rural areas and 100 km/h in built-up areas. Recommended maximum speed on motorways is 130 km/h.

Traffic Signs

German traffic signs can be classified into 4 types: regulatory, warning, information and direction signs. 


Warning Signs 

Warning signs are in red triangle shape with a few exceptions. 

Germany_Traffic_Sign_Bumpy_RoadBumpy RoadGermany_Traffic_Sign_Level_CrossingLevel CrossingGermany_Traffic_Sign_PedestriansPedestriansGermany_Traffic_Sign_Children_CrossingChildren CrossingGermany_Traffic_Sign_Wild_Animals_CrossingWild Animals Crossing

Regulatory Signs

German regulatory signs mostly feature circular shape with a red border, with some exceptions. 

Germany_Traffic_Sign_Give_WayGive WayGermany_Traffic_Sign_Stop_And_Give_WayStop and Give WayGermany_Traffic_Sign_No_U_turnNo U-TurnGermany_Traffic_Sign_No_OvertakingNo OvertakingGermany_Traffic_Sign_No_Passenger_CarsNo Passenger Car

Information Signs 

Information signs normally feature a square shape as well as blue background, with some other exceptions. 

Germany_Traffic_Sign_First_Aid_or_HospitalFirst Aid or HospitalGermany_Traffic_Sign_Car_Park_Parking_GarageCar Park, Parking GarageGermany_Traffic_Sign_Toll_RoadToll RoadGermany_Traffic_Sign_Stop_CustomsStop-Customs

Direction Signs 

German direction signs mostly feature a blue or yellow background and markings with location signs, route number information and distance. 

Germany_Traffic_Sign_Motorway_Junction_Sign_to_Service_AreaMotorway Junction Sign to Service AreaGermany_Traffic_Sign_Signpost_at_Junction_Leading_Onto_a_Minor_RoadSignpost at Junction Leading Onto a Minor RoadGermany_Traffic_Sign_Diversion_SignDiversion SignGermany_Traffic_Sign_End_of_DiversionEnd of Diversion

Take a further step to read more useful information regarding Germany traffic signs here.

*Please be aware that rules are subject to change. QEEQ.COM will try the best to maintain the accuracy of this information.

Seatbelt and Child Safety

Seatbelt Laws

The driver and all passengers are required by law to wear seatbelts if the car is underway. Failing to do so will incur an on-the-spot fine of €30.

Booster Seat Laws

Children over 150cm tall can sit in the front of the car. Younger ones will require appropriate restraints in the rear. Note that a baby must be seated in a baby seat facing backwards in the front passenger seat, and the front airbag must be disabled. If the child seat is not set properly, a fine of €60 will be imposed.

*Please be aware that rules are subject to change. QEEQ.COM will try the best to maintain the accuracy of this information.

Parking, Fuel and Toll

Parking

· Permitted Parking


Drivers are allowed to park when a “Parkschein” can be found, and can pay the related parking fee to a parking machine. Insert coins to pay for the amount of time you wish to keep your parking spot. then place your ticket on the car’s dashboard in plain sight.

Germany Parking Machine Sign(Image from hiveminer.com)


· Permitted Parking


In Germany, you are considered "parked" if you leave your vehicle or if you stop/stand for longer than 3 minutes, unless you are actively boarding or discharging passengers or loading/unloading cargo. 


You may not park in the following spots: 


- Within 5 metres on either side of an intersection


- In front of driveway entrances or exits, or on the opposite side of the street


- If the roadway is too narrow to allow vehicles to enter or exit the driveway


- If parking will obstruct the use of marked parking places


- Within 15 metres on either side of a bus or streetcar stop marked with a green H-sign with yellow background

Germany_Traffic_Sign_Bus_or_Tram_Stop_15m_Parking_Prohibition_Prior_to_And_Behind_This_Sign_30m_Altogether


- Within 50 metres on either side of a white X-sign with red poles when outside of urban areas or within 5 metres when inside an urban area

Germany_Traffic_Sign_X_Sign_Give_Priority_to_Rail_Transport


- On a priority road outside of urban areas


- In front of a curb-cut or wheelchair ramp


- Adjacent to a traffic island or median


- On the street side of another parked vehicle ("double parked")


- On a marked bike lane - Anywhere there is a “No Parking” sign on the same side of the street

Germany_Traffic_Sign_No_Parking


Parking in forbidden areas will result in a parking fine that generally ranges from €5 to €25.

Fuel Prices

The average value for Germany gasoline price is €1.39 in January 2018 while diesel is €1.16.

Toll

Unlike trucks, passenger car can drive the Autobahn without toll fee. 


However, cross a border into neighbouring countries such as Austria, Switzerland and Czech Republic will require purchasing a vignette that should be stuck on the car’s windshield. Make sure you let the car hire company know if you are planning to drive your vehicle outside Germany, and double-check at the counter whether the rented vehicle features the relevant vignette.

*Please be aware that rules are subject to change. QEEQ.COM will try the best to maintain the accuracy of this information.

Traffic Violation

DUI Laws

Drivers with more than 2 years' experience are charged with a fine if found driving with 0.05% BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) or with 0.03% in conjunction with any other traffic offences or accidents.

Traffic Fines

There are traffic signs indicating a speed limit at many street sections. Drivers who are speeding in Germany may be caught by a speed trap and the fine ranges from €15 to €680 in town and €10 to €600 outside towns.

Germany Speed Trap(Image from ksta.de)


Travellers renting a car in Germany may receive billing details from their credit cards indicating that a certain amount has been debited, mainly because they have been found guilty of speed driving or prohibited parking. You can always contact QEEQ' 24/7 customer service team for clarifications on such cases.

*Please be aware that rules are subject to change. QEEQ.COM will try the best to maintain the accuracy of this information.

Driving Licence and Age Requirements

Foreigners on short-term visit may rent a car and drive with a valid foreign driving licence for up to 6 months in Germany. All licences issued by the European Union are accepted. To drive in Germany, the driver must present a valid national driving licence that has been held for at least 1 or 2 years (according to different car hire companies). 


You must be at least 18 years old to hire a car in Germany, and age may vary by car category. 

*Please be aware that rules are subject to change. QEEQ.COM will try the best to maintain the accuracy of this information.

Guest reviews

1 /
Anonymous

November 4, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

I'm quite satisfied with everything, it's really convenient.

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Anonymous

October 31, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

The line at the airport rental desk was quite long, but picking up the car was easy. I grabbed the keys and walked to the parking lot myself. Returning the car was pretty smooth too—just followed the signs to the designated return area, left the keys inside, and the staff simply let me go. Super convenient! I booked a Ford Focus but ended up with a Renault ARKANA. The car was in great condition, just 18,000km on it, and drove really smoothly. However, the in-car navigation was terrible—either the network was bad or the system itself had issues. The GPS stuck on one spot the whole time but still somehow kept prompting me to make random turns. In the end, I had to rely on my phone’s navigation app.

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Anonymous

October 31, 2025

Destination: Munich

10Excellent

The car was in great condition and very easy to drive. The staff were friendly and patient, making it an awesome experience.

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Zebulon Lena

October 28, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

8Very good

Good service attitude, and the pickup location is easy to find.

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Ben Emily

October 28, 2025

Destination: Munich

10Excellent

Originally rented an economy SUV but was given a Volkswagen Golf hatchback instead; couldn't fit the luggage and had to upgrade to a Tiguan. The latest model Tiguan is really great. Drove 2600 kilometers with it, very stable, which is surely related to the car being new. No unnecessary or deceptive fees. However, car options in Munich were limited, and rental prices were relatively high; I recommend renting in Hamburg instead. Additionally, the return process was efficient, and the deposit refund was quick. Great service.

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Wayne Raymond

October 27, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Very good.

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Ogden Bill

October 26, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

8Very good

There was a one-hour delay during car pickup, but fortunately, it didn't affect much. The car was in good condition, and the procedures were simple. On the last day, the tire had a slow leak. QEEQ customer service was very proactive in providing assistance, but the road assistance service in Germany was disappointing and very slow to respond. Both pickup and drop-off were at Frankfurt International Airport Terminal 2.

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Zebulon Abraham

October 24, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

8Very good

Morning flights at Terminal 2 are limited, so there's not much waiting time. When picking up the car, they might try to sell you insurance. Just inform them that you've already purchased comprehensive coverage in your home country.

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Neil Margaret

October 24, 2025

Destination: Erding

10Excellent

Not bad.

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drobbs_f

October 24, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Mr. Ali at the pick up, and Ms. Jolina at the drop of where super helpful and friendly. It is of the modern times that they had to claim for a good review. I don`t like this necessary part.

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Amanda Veblen

October 21, 2025

Destination: Munich

8Very good

When we went, there weren't many people, so the process was quite smooth. The customer service staff followed the standard procedure.

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Hermosa Charlotte

October 20, 2025

Destination: Munich

8Very good

I have rented with QEEQ before. Their customer service is excellent, very responsive, the rental location is easy to find, and the process is smooth.

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Augus Toby

October 20, 2025

Destination: Cologne

10Excellent

There was a promotion for towing insurance and similar services.

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Len Carter

October 19, 2025

Destination: Munich

10Excellent

The process was relatively quick. There was a bit of upselling, but after I politely declined, they didn't persist.

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Archibald Samuel

October 19, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Picking up and returning the car were both very convenient.

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Peter Wallace

October 19, 2025

Destination: Munich

8Very good

The car model was not very satisfactory. I had reserved a Polo but was given a Hyundai with a 1.0 engine displacement, which is unfamiliar since this model isn't available domestically. It was essentially downgraded by half a level and struggled on the highway. Apart from that, the vehicle was quite new, in good condition, and both pickup and drop-off were smooth and convenient.

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Bradley Jefferson

October 16, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Great experience, thumbs up!

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Antony Delia

October 16, 2025

Destination: Dusseldorf

10Excellent

Pickup and drop-off were quite convenient, but the entrance at the Düsseldorf drop-off location was hard to find.

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Adolph Julius

October 15, 2025

Destination: Munich

10Excellent

The condition of the car was excellent. During the longer rental period, Hertz provided the most considerate service when switching cars. Returning the car was simple and quick, with professional staff inspecting the vehicle and addressing any issues according to the process, showcasing the service standard of a major company. At pick-up, I mentioned that I had already purchased full insurance, and there were no attempts to sell additional insurance throughout the rental process. Overall, an excellent car rental experience. Hertz will definitely be my first choice for future travels! Encountered a yellow warning from the vehicle's electronic system, and QEEQ's customer service provided timely support.

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Clyde Abe

October 15, 2025

Destination: Munich

10Excellent

Good service attitude and short waiting time. Europcar's vehicle conditions are excellent, and the service process is simple and efficient. Highly recommended.

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Phyllis Morgan

October 14, 2025

Destination: Munich

10Excellent

The staff at the car rental company was very patient, had a great attitude, and provided clear guidance.

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Guy Haywood

October 14, 2025

Destination: Stuttgart

10Excellent

I will continue to choose Europcar.

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Tobey Dorothy

October 13, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Short queue and efficient vehicle inspection.

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Geoffrey Fanny

October 13, 2025

Destination: Munich

8Very good

Arrived at 9 AM and waited in line for an hour. Domestic orders require no deposit, but the company desk charged €645 on the credit card as a pre-authorization hold. Contacted QEEQ customer service for clarification.

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Roderick Crofts

October 13, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

8Very good

The originally reserved car was replaced with a new Nissan, which was reasonable. The 280 euros deposit was charged to the credit card for 7 days. Picking up and returning the car was very convenient.

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Kent Stephens

October 13, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Very satisfied

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Robert Field

October 13, 2025

Destination: Munich

8Very good

The pick-up and drop-off processes were very smooth, and the car provided was much better than the one booked.

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Abner Timothy

October 13, 2025

Destination: Dusseldorf

10Excellent

The processing efficiency is not high.

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Caesar Dunlop

October 12, 2025

Destination: Munich

10Excellent

Very satisfied. The only downside is that the Audi provided to two petite Asian women only has parking sensors and no rearview camera. The car is too long, making it impossible to see the ground ahead or behind while reversing or navigating narrow, sloped parking garages.

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Edwina Bloor

October 12, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

8Very good

The service was warm and attentive, instructions were detailed, and the car was in excellent condition.

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Hyman Wilde

October 11, 2025

Destination: Munich

10Excellent

Very satisfied, highly recommend! Munich, Germany is truly amazing.

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Madge Walter

October 11, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Very good, no hassle.

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Troy Nick

October 10, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Quite good. The insurance bought on QEEQ is from a domestic platform, not the car rental company. The rental company will inform you that the insurance is not all-inclusive.

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Susanna Tomlinson

October 10, 2025

Destination: Munich

10Excellent

No additional sales pressure, smooth pickup and drop-off process.

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Beau Bentham

October 10, 2025

Destination: Cologne

10Excellent

Very patient and excellent service.

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Carter Parker

October 9, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Excellent

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Myron Hewlett

October 8, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Very quick and convenient

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Beck Maggie

October 8, 2025

Destination: Munich

10Excellent

Good service, easy to use.

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Molly Ann

October 7, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

The car rental process was simple and fast, and the additional insurance charges were reasonable.

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Hilda Freeman

October 7, 2025

Destination: Munich

8Very good

It's fine.

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Bob Stowe

October 5, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

8Very good

The car was great.

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Miranda III.

October 5, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Originally rented a Skoda Kamiq, but it was unavailable. The replacement car couldn't fit two 28-inch suitcases, so I swapped cars three times. Finally, they provided a Volvo V60 hybrid station wagon, which was a brand-new car with just over 300 miles. By the second day, I got used to it and ended up loving it.

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Armand Church

October 4, 2025

Destination: Freiburg

10Excellent

Picking up the car at the Freiburg branch was smooth and very satisfying.

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Cara Garden

October 4, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Professional service, very friendly attitude, no hidden fees or scams. Hertz is a reputable company worth trusting.

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Gabriel Frances

October 3, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

The service attitude was really good, very attentive in providing various information, answering all questions, and the car pickup was very fast.

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Betsy Butler

October 1, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Satisfactory

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Christian Kingsley

October 1, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

Pretty good overall.

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Leona Sherwood

September 30, 2025

Destination: Dusseldorf

10Excellent

Tried to sell me something, but I refused.

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Sidney Zimmerman

September 29, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

The rental car service was right outside after arriving, but it doesn't open until 7 AM, so don't come too early. The service attitude was excellent, and they fully understood our need for large luggage space, directly offering us the Tayron with the largest luggage capacity.

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Abner Timothy

September 29, 2025

Destination: Frankfurt

10Excellent

The service at the Frankfurt Airport rental car company was excellent, especially the staff who personally guided me to the garage to pick up the car. Otherwise, I might have spent a long time looking for it! Kudos to the staff.

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Best car rental deals in Germany

Best rates found by QEEQ users in the last 30 days.

Frequently asked questions

Q1.What is an insurance excess?

The excess is the amount you'll only be liable for in case of damage(under Collision Damage Waiver) or theft(under Theft Protection) of the vehicle.
Information about the excess will be clearly stated in the price inclusion when you reserve a car on QEEQ.

Q2. How can I add an addtional driver?

You are advised to make a request upon your arrival at the rental counter. Additional charge per day will incur unless '1 Additional Driver Included' is stipulated on the rental.
Please note that the same licence and age requirement applys to the additonal driver. The addtional driver is supposed to present the required licence document along with the main driver at pickup.

Q3.What if I want to pick up or drop off my rental car out of office hours?

QEEQ will show you the car offers available at your chosen time on the search results.
However, pick-up or drop-off out of general opening hours may subject to an extra fee unless self-service pick-up or drop-off is available.
After you reserve a car on QEEQ, we will inform you of specific policy of the car hire company by email.

Q4. Can I take the hired car to another country or cross border?

If you want to pick up your car in one country and drop it in another, your search results will show you cars you can do that with.
If you're planning to cross any borders during your trip, bear in mind:
1. You may have to pay more.
There are often extra fees, taxes or additional cover you'll pay at the car hire counter.
2.It may not be allowed.
Depending on where you're hiring, you may not be able to take your car to another country.
Please email us if you want to take your hire car into a different country during your trip, and we'll talk you through your options.

Q5. Can I pick up my car at one location and return it at different location?

Yes. You can pick up the vehicle in one place and drop it off in another. An ‘one-way fee’ will incur. Whether it is inclued in the rental price or what additional cost may arise will be clearly stated at the time of booking on QEEQ.
Please inform the car hire company of your drop-off location when you pick up the vehicle or contact them directly during your trip. You will find a phone number on the rental agreement you signed at pickup.

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