Germany

Here's what you'll need to know when driving in Germany. Anyone driving in Germany should make sure they take extra care on the country's autobahns, where many stretches have no speed restrictions applied.

Road deaths per 100,000 of population. UK average 3.1 (2010):
•4.5 per 100,000 of population

Minimum age for drivers
•18

Maximum speed limit

Motorways:
•No official speed limit, however top speed of 130kph/80mph is generally recommended unless signs say otherwise
Open roads:
•100kph/62mph
Urban areas:
•50kph/31mph

Alcohol limit per 100ml of blood
•50mg

Equipment required in car
•A warning triangle (recommended)
•Headlamp converters. These are stickers on your headlight, which prevent oncoming motorists being dazzled by UK-configured headlamps
•First aid kit

Documentation to be carried
•Full British licence (if it's not a photo version, you'll need another form of photographic ID, such as a passport)
•Original registration document, or hire-car paperwork
•Motor insurance policy

Exterior markings
•A GB sticker unless 'Euro-plates' are fitted

General requirements
•Seatbelts to be worn by all vehicle occupants
•The use of dipped headlights is recommended at all times - and use is compulsory in rain, snow or fog. Using sidelights only is not allowed
•Cars must be equipped with winter tyres in winter weather conditions. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to 80 (around 65)
•Like the London Congestion Charge, certain German cities have emissions zones, where a permit is required to drive. However, unlike the London Conngestion Charge, the German version needs to be applied for in advance. Get more information here:
http://www.stadt-koeln.de/en/3/environment/00109/

On the spot fines issued
•Yes

Radar detectors
•Forbidden

This information is provided as a guide to driving in the aforementioned country, but is not intended as complete legal guidance. It is the driver's responsibility to ensure they follow national driving laws.