The German highway is called the Autobahn (marked with the letter A) and is one of the most famous highways in the world. It has often been used by car programs like Top Gear, because many parts of the Autobahn don't have a speed limit. Mostly the Autobahn contains three lanes, but near major cities there are often four or five lanes. If possible you must use the right lane and pass vehicles on the left side unless there is a trafic jam.
Germans speak German, but the most Germans understand English since they learn English at school. If you need to speak German we have some practical translations for you.
Like to most European countries the currency in Germany is the Euro (€ or EUR).
In Germany you don't have to pay for toll, vignettes or other fees.
If given the speed limit on the Autobahn is 130 km/h but otherwise there is no speed limit. Traffic signs indicate when you leave the 130 km/h zone.
A safety vest, warning triangle and a first aid kit are mandatory for passenger cars.
In Germany the ADAC is the largest roadside assistance company and can be reached on the number +49 180 2 22 22 22.
In Germany and the rest of Europe 112 is the general emergency number.
Petrol stations offer Diesel, Super (95 octane), E10 (90% fossil fuel and 10% ethanol), SuperPlus (98 octane) and LPG (liquid petroleum gas). Since E10 is not suitable for use in all cars you should check compatibility before using it. The local names for unleaded 95 is Super Bleifrei and for unleaded 98 it is Super Plus Bleifrei. LPG can be called as Autogas.
Of course a navigation device is allowed, but beware that you may not use radar detectors and even not navigation software with a speed camera overlay.
While driving using of your mobile phone is forbidden, also while you stopped at a traffic light. You may not use your mobile phone for navigation unless your phone is mounted in the car.
Germany has one of the best facilities near the highway in the world. Mostly you have to pay € 0,70 for toilets and in return you get a € 0,50 voucher which you can use in the shop nearby. You can recognise facilities with this system by the SANIFAIR logo.
Before the traffic lights turn green they shortly show the yellow light. You risk a fine up to € 200 if you drive through a red light.
