Driving in Berlin
Your complete guide to driving and renting scooters in Berlin, Germany. Learn about IDP requirements, traffic rules, safety tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the road.
International Driving Permit (IDP) in Berlin
IDP Not Required
EU licenses are fully valid. Non-EU licenses accepted for 6 months for tourists. IDP recommended for non-Latin alphabet licenses.
Fine without IDP: €10-50
Where to Get IDP: Apply in your home country if needed.
Accepted Licenses
Traffic Rules in Berlin
Local Traffic Rules
- 1Right before left (rechts vor links) at unmarked intersections
- 2Trams always have priority
- 3Environmental zone (Umweltzone) requires green sticker
- 4No speed limit signs mean 50 km/h in urban areas
- 5Autobahn sections may have no speed limit
- 6Zipper merge (Reißverschluss) is mandatory
Common Tourist Mistakes
- Forgetting right before left rule
- Missing the Umweltzone sticker requirement
- Speeding in 30 km/h zones (heavily enforced)
- Not yielding to trams
- Blocking bike lanes
Horn Culture
Honking is rare and considered rude. Only use for emergencies.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
Speeding
€20-800+ depending on speed
No Helmet
€15 (for motorcycles)
No IDP
€10-50
Red Light
€90-360
Drink Driving
€500-3,000+ license suspension
Safety Tips
Essential Safety Tips
- Berlin is very safe and well-organized
- Excellent public transport - driving often unnecessary
- Watch for cyclists - they have dedicated lanes everywhere
- Be careful of trams in Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg
- Winter can bring ice and snow - drive carefully
Best Time to Drive
Anytime outside rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM). Weekends are quieter.
Rainy Season Warning
No specific season. Winter (Dec-Feb) requires caution for ice and snow.
Areas to Avoid (for beginners)
- Mitte during major events
- Around Alexanderplatz (congested)
- Areas near football stadiums on match days
Parking
Average Cost
€1-4/hour on street, €15-25/day in garagesScooter Parking
Free motorcycle parking in many areas. E-scooters must not block sidewalks.
Parking Tips
- Blue zones require parking disc (Parkscheibe)
- Pay at machines (Parkscheinautomat) or apps
- Residential parking zones need permits
- Many Park & Ride options at S-Bahn stations
- Underground parking at major shopping centers
FAQ: Driving in Berlin
Do I need a car in Berlin?
No. Berlin has excellent public transport (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, buses). A car is only useful for day trips to Brandenburg, Potsdam, or other regions.
What is the Umweltzone?
An environmental zone covering central Berlin. Only vehicles with a green emissions sticker can enter. Most rental cars have this. Without it, fines are €100+.
Is the Autobahn really unlimited speed?
Some sections have no speed limit (marked by white circle with diagonal lines), but many sections have limits. Always watch for signs. Recommended speed is 130 km/h.
How does parking work in Berlin?
Street parking uses pay machines or apps. Blue zones require a parking disc showing arrival time. Many areas are resident-only. Garages are easiest for tourists.
Is Berlin good for road trips?
Yes! Potsdam (30 min), Dresden (2 hours), Hamburg (3 hours), and the Baltic Sea coast are great destinations. The Autobahn network is excellent.
Emergency Contacts
Police
110
Ambulance
112
Roadside Assistance
ADAC: 22 22 22
Partner link – opens GetYourGuide.com
Practice for Your Germany Driving Test
Prepare for the official driving theory test with practice questions, road signs, and study materials.