Before you begin your ride in Germany, there are certain rules you need to know before driving or taking a taxi with the children.
When expats or tourists arrive in Germany, they may not be well informed about the rules. Especially when it comes to children or babies.
What to consider when driving with children in Germany
The German law specifies children up to 12 years of age and are less than 1.5 meters in height must only ride in an approved car seat or booster seat whether in a personal car or in a taxi.
The child may ride in the back seat with a seat belt on if all other restraints are being used by other children.
Children under three years of age must not be in a moving vehicle without an appropriate car seat.
German law also states that rearward facing infant seats are not allowed in the front seat of a vehicle which has an airbag.
What to do if I don’t have a child seat?
Both personal vehicles as well as taxis are subject to the child seat regulations.
Generally, Germany's taxis have child seats that are suitable for your child; however, airport taxis might not have infant car seats. Therefore, you may either bring your own car seat or rent one if you are here for a vacation.
There are a number of websites that offer the rental of children's products, such as toddgo or mami-poppins. With toddgo, you can place orders online and receive the items on arrival in the airport. When you leave Germany, you can leave the items at the airport with a toddgo personal free of charge.
Other important things to consider while driving in Germany
Child car seats: German law requires children under 12 years of age or under 150 cm in height to use a child car seat or booster seat appropriate for their age and weight. Make sure to choose a suitable car seat and install it properly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Seat belts: All passengers, including children, must wear a seat belt at all times while the vehicle is in motion.
Speed limits: Germany has specific speed limits in place for different types of roads, so make sure to obey them. In urban areas, the speed limit is usually 50 km/h, on rural roads it's usually 100 km/h, and on the autobahn it's often unrestricted.
Rest breaks: It's important to take regular rest breaks when driving long distances with children. In Germany, drivers are required to take a break of at least 45 minutes after four and a half hours of driving.
Child-friendly stops: Plan your route to include child-friendly stops along the way. Many rest areas in Germany have playgrounds and other facilities for children.
Entertainment: To keep children occupied during long drives, bring books, toys, and electronic devices such as tablets or portable DVD players.
Snacks and drinks: Bring plenty of snacks and drinks to keep children hydrated and fed during the trip.
Weather conditions: Be aware of the weather conditions and adjust your driving accordingly. In winter, for example, snow and ice can make driving more challenging, so make sure to have appropriate tires and drive more cautiously.
Emergency kit: Bring an emergency kit that includes a first-aid kit, a warning triangle, and a reflective vest in case of an emergency.
Rules of the road: Make sure to familiarize yourself with the rules of the road in Germany, including traffic signs, signals, and right-of-way laws.
Some Frequently Asked Questions about Driving in Germany
Are child seats mandatory when driving with children in Germany?
Yes, child seats are mandatory for children up to 12 years of age or under 150 cm in height. The type of seat required depends on the child's age, weight, and height.
