Germany's autobahns cover a distance of approx. 11,000km and form an ultra-modern and efficient transport network. More than 700 filling stations, service areas and hotels are open around the clock. There are no tolls on Germany's autobahns. In the event of an accident or breakdown, the German Automobile Association (ADAC) can provide assistance throughout the country. Members of an international partner organisation receive free assistance. Drivers are required to carry a valid driver's licence, the vehicle registration documents and proof of insurance. Vehicles from other countries which do not have a European registration plate incorporating the country code are required to display a sticker showing their country of origin. Leaded petrol is no longer available in Germany. Besides normal diesel, bio-diesel is also available. Germany also has an increasing number of gas filling stations.

Looking for a car rental in Germany? If you're thinking about traveling Germany by car and don't plan to take your own car, this is your best option. Here are a few of the benefits to car rental in Germany.

 

* Convenience. When you need fast and easy car rental, Germany offers it. Rent your car day or night, at more than 40 railway stations from companies such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt. You can also pick up your rental car from various locations, such as airports and hotels, and begin enjoying Germany by car right away.

* Cost and Selection. Depending on the car rental company you deal with, you may be eligible for special weekly rates with unlimited mileage. And you can travel Germany by cars including vans, executive saloons, and compact cars that are all in good driving condition.

In Germany, as in other countries, the usual road traffic regulations apply. Traffic drives on the right, a red light means stop and green means go. Overtaking on the right is prohibited.

For cars without trailers, the speed limit outside built-up areas is 100 km/h. Within built-up areas the limit is 50 km/h. Road signs with the name of the town or village indicate that you are entering a built-up area and signs with a red line through the place name indicate that you are leaving. A maximum speed of 130 km/h is recommended on the autobahns. Cars with trailers (including caravans) are not allowed to exceed 80 km/h on any roads including autobahns.
There are no tolls for cars on Germany's autobahns. Drivers are required to carry a valid driver's licence, the vehicle registration documents and proof of insurance.  It is compulsory to keep a hazard warning triangle and first aid box in the car. The minimum driving age is 18 years. 

The law requires seatbelts to be worn in both front and rear seats. Child seats are mandatory for children up to the age of four, and children up to the age of 12 or a height of 1.50m must use booster cushions. Motorcyclists must wear helmets.

The blood alcohol limit is 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood. Drivers found to be over the limit (breath test and blood sample) can expect severe penalties and the loss of their driving licence. If a driver who has been drinking is involved in an accident, whether or not he caused it, he will be punished for drink-driving even if he is below this limit.

Mobile phones may only be used in conjunction with a hands-free system.
Failure to comply with road traffic laws can be punished by a fine or even the loss of your driving licence.