Shut Down on the Road: The Offenses That Will Make You Lose Your License for Good
- By Christian Hensen
- 2 Min
Misplaced Driver's Licenses Result in Penalties - Permanent Revocation of License Granted
In Germany, there are a handful of traffic violations that can result in losing your driver's license permanently. Although the German traffic law is relatively lenient, some offenses can lead to more than just a small fine. But, it's essential to discern between a driving ban and the permanent revocation of your driver's license.
A driving ban is a temporary measure, usually lasting anywhere from one to six months, depending on the severity of the offense. Once the ban expires, you can regain your license without further conditions. Offenses such as speeding, running a red light, or exceeding the blood alcohol limit can lead to a driving ban.
Separating the Wheat from the Chaff: Driving Ban vs. Driver's License Revocation
Now, when your driver's license is revoked, your ability to operate a motor vehicle is removed permanently. After serving the suspension period, you may reapply for your license, but you may have to undergo a medical-psychological examination (MPU). According to ADAC, the costs associated with the reapplication can exceed 2,000 euros—excluding the fine for the initial offense.
The grounds for driver's license revocation are outlined in Section 69 of the Criminal Code (StGB) and commonly encompass alcohol, drugs, illegal street racing, hit-and-run, or endangerment of road traffic.
When Does the Court Yank Your License Permanently?
Section 69a(1) of the Criminal Code can also impose a permanent driver's license revocation if the court believes the statutory maximum period for preventing the offender's danger is insufficient. In such cases, there is no possibility for reinstatement in the absence of a license.
So when does the court take such drastic measures? German newspaper "Auto Zeitung" reports that a permanent driver's license revocation can be imposed for repeated violations of existing suspension periods, repeated drunk driving, or serious behavioral disorders. Criminal offenses where the car is used as a weapon or tool can also lead to permanent revocation.
Moreover, medical reasons come into play when the court determines that an individual's physical or psychological conditions make it impossible to drive.
Balancing the scales – Occasionally, even in Germany, it's better to walk.
Enrichment Data
In Germany, severe traffic violations that lead to the permanent revocation of a driver's license usually involve egregious disregard for traffic laws. Although the specific offenses are not precisely defined in the provided search results, common reasons for revocation in European countries include:
- Driving under the influence (DUI): This offense is serious, particularly when it causes severe impairment or repeated offenses, and can result in license revocation[5].
- Causing severe injury or death while driving: Such incidents can lead to severe penalties, including license revocation[1].
- Reckless endangerment: Engaging in dangerous driving behaviors that put others at risk can result in license suspension or revocation[1].
- Multiple serious traffic offenses: Accumulating several severe infractions over a short period can lead to permanent revocation[5].
In Germany, the decision to revoke a license is based on the severity of the offense and the individual's driving history. Furthermore, German traffic laws are stringent, with violations leading to fines, license suspension, or revocation depending on the severity[1].
- The permanent revocation of a driver's license can be imposed in Germany for repeated violations of existing suspension periods, severe drunk driving, or serious behavioral disorders, as reported by the German newspaper "Auto Zeitung."
- In Europe, a commonly reported reason for the permanent revocation of a driver's license is driving under the influence (DUI), particularly when it causes severe impairment or repeated offenses, as found in various sources.
