Catch the Fine, Miss This in Your Vehicle: Don't Forget to Avoid These Essentials in Germany
Navigating vehicle essentials: In Germany, motorists need a valid driver's license, the car registration certificate (avoid the letter version!), documents for vehicle alterations, a warning triangle, a high-visibility vest, and an up-to-date, unexpired first aid kit. Failure to comply during a police inspection may lead to minor penalties.
However, things escalate financially if you transport prohibited items in your vehicle. The ADAC clarifies this in a concise video, with little discussion required due to the limited topic scope.
A knife hidden in your glovebox can cost you a pretty penny
Transporting certain knives unsafely in your vehicle, meaning easily accessible, violates the German Weapons Act, according to an ADAC legal expert. Examples of such easily accessible knives can include those kept in the glove compartment.
The ADAC explains that one-handed knives and blades longer than 12 centimeters, alongside softair pistols, are classified as prohibited weapons. Regular pocket knives, typically having blades around seven centimeters, are generally not a concern.
Be wary of one-handed knives with a pin aid in the blade's middle, a lockable blade, or holes in the blade or a flipper. Blade length doesn't matter with such knives. Manufacturers may permit the blade pin's removal, but it's unclear whether doing so makes the knife legally transportable. Refrain from carrying such a knife unless you have a legitimate interest, typically related to occupation, customs maintenance, sport, or an accepted purpose. If you must transport it but lack such a legitimate interest, keep the knife in a lockable container. The definition of such a container can sometimes be subjective.
What else should you leave out of your vehicle
Other prohibited items to avoid transporting in your vehicle include hazardous substances like explosives and a large number of fireworks, excessive fuel quantities beyond the tank, specific chemicals, firearms, unsecured animals, and items that impact visibility or safety, such as large wooden planks spread across the vehicle.
Keep in mind that, according to the ADAC, police may not search your vehicle during regular traffic control unless there's an immediate danger or a search warrant. In such a situation, you can refuse the inspection. Refusal, however, may result in additional police measures.
In Germany, if you are traveling, remember to leave prohibited items like one-handed knives with blades longer than 12 centimeters and softair pistols at home, as they are classified as prohibited weapons. This is relevant information provided by the ADAC.
For residents or visitors of Germany, it's essential to know that transporting items like hazardous substances, firearms, and excessive fuel quantities beyond the tank is also prohibited within vehicles. The ADAC emphasizes the importance of keeping your vehicle free from such items for safety reasons.
