In Der Probezeit Zu Schnell Gefahren

Willkommen in Deutschland! Planning a trip, a short stay, or even just passing through? Driving is a fantastic way to explore this beautiful country. But, if you're a new driver – especially if you're in your Probezeit, or probationary period – it’s absolutely crucial to understand the rules of the road, particularly regarding speeding.

Speeding in Germany can be a costly mistake, and the consequences are even steeper for those in their probationary period. This guide is here to help you navigate the ins and outs of driving in Germany while you're in your Probezeit, focusing on what happens if you get caught speeding.

Was ist die Probezeit? (What is the Probationary Period?)

The Probezeit is a two-year probationary period that begins the day you receive your German driver's license (Führerschein). Think of it as a trial run. The goal is to ensure that new drivers gain experience and demonstrate responsible driving behavior before becoming fully licensed drivers. This period applies even if you've had a license in another country for years; upon receiving your German license, the Probezeit clock starts ticking.

During this period, the rules of the road apply to you just as they do to any other driver. However, certain traffic violations carry significantly heavier consequences. Getting caught speeding is one of those violations.

Geschwindigkeitsüberschreitungen während der Probezeit (Speeding During the Probationary Period)

Speeding, even seemingly minor offenses, is taken very seriously during the Probezeit. The penalties are designed to be a deterrent and to encourage safe driving habits. Here's a breakdown of what to expect if you’re caught:

A-Verstöße (A Offenses) and B-Verstöße (B Offenses)

Traffic violations in Germany are categorized into A and B offenses. A offenses are more serious and directly impact the Probezeit. B offenses are less serious but can still have consequences if you accumulate enough of them.

Speeding falls under the A offense category if it involves exceeding the speed limit by a certain margin. While the exact threshold can vary slightly, a common guideline is exceeding the speed limit by 21 km/h or more. It's crucial to remember that even exceeding the speed limit by a smaller amount can still result in a fine and points on your license, which we'll discuss later.

Consequences of an A Offense (Speeding) During Probezeit

If you commit an A offense, such as speeding, during your Probezeit, the following will likely occur:

Verlängerung der Probezeit (Extension of the Probationary Period): Your Probezeit will be extended by two years, effectively doubling it to a total of four years.
Anordnung zur Teilnahme an einem Aufbauseminar (Order to Attend a Remedial Course): You will be required to attend a Aufbauseminar, which is a remedial course designed to improve your driving skills and knowledge of traffic laws.
Points on Your License (Punkte in Flensburg): You will receive points on your driving record in the national driver registry in Flensburg. The number of points depends on the severity of the speeding offense.
Fine (Geldbuße): You will have to pay a fine, the amount of which depends on how much you exceeded the speed limit.

Let's break down each of these consequences:

Verlängerung der Probezeit (Extension of the Probationary Period)

This is a significant consequence. Having your Probezeit extended means you'll be under increased scrutiny for a longer period. Any further traffic violations during this extended period will result in even more serious consequences, potentially leading to the revocation of your license.

Anordnung zur Teilnahme an einem Aufbauseminar (Order to Attend a Remedial Course)

The Aufbauseminar is not a punishment; it's an opportunity to learn and improve. The course typically involves several group sessions and a driving observation. The focus is on identifying and correcting your driving weaknesses, improving your understanding of traffic laws, and developing safer driving habits. Failing to attend the Aufbauseminar can lead to the revocation of your driver's license.

These courses are offered by various driving schools and institutions throughout Germany. You'll need to register for a course and complete it within a specific timeframe. The cost of the Aufbauseminar is borne by the driver.

Points on Your License (Punkte in Flensburg)

The point system in Flensburg is used to track traffic violations. Accumulating too many points can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driver's license. The number of points you receive for speeding depends on the severity of the offense. Receiving eight points will result in the loss of the driving license.

Fine (Geldbuße)

The amount of the fine depends on how much you exceeded the speed limit and whether the speeding occurred within or outside of a built-up area. The fines can range from a few euros for minor offenses to hundreds of euros for more serious violations. Additionally, exceeding the speed limit by a large margin can also lead to a driving ban (Fahrverbot).

What if I Accumulate B Offenses?

While a single B offense won't trigger the same immediate consequences as an A offense, accumulating two B offenses during your Probezeit will be treated as an A offense. This will result in the extension of your Probezeit and the order to attend an Aufbauseminar.

What To Do If You Get Caught Speeding

If you are stopped by the police for speeding:

Remain Calm and Cooperative: Be polite and respectful to the officers. Providing identification documents and answering questions truthfully is important.
Do Not Admit Guilt: While cooperation is key, avoid admitting guilt at the scene. You have the right to remain silent.
Receive the Notice: The police will typically issue a written notice (Anhörungsbogen or Bußgeldbescheid) outlining the alleged offense, the potential penalty, and your rights.
Seek Legal Advice (Optional): If you are unsure about your rights or believe there may be grounds to challenge the ticket, consult with a lawyer specializing in traffic law (Verkehrsrecht).
Respond to the Notice: You will have a limited time to respond to the notice. You can admit the offense, deny the offense, or remain silent. If you deny the offense, the case may proceed to court.

Tips for Avoiding Speeding Tickets During Your Probezeit

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to help you avoid speeding tickets during your Probezeit:

Know the Speed Limits: Pay close attention to speed limit signs. Remember that speed limits can change frequently, especially in urban areas and near construction zones. If there is no sign, the general rule of the road applies.
Use a GPS Navigation System: Many GPS navigation systems display the current speed limit. This can be a helpful reminder.
Drive Defensively: Be aware of your surroundings and adjust your speed to the road conditions, traffic, and weather.
Use Cruise Control: On highways, cruise control can help you maintain a consistent speed and avoid inadvertently exceeding the limit.
Regularly Check Your Speedometer: Make it a habit to glance at your speedometer frequently to ensure you are within the speed limit.
Be Aware of Radar Traps: While not always possible to anticipate, be aware that police often use radar to detect speeding drivers.

Verkehrsregeln: Ein Kurzer Überblick (Traffic Rules: A Brief Overview)

Beyond speed limits, it's essential to be familiar with other key traffic rules in Germany:

Right-of-Way (Vorfahrt): Understand right-of-way rules at intersections. Generally, "right before left" applies unless otherwise indicated by signs.
Lane Discipline: Stay in the right-hand lane unless overtaking.
Overtaking (Überholen): Overtake on the left.
Use of Indicators (Blinker): Always use your turn signals to indicate your intentions.
Mobile Phone Use: Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless it's hands-free.
Alcohol Limit: The blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is typically 0.05% for experienced drivers. However, for drivers in their Probezeit and for those under 21, the BAC limit is 0.0%. This means even a small amount of alcohol can result in serious consequences.

Conclusion

Driving in Germany during your Probezeit requires extra vigilance and awareness. Understanding the rules of the road, especially regarding speeding, is crucial to avoid costly penalties and potential complications. By being a responsible and cautious driver, you can enjoy exploring Germany's beautiful landscapes and cities without putting your license – or your wallet – at risk. Gute Fahrt! (Safe travels!)