Germany vs Greece: Driving Rules Compared

Germany and Greece read like similar rulebooks until the details bite — penalties, kit and enforcement all diverge. Motorway limits happen to match at 130 km/h; the side-by-side below shows where the rulebooks actually part ways.

Drivers will find the transition between Germany and Greece easy, as both countries drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Speed Limits Comparison

Germany and Greece share comparable speed limits, making the transition between them relatively smooth for drivers.

Drivers in Germany should observe limits of 50 km/h in built-up areas, 100 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h (No general speed limit on Autobahn; 130 km/h recommended) on motorway stretches.

In Greece, the standard speed limits are 30 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on motorways.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Always check posted speed signs when crossing between Germany and Greece. Relying on your knowledge of one country’s limits while driving in the other is a common cause of speeding fines for tourists.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Beyond speed limits, Germany and Greece have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Germany drives on the right; Greece drives on the right. Since both countries use the same driving side, the transition is seamless in this regard.

Minimum driving age: The minimum age to drive a car is 18 in Germany and 17 in Greece.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Germany, the penalty is EUR 100 + 1 point. In Greece, the penalty is EUR 100. Hands-free devices are generally permitted in both countries, but drivers should keep their attention on the road.

Seatbelts: Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants in both Germany and Greece. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is EUR 30 in Germany and EUR 350 in Greece.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Germany, expect EUR 90 + 1 point (within 1 second); EUR 200 + 2 points + 1 month ban (over 1 second). In Greece, the penalty is EUR 700 + licence suspension 60 days.

Alcohol and DUI Laws

Alcohol and driving regulations differ between Germany and Greece, and the penalties for non-compliance can be severe in both.

Germany sets its blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.05%.

Greece has a BAC limit of 0.05%.

Both countries share similar BAC limits, so drivers can apply the same level of caution in either country.

In both countries, penalties for drink-driving include fines, licence suspension, and potential imprisonment for serious offences. New and young drivers often face stricter limits (typically 0.00% to 0.02% BAC) in both Germany and Greece. The safest approach is always to avoid any alcohol before driving.

Tyre and Equipment Requirements

Before driving in Germany or Greece, check that your vehicle carries all the legally required equipment. Requirements differ between the two countries.

Winter Tyres

• Germany: Winter tyres are situational. Period: Situational (when conditions require: ice, snow, slush, black ice). Studded tyres: prohibited. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• Greece: Winter tyres are not_required. Studded tyres: unknown. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.

Mandatory Equipment

When renting a car, rental companies typically provide the legally required equipment for the country of hire. If you plan to cross the border, confirm with the rental agency that the vehicle is equipped for both countries.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Germany and Greece.

In Germany, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: EUR 30 (within city) / EUR 20 (outside city). Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

In Greece, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: EUR 40. Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

Both countries use a combination of fixed speed cameras, mobile speed traps, and in some cases average speed (section control) cameras.

Licence Requirements for Visitors

International visitors planning to drive in either country should understand the licence requirements.

Germany: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 6 months on a foreign licence EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU licences valid for 6 months with IDP. Some countries have bilateral agreements.

Greece: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence EU/EEA licences valid. IDP required for non-Latin-script licences.

Always carry your licence (and IDP if applicable) while driving, as police may request to see it during routine checks or traffic stops.

Emergency Numbers

Save these emergency numbers before travelling to Germany or Greece:

The EU-wide emergency number 112 works in both countries and connects to the appropriate emergency service.

Practical Tips for Driving in Both Countries

Before hitting the road in Germany or Greece, consider these practical driving tips:

1. Respect local driving culture. Overtaking norms, horn usage, and right-of-way conventions differ. Observe local drivers and adapt accordingly.

2. Carry the right documents. Ensure you have your driving licence, IDP (if needed), vehicle registration, and insurance documents. Some countries require you to carry these at all times.

3. Check insurance coverage. Verify that your motor insurance or rental agreement covers driving in both countries. A Green Card may be required for cross-border travel.

4. Research before you go. Familiarise yourself with the specific rules of each country before your trip. Print or save a summary of key rules for quick reference.

5. Plan fuel stops. Fuel prices and station availability can vary significantly. In some regions, stations may close at night or on Sundays.

6. Equip your vehicle properly. Ensure you have all mandatory equipment for both countries. It is better to carry extra items than to face a fine for missing equipment.

7. Watch for different road signs. While European countries share many sign conventions, there are country-specific signs you should recognise. Review a local driving guide before your trip.

8. Adjust to speed limits immediately. When crossing the border, speed limits change. Look for signs and adjust your driving accordingly. Do not rely on habits from the other country.

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

Which country is easier to drive in depends on your experience level, where you are from, and what conditions you are used to.

Based on tourist ratings, Germany scores 2.1/5 (Easy). Excellent roads, clear signage, Autobahn can be intense

Based on tourist ratings, Greece scores 3.4/5 (Moderate). Variable road quality, aggressive drivers, island ferries, mountain roads

Since both Germany and Greece drive on the right, the transition between the two is smooth for most drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Greece with a Germany driving licence?

Yes, EU/EEA driving licences are fully valid in both countries without additional documentation.

What is the speed limit on motorways in Germany compared to Greece?

The motorway speed limit in Germany is 130 km/h (No general speed limit on Autobahn; 130 km/h recommended), while in Greece it is 130 km/h. Always watch for posted signs, as limits may vary on specific sections due to roadworks, weather, or local restrictions.

Are winter tyres mandatory in Germany or Greece?

In Germany, winter tyres are situational (Situational (when conditions require: ice, snow, slush, black ice)). In Greece, they are not_required (no specific period). If you are travelling during winter months, it is advisable to use winter tyres regardless of legal requirements for safety.

Which country has stricter drink-driving laws?

Both countries have the same BAC limit of 0.05%, so the strictness is comparable. Penalties in both countries are serious and can include licence suspension, heavy fines, and imprisonment.

What side of the road do they drive on in Germany and Greece?

Germany drives on the right side and Greece drives on the right side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Germany in Greece?

If both countries are within the EU/EEA, your motor insurance Green Card (or its digital equivalent) typically provides minimum third-party cover in both countries. Check with your insurer for full coverage details.

What emergency number should I call while driving in Germany or Greece?

In Germany, the general emergency number is 112 (police: 110, ambulance: 112). In Greece, call 112 (police: 100, ambulance: 166). The pan-European number 112 works in both countries.

Greece cut the default built-up-area limit to 30 km/h on 1 January 2026. 50 km/h now applies only on one-way roads with at least two lanes, two-way roads with at least two lanes per direction, or roads with a central median — unless a sign says otherwise.