Driving in Germany
If you intend driving in Germany, please read this section carefully. If you have not driven on the Continent before and are apprehensive about doing so, write to your new unit and ask them to send you a copy of ‘Manual for Road Users in Germany, Belgium and Holland’ . You will have to study this manual later to enable you to pass the written British Forces European Traffic Regulations Test.
If you propose to buy a new tax free vehicle in the UK before you arrive in Germany, you should obtain a BFG Form 80. The BFG Form 80 ‘Special Import Certificate’ is required under British Army (Germany) Standing Orders before you can initially BFG register a car. Having ordered the new tax free vehicle, and when you are in possession of the new vehicle's chassis number, you should submit a BFG Form 60 (obtainable from your future unit) which is the application form for a BFG Form 80. BFG Form 60 should be sent to BFLO(G) Customs and Immigration, BFPO 40, who will issue the BFG Form 80. You must also ensure that the Type Approval Number is shown on the UK Export Log Book (Pink Log Book) supplied with your new tax free vehicle as you will need to supply it when applying for BFG Registration (see paragraph 4.07e below). If you are bringing in a UK registered tax paid vehicle with a V5 registration document, you should send part C of the V5 to the DVLA (do keep a copy for your own records) to obtain a certificate of Permanent Export (V561). You will need the V561 to BFG register your vehicle. BFG registration is free.
When you arrive at your new duty station, if you have driven over or intend to buy a motor vehicle when you are in Germany, you must familiarise yourself with Standing Order for the British Army in Germany Number 3213 which covers Registration and Operation of BFG Registered Vehicles in Germany. The Unit BFG Registration Officer of your new unit/organisation will be able to advise you on the correct procedures to follow.
Under the NATO Status of Forces Agreement the General Officer Commanding UKSC(G) is authorised to grant facilities in Germany for the operation of private vehicles. These facilities comprise:
a. The BFG registration of vehicles, caravans and trailers.
b. The issue of BFG Driving Permits.
c. Roadworthiness inspections.
BFG Vehicle Licensing Office
The BFG Vehicle Licensing Office (BFG VLO) is responsible for arranging all matters concerning BFG vehicle registration. Due to the volume of business involved, applications are dealt with only by post. There is currently no charge to the individual in obtaining BFG vehicle registration. BFG driving permits are issued by your Unit BFG Registration Officer (see para 4.07 below).
Vehicle Registration Obligations (See SO BA(G) No 3213)
Initial Importation. Provided you are in possession of a copy of your posting order and your Service identity card (and assuming your car documents are in order) then you should be allowed to import your vehicle into Germany unhindered.
Driving Licence
If you possess a current UK or EU National Driving Licence that is valid in Germany, you may drive a vehicle, which you are authorised to drive under such licence, for the period of 30 days from the date of your arrival in Germany. However, in accordance with Standing Orders, all drivers, after this first month, must obtain a BFG Driving Permit (BFG Form 57). In order to obtain this you will have to take, and pass, a written examination in European traffic laws and road signs. To assist you, you can obtain the booklet described in paragraph 4.01.
Vehicle Insurance
You must not use, or permit to be used, a vehicle in Germany unless there is a foreign policy of insurance in force against third party risks issued by a German Insurance Company in German, or by a British Insurance Company acceptable to the BFG Licensing authority. The only UK insurance companies whose policies are valid for BFG vehicles are shown in paragraph 4.07c. A person wishing to tow a caravan or trailer must ensure that their insurance policy covers the towed vehicle. NAAFI and your local insurance agents can arrange motor insurance cover.
Roadworthiness
You must not drive a BFG registered vehicle in Germany unless it is, in all respects, roadworthy. This includes having the appropriate dipping headlights for continental motoring. You must have your lights tested within 30 days of arrival in BFG. All applications for BFG registration concerning vehicles which are over 3 years old must also be accompanied by a Roadworthiness Inspection Report. Roadworthiness inspections and light tests are carried out under the Service arrangement free of charge. If your vehicle does not have a current BFG registration or a valid light test stamp on the BFG registration document, you are not permitted to purchase duty free fuel coupons (see below).
Fuel Coupons
BFG registration of your vehicle and issue of a BFG Vehicle Registration Card enables you to purchase duty free pre-paid coupons from your unit.
Vehicle Registration
The vehicle registration process in BFG is as follows:
a. A vehicle imported into Germany, which is currently registered with some other Licensing Authority and has a valid roadworthiness certificate and insurance, may be used under such registration for a period of not exceeding 30 days from the date of importation. It should be noted though, that you are not permitted to obtain or use BFG duty free fuel coupons before your vehicle is BFG registered. Caravans and trailers must also be registered separately from the towing vehicles. Mopeds are also classed as BFG vehicles.
b. The method of registration differs slightly from the UK system and all new arrivals must consult their Unit BFG Registration Officer and familiarise themselves with Standing Orders before making an application for BFG registration. Particular attention is drawn to the insurance requirements (see below).
c. A vehicle can only be BFG registered for the period for which insurance cover can be proved. This requires an International Green Card issued in respect of a policy valid in Germany or a cover note on the official form of the company, endorsed for use in Germany. The cover note can be valid for up to 60 days and must cover a minimum of 30 days. From a German Insurance Company you will need the insurance policy and schedule with evidence that the premium has been paid together with a Double White Card. Green Cards from German companies are not acceptable as they do not cover driving in Germany. BFG registration will only be given for the period of the insurance cover provided. The only UK Insurance Companies offering insurance cover to BFG members are: CGNU, Frizzells
(CSMA members only), Highway Motor Policies at Lloyds, NATO Cars Insurance Services, Ford Insure (underwritten by CGNU) and Privilege for certain Renault and Nissan vehicles. You can use any German Insurance company. Persons wishing to tow a caravan or other trailers must ensure that they are covered in their vehicle policy.
d. On arrival in Germany you no longer require your UK road fund licence. Therefore it will be of financial benefit to you to return it to the appropriate motor vehicle taxation authorities, in order to obtain a refund. Refund forms are available from Forces Post Offices. (Only whole months refunded).
e. When applying to the BFG VLO for BFG registration, in addition to the Log Book and proof of insurance as above, you will also need to produce your BFG Form 80 Special Import Certificate, the Type Approval Number of the car and your Driving License Number. Vehicle owners bringing a vehicle in from outside the EU (mainly Cyprus or N. America) are advised to check whether their vehicle is EU Type Approved, or what needs to be done to enable it to be inspected and become EU Type Approved.
Driving Rules for Motorists
Conduct on the roads in Belgium, Germany and Holland is dictated by law. Drivers of these countries expect these laws to be obeyed and take action on this assumption.
The following are a few basic rules:
a. Keep to the right hand side of the roadway. The use of the left lane is permitted for overtaking only. This also applies when driving on autobahns.
b. If not indicated by traffic signs, traffic from the right has priority. Cyclists proceeding along a cycle track have the same priority as drivers on the road. Thus a driver turning across a cycle track must look both ways to see if a cyclist is approaching and must give way. This is particularly true to cyclists approaching from behind who must be allowed to proceed before the motorist turns.
c. When turning left priority must be given to oncoming traffic. Before turning left:
(1) Look in your rear view mirror.
(2) Signal your intention well before the junction.
(3) Look in your rear view mirror again.
(4) Filter to the centre of the road (when possible).
(5) Keep off the tracks of rail traffic.
(6) Give priority to oncoming traffic and then complete your turn.
d. Drive only at a speed, which allows you to be in constant control of your vehicle. Keep an adequate distance from the vehicle in front. Should visibility be reduced to less than 50m as a result of fog, falling snow or rain, you must not drive faster than 50 kph (31 mph) where a lower speed limit is not in operation.
e. The speed limits in Germany (if not other wise indicated) are:
Built-up areas............................50 kph (31 mph)
Outside built-up areas...................100 kph (62 mph)
On autobahns (recommended maximum speed 130 kph (81 mph)
However, in other continental countries the rules are different. Before leaving UK you should consult the AA or RAC and find out the speed limits for all the countries you are going to drive through on your way to Germany. Additionally, there is the book “Motoring in Europe” which gives good sound advice on a number of motoring topics within Europe. Contact your new unit if you would like a copy sent to you.
f. The minimum lighting from the onset of darkness, or when weather conditions demand it, is DRIVING LIGHTS, which means dipped headlights. Driving on sidelights is forbidden and is a fineable offence. The law states that drivers must drive with dipped headlights in rain, snow, fog, poor visibility or darkness. If rear fog lamps are fitted these must only be operated if visibility falls below 50 metres. If you have only one rear fog lamp fitted this must be positioned on the left of the centre line of the vehicle. All vehicles first registered after 1 Jan 91 must have at least one such light fitted.
g. When starting off from a stationary position, changing traffic lane or direction, or intending to overtake, then this must be clearly signalled by use of the vehicles direction indicators.
h. Pedestrians using, or clearly intending to use, a pedestrian crossing must be given priority. Do not halt on a pedestrian crossing, or overtake another vehicle which halts in front of a pedestrian crossing, in order to allow pedestrians to cross.
i. Pedestrians have right of way as you turn at a crossing EVEN THOUGH THE LIGHTS ARE IN YOUR FAVOUR.
j. Lane discipline is strictly enforced in Germany. Once in a lane keep in it until it is safe to move out. Crossing a continuous white line when changing lanes is an offence.
k. Be very careful in heavy rain as roads on the continent are more susceptible to aquaplaning conditions than roads in UK.
Legal Requirements for Cars
You will, of course, need your car to be registered and insured but you will also need:
a. An authorised warning triangle of an approved German pattern (see note 1).
b. Unopened first aid kit box (to DIN 13164 (a German government standard) (see note 1), which also contains 2 pairs of disposable rubber or plastic gloves.
c. Safety belts for the front seats and, if your car was first taken into use after 1 May 1979, safety belts for rear seats (see note 2).
d. Steering lock.
e. External rear view mirrors (see note 3).
f. One rear fog light on the left hand rear of the vehicle or one on each side of the rear of the
vehicle.
g. You are also advised to carry a tow rope, fire extinguisher, and spare fuel can (5 ltrs).
Notes
(1) You are strongly advised not to buy these items before arriving in Germany as it is difficult
to obtain items of an approved pattern outside Germany.
(2) It is mandatory for drivers and all passengers to wear a seat belt whilst driving in Germany
and the Low Countries. Children under 12 years of age and less than 150cm tall must be
carried in an officially approved child restraint suitable for the size and weight of the
individual child.
(3) Two rear lights may be fitted.
There is a legal requirement for you to carry the following documents with you when driving:
a. Proof of insurance.
b. Identity card (military or family (civilian)).
c. Driving licence and BFG Driving Permit.
d. BFG Form 73 (Vehicle Registration Card).
e. DM50 (Euro equivalent).
Legal Requirements for Bicycles
A bicycle must have:
a. Brakes fitted at the front and rear of the bicycle operating on the front wheels or rims. The rear brakes can be of the back pedal type.
b. Dynamo operated lights (3 watt), interconnected so that the front (white) light and rear (red) light can be switched on together. They must not be able to be used independently of each other. The front beam must be angled down so that at 5 meters it is only half the height it was when it left the light.
c. Rear reflectors (red) which may be positioned in one unit with the rear (red) light.
d. An additional large red reflector marked with a ‘Z’ (for Zusatzruckstrahler) must also be fitted. You can only buy this reflector in Germany.
e. Front reflector (white) facing forward.
f. Pedal reflectors (yellow) facing front and rear.
g. Either:
(1) Two spoke reflectors diametrically opposed on front and rear wheels, or
(2) A white reflective strip forming a continuous ring on the walls of both front and back tyres.
h. A bell.
Rules for Pedestrians
Pedestrians must use footpaths. The roadway may only be used on streets without a footpath. Within a built up area pedestrians may walk on the right or left side of the roadway; outside built-up areas they must walk on the left side facing oncoming traffic. Roads should be crossed at a proper place by the shortest route. Pay attention to road traffic before crossing. Look first to the left and then to the right. It is safer to use pedestrian crossings or to cross at crossroads or junctions. At pedestrian crossings it is illegal to cross when the pedestrian signal is at red. However, once on the crossing, keep going. If the pedestrian traffic lights change to amber or red there is sufficient time to clear the crossing as the lights are phased to allow this.
Towing of Trailers or Caravans
The maximum speed limit when towing trailers or caravans on all roads in Germany is 80 kph (50 mph), unless a lower speed limit is in force.
Rules for Cyclist
Cyclists must ride in single file. Cycle paths must be used when provided. When crossing the road from one cycle path to another, no other traffic should be endangered or impeded. When turning left, priority must be given to oncoming traffic and a cyclist must remain to the right of a motor vehicle turning in the same direction. Cyclists over the age of sixteen years may transport children under the age of six years, but only if the bicycle has been specifically adapted for this purpose.
Traffic Accidents
Unfortunately traffic accidents can happen to you just the same as everybody else; so if a traffic accident happens the priorities are:
a. Stop immediately.
b. Prevent others being involved (put out warning triangle(s) and, if available, flashing yellow lamp(s)).
c. Secure access to the scene of the accident (if the road is completely blocked this may not be possible).
d. Take care of the injured.
e. Call the Police. This is a legal requirement.
f. Obtain assistance.
g. Insist on “no smoking” if there is a spillage of fuel.
In order to prevent others becoming involved, warning is essential and must take the form of warning triangles and/or flashing yellow lamps. Failure to do this could be an offence under the law “Endangering Life”. Siting of these warnings are important and depends on local circumstances, e.g. an accident round a corner needs warning signs before the corner. On the autobahn a warning is needed about 200 metres away because of the speed at which vehicles are travelling. Warning signs should lead traffic away from the accident. The furthest sign being on the edge of the road, the sign nearest the accident being a sufficient distance out from the roadside to indicate the extent of the obstruction to other traffic. Failure to warn other road users is an offence in German law.
Care of the injured includes movement of the injured person from the road on to the verge, but knowledge of first aid is essential before taking this action as movement could cause greater injury to the injured person. Keep the injured warm.
Calling for assistance requires a knowledge of available facilities. On the autobahn the siting of emergency telephones is shown by small black arrow heads on the wayside distance posts and they are not normally more than 2km apart. Elsewhere a local person will know the nearest telephone, or a passing motorist may help by taking a message.
On two way roads a driver must pull to the nearside to facilitate the passage of emergency vehicles. On the autobahn traffic must pull to the left and right to allow the middle passage to be used by vehicles with special priority.
Traffic accident procedures for Service vehicles are covered in Standing Orders. The driver of a BFG vehicle involved in an accident must stop and if any of the following circumstances apply he must report to, and await the arrival of, the civil police:
a. In case of death or injury.
b. In case where the cost of damage to any of the parties exceeds DM1,000.
c. When any of the parties involved insists on calling the civil police, inform the RMP.
d. When in doubt inform the civil police and your unit authorities as soon as possible.
NOTE: When civil police are called and language difficulties arise, call the RMP.
In cases where the civil police are not called, the BFG driver must exchange names, addresses and insurance details with other persons involved. Note to, that a driver is “involved” in a traffic accident when through his actions, other people have a collision.
Whilst it is the duty of everyone to assist police investigations a driver should consider carefully before making a statement admitting liability. A driver of a Service vehicle is forbidden to make such a statement, and must comply with the service procedure for accidents. A BFG driver should know the terms of his insurance policy and bear in mind the need to notify the accident to his insurers.
Minor Traffic Offences
Under German law, the German police and traffic wardens are empowered to warn an alleged offender for a minor infringement of German law, such as in the cases of slightly exceeding the speed limit or for jaywalking, and to charge a warning fee of between DM5 to DM50 (Euro equivalent). The procedure is for the German policeman to warn the alleged offender of the offences and to invite him to pay an on the spot fine. If you are without money at the time, you have up to one week to pay. The warning is complete if the fine is paid immediately.
Members of the forces and entitled civilians, when driving BFG registered vehicles may, if they wish, pay the fine. They have the right, however, to decline to pay. The policeman then records the necessary particulars and reports the offence to the German Public Prosecutor. This alternative action may well result in heavier punishment.
German Civil Police are also empowered to impose “on the spot” driving bans for certain traffic offences. When a driver has an “on the spot” ban it is effective from the moment the policeman removes the licence.
If you are confused or unsure of the action that you should take do not be afraid to ask the civil police for advice, and report the incident to your unit authorities as soon as possible. Members of the forces, dependants and entitled civilians are advised to be polite and courteous to the German civil police at all times.