Cycling in Germany: Rules You Need to Know

Germany is undoubtedly a cyclist’s paradise. From urban commuting to weekend trips, bicycles are a part of every aspect of life. However, to enjoy this freedom safely, there are important traffic regulations (Straßenverkehrs-Ordnung – StVO) and technical equipment standards (Straßenverkehrs-Zulassungs-Ordnung – StVZO) that you must adhere to for your own safety and the safety of others. Failure to comply with these rules can lead to significant fines (Bußgeld). Here is everything you need to know about cycling in Germany.

The Must-Have Equipment for Your Bicycle

Before you enter traffic, ensure your bicycle has the legally required basic equipment. Every bicycle must have two independent brakes that can effectively stop both the front and rear wheels. A clearly audible bell to warn other road users in a timely manner is also mandatory. A lighting system, which can be battery-powered or dynamo-powered, is critically important, especially in the dark and in poor visibility conditions. This system consists of a white headlight at the front and a red taillight at the back. Flashing lights (with the exception of the rear light) are generally forbidden; steady lights must be used. To increase visibility, the bicycle must have a white front reflector, a large red rear reflector, yellow reflectors on both pedals (facing forward and backward), and at least two yellow spoke reflectors (“cat’s eyes”) per wheel or continuous white reflective stripes on the tire sidewalls. The absence of any of these components can result in a fine.

Basic Rules in Traffic

In Germany, there are clear traffic rules for cyclists. If you see a round or square blue sign with a white bicycle symbol on the roadside, you are legally obligated to use that bike path (Radwegbenutzungspflicht). Where there is no bike path, you must ride on the far right side of the road with car traffic. With the exception of children, riding on the sidewalk is strictly forbidden. However, on pedestrian paths with the supplementary sign “Radfahrer frei” (Cyclists Welcome), you may ride as long as you give absolute priority to pedestrians and proceed at walking speed. Although wearing a helmet is not a legal requirement for adults in Germany, it is strongly recommended for personal safety, especially in dense city traffic and on tours.

Traffic Signs, Turns, and Special Situations

As part of the traffic rules, all traffic lights and signs are also binding for cyclists. Some intersections have special, smaller traffic lights for cyclists, which must be obeyed. If there is no such light, you must follow the main traffic lights for vehicles. Communication is essential for a safe ride; therefore, you must clearly indicate your direction with your hand before turning (right arm for right, left arm for left). While entering one-way streets from the wrong direction is prohibited, cyclists are exempt from this rule if the supplementary sign “Radfahrer frei” is posted at the entrance to the street. Additionally, two cyclists are generally allowed to ride side-by-side as long as they do not obstruct traffic. However, in heavy traffic or on narrow roads, you must ride in a single file.

Alcohol, Mobile Phones, and Headphones

Riding a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol is a very serious offense in Germany with severe consequences. A blood alcohol level of 1.6 per mille (‰) or more is considered a criminal offense (Straftat) and can result in the revocation of your driver’s license, high fines, and even imprisonment. Even with a lower level, such as 0.3‰, you are committing an offense if you show signs of impairment related to alcohol consumption. Holding and using a mobile phone while riding is also strictly forbidden; for purposes like navigation, you can use your phone in a holder fixed to the bicycle. Similarly, listening to music with headphones that cover both ears and prevent you from hearing ambient sounds (like horns, sirens, etc.) is prohibited. Listening with one earbud or at a low volume that allows you to hear your surroundings is permitted.

Special Rules for Children

Different rules apply to children depending on their age: Children up to the age of 8 must ride on the sidewalk. An accompanying person over the age of 16 may also ride on the sidewalk with the child. Children between the ages of 8 and 10 may choose to ride on the sidewalk, the bike path, or the road. Children who have reached the age of 10 are subject to the same rules as adults and must use the bike path or the road.