Driving license ban in Germany. Traffic fines in Germany. Losing your driving license in Germany can sometimes be permanent. Many people think losing their license is just a temporary punishment, but in some cases, it can never be returned. Serious offenses like drunk driving, leaving the scene of an accident, or dangerous driving can lead to a lifetime ban. What exact actions can cause this severe penalty? Here’s an explanation of when a driving license can be taken away forever.
Lifetime driving license ban in Germany
In Germany, certain actions can lead to either a temporary driving ban or the permanent loss of your license. While traffic laws are often seen as lenient, some violations carry much stricter penalties than just a fine.
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A temporary driving ban is straightforward—it ends after the set period, and your license is automatically returned with no extra steps. Common reasons for such a ban include speeding far over the limit, running red lights, or exceeding the blood alcohol limit.
But under what circumstances can your driving license be permanently revoked in Germany? Here’s what you need to know about lifetime bans.
Difference between driving ban and having your license taken away
The length of a driving ban in Germany depends on the severity of the offense and can range from one to six months. First-time offenders even have the option to decide when to hand over their license to the citation office. However, repeat offenders lose this privilege for future bans.
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Losing your driving license entirely is a much more serious consequence. In this case, the license is canceled completely, at least for a set time. Once the ban period ends, you’ll need to renew your license, which often requires passing a medical-psychological examination (MPU). According to ADAC, this process can cost over €2,000, not including any fines.
The reasons for disqualification are outlined in Section 69 of the German Criminal Code (StGB) and are fairly straightforward. A court can impose a lifetime driving ban for offenses involving alcohol, drugs, Illegal Street racing, leaving the scene of an accident, or endangering others in road traffic.
When can you lose your driving license in Germany?
Section 69a, paragraph 1 of the German Criminal Code (StGB) allows for a lifetime driving license suspension. In these cases, even passing an MPU test does not restore the license.
The law states: “A driving ban may be imposed for life if it is foreseeable that the maximum period of the ban will not be enough to eliminate the danger posed by the offender. If the offender does not hold a driving license, only a ban on applying for one shall be imposed.”
When does the court take such a drastic step? According to Autozeitung, lifetime driving license suspensions can happen in cases like:
- Ignoring existing driving bans.
- Repeatedly driving under the influence of alcohol.
- Seriously reckless or disturbed behavior while driving.
- Using a car as a weapon or tool to commit a crime.
Medical reasons can also lead to a lifetime ban. If a driver’s physical or mental condition makes them unsafe to drive, the court may permanently revoke their license.