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Car purchase, car rental, traffic rules & Co.

Car hire is a practical way to get around on holiday. Before choosing a rental car company, travellers should check the included services, such as insurance coverage. Read the rental contract carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises. If you want to buy a vehicle in another EU country you should check the dealer for seriousness. You also need to buy transit plates that allow you to transfer the car to your home country.

Further information on these topics as well as on traffic rules in Germany, car accident and winter tires within Europe can be found within the following articles.

Traffic fines from abroad

We explain where fines can be imposed abroad. Because: EU fines over 70 euros can also be collected in Germany.

A green car drives along a coast. You can see the blue sea on the right hand side.

Tips for hiring a car abroad in the EU

Information about renting a car in Europe: Online reservation, rental contract, handover protocol, accident, fines etc.

A person is holding a car key.

Car purchase abroad

We explain how to avoid problems when buying a car in another EU country and what you need to know about vehicle registration and transfer.

Cars on a highway.

Driving a car in Germany

We give you information about traffic and safety rules in Germany, such as speed limits and controls or the rescue lane on German motorways.

Electric vehicles in Europe

We explain what you need to know when buying an electric car across borders, which charging providers are available abroad and the benefits for electric car drivers in each country.

A young man is calling someone with his smartphone. In the background is a car accident.

Car accident in Europe

Keeping a level head after an accident is not that easy. Especially not, if the accident happens abroad. We provide information about the necessary steps and give practical advice.

A red car stands on the roadside in a snow-covered landscape.

Winter tires within Europe

In the EU countries, it depends on the weather, the season and the traffic signs whether winter tires are mandatory or not.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Innovation Council and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Executive Agency (EISMEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

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