Fines for Speeding: How the Penalty System Works for Speeding Offenses in Germany

A brief moment of inattention and you’re already going too fast. What many drivers underestimate: speeding violations are among the most common traffic offenses. The consequences: a fine, penalty points in Flensburg, or in the worst case, loss of your driver’s license. In this guide, you’ll learn everything about speeding fines: which penalties apply within city limits and outside of them, what influences the amount of the fine, and how you can be warned in time and legally.

Why Speeding Violations Are Taken So Seriously

Excessive speed is one of the main causes of serious accidents. That’s why speeding is consistently monitored in Germany — with stationary and mobile speed cameras, especially in hazardous areas, near schools, or construction zones. Repeat offenders are punished more severely.

Sanctions are based on the Bußgeldkatalog (Fine Catalog, BKatV), which clearly defines what consequences apply for each km/h over the limit.

Fine, Points, Driving Ban – The Three Main Penalties

A speeding violation can lead to the following consequences, depending on its severity:

  • Fine: Monetary penalty depending on km/h over the limit

  • Points: Entry into the driver’s suitability register in Flensburg

  • Driving ban: For serious or repeat violations (usually 1 month)

The amount of the penalty depends on whether you were speeding within city limits or outside of them.

Overview: Typical Speeding Fines (As of 2024)

Within City Limits

km/h over limit

Fine (€)

Points

Driving Ban

up to 10

30 €

11–15

50 €

16–20

70 €

21–25

115 €

1

26–30

180 €

1

1 month

31–40

260 €

2

1 month

41–50

400 €

2

1 month

over 50

from 560 €

2

1 month

 

Outside City Limits

km/h over limit

Fine (€)

Points

Driving Ban

up to 10

20 €

11–15

40 €

16–20

60 €

21–25

100 €

1

26–30

150 €

1

1 month

31–40

200 €

1

1 month

41–50

320 €

2

1 month

over 50

from 480 €

2

1 month

 

What Affects the Amount of the Fine?

The fine depends not only on how much you exceeded the limit, but also on:

  • Location of the offense: Stricter rules apply within city limits

  • Repeat offenses: Those caught speeding by more than 26 km/h twice within 12 months face higher fines and a driving ban

  • Special zones: Higher penalties often apply in construction zones, school areas, or traffic-calmed areas

  • Vehicle type: Truck drivers are sanctioned more strictly

The Point System in Flensburg – When It Gets Critical

Since the 2014 reform:

  • 1 point for serious traffic offenses

  • 2 points for particularly serious violations (e.g., driving ban)

  • At 8 points: driver’s license is revoked

Point reduction:

1 point can be voluntarily removed by attending a driver training seminar (only if you have a maximum of 5 points).

Points expire after 2, 5, or 10 years depending on the severity of the offense.

A “point balance” in Flensburg can build up quickly — especially for commuters or frequent drivers.

How to Avoid Speeding Fines – Legally and Proactively

The best strategy: drive attentively and within the rules. Many speed cameras are in known spots, yet drivers still miss them because they are distracted or unsure of the current limit.

Here are a few tips:

  • Know speed limits: 100 km/h is not always guaranteed, even on rural roads or at night

  • Watch for signs: Be extra cautious in construction zones, near schools, or town entrances

  • Mind your average speed: In section control zones, your average speed over a stretch of road is what counts, not a single moment

The CO-DRIVER: Your Assistant for Avoiding Speeding Violations

The OOONO CO-DRIVER is a small, smart device that discreetly informs you in real-time about:

  • Accident and danger zones

  • Traffic jams and speed changes

  • Speed camera locations

What makes the CO-DRIVER special:

  • No distraction: No screen, no typing — just a sound and light signal

  • Automatically active: After the first connection with your smartphone, it runs in the background

  • Usable across the EU: Perfect for holiday trips or commuters

  • Legally safe: It works passively with GPS data, not radar or laser detection

If you want to avoid speeding fines without constantly checking your phone or being distracted by apps, this is a meaningful and traffic-safe solution.

Conclusion: Drive Mindfully to Avoid Points and Fines

A speeding fine can happen quickly, often not out of intent but due to distraction. By staying informed, paying attention to traffic signs, and using smart aids like the CO-DRIVER, you can drive more relaxed, safer, and within the law.

That way, you protect not only your wallet but also your point record — and keep your driver’s license in the long term.