In 2026, Germany continues to apply a dual penalty system where both the driver and the transport company are held accountable. The main focus of enforcement has shifted to compliance with driving and rest times, tachograph operation, and cargo safety.
Key Changes and Fines:
· Violations of Driving and Rest Regulations: Exceeding the permissible driving time by more than 2 hours can result in a fine of €60 for the driver and €180 for the company for every subsequent 30-minute period. Failure to take a mandatory short break can cost the carrier up to €180.
· Tachograph Handling: The lack of timely data download is one of the most expensive offences. The driver's fine is €250, while the company's fine can reach €750. Any manipulation of the device is classified as a criminal offence.
· Overloading: Exceeding the permissible total weight by more than 20% leads to a fine of €425 and 1 penalty point in the Flensburg register for the driver, as well as a sanction of up to €850 for the employer.
· Mobile Phone Use: The penalty is fixed at €150 and 1 point in the driving aptitude register.
Control Specifics: The police actively use mobile inspection units with portable scales and tachograph readers. In states like Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia, targeted surveillance programmes on motorways allow for offences to be detected almost in real time. It is critical for foreign carriers to note that Germany has a blood alcohol limit of 0.5‰ for truck drivers.