Ensuring Quality of Live

Germans treasure their free time and make sure that leisure activities are accessible, affordable and fun. Whether by air, sea, rail, or road, getting to vacation or tourism destinations within and outside of Germany is simple and stress-free. Sports facilities and health clubs exist everywhere and cater to all needs. Outdoor recreational opportunities are located in beautiful settings close to major cities.

Over 12,000 festivals are held annually, spas and getaways dot the landscape, and farmers’ markets and second-hand exchanges welcome both the culinary and the curious. World-class cinematic, theatrical, and musical offerings are available to match any taste, schedule or budget. 6,155 world-class museums and 33 UNESCO World Heritage sites are at hand to educate and delight visitors.

Germany has different categories of licenses for operating heavy trucks, cars, and motorcycles. Foreign driver's licenses are usually recognized by the German authorities. However, a national driver's license must first be translated if it was not issued by one of the European member states or a country belonging to the European Economic Area (EEA).

German translations can be performed by the German automobile clubs (most common is the ADAC) or internationally recognized automobile clubs of the issuing state. A translation is not required for international driver's licenses. The Federal Republic of Germany waives the need for a translation for some countries (Andorra, Hong Kong, Monaco, New Zealand, San Marino, Switzerland, and Senegal).

Foreign driver's licenses not issued in a country belonging to the EU or EEA only retain their validity for six months after the driver has taken up residence in Germany. After this period, permission to drive expires, and a German driver's license must be obtained.

A prerequisite for the registration of a motor vehicle in Germany is a motor vehicle third party liability insurance policy (Kraftfahrzeug-Haftpflichtversicherung), which is mandatory. The use of a motor vehicle is not covered by general private liability insurance, which, unlike the motor vehicle third party liability insurance policy, is optional.

However, private liability insurance is also recommended as it insures the policy holder and his or her family against claims for damages. As the liability of private persons is not limited under German law, the importance of private liability insurance should not be underestimated and is generally advisable.