Germany
Safety and security
Terrorism
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorism in Germany
Terrorists are very likely to try and carry out attacks in Germany.
Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in public places frequented by foreign nationals such as:
- restaurants
- markets
- shopping centres
- places of worship and religious sites, including synagogues
Recent terrorism attacks in Germany include:
- in 2020, one person was killed and another seriously injured in a knife attack in Dresden city centre
- in 2020, 8 people were killed and 5 injured in 2 mass shootings in shisha bars in Hanau
- in 2019, 2 people were shot and killed close to a synagogue in the eastern German city of Halle
Crime
Protecting your belongings
Crime levels are similar to the UK. Take sensible precautions to avoid mugging, bag snatching and pickpocketing. Be particularly vigilant at airports, railway stations and crowded public gatherings. Do not leave valuables unattended.
Passport theft
If your passport has been lost or stolen, get a police report from the nearest police station.
Laws and cultural differences
Personal ID
You don’t have to carry your passport with you in Germany. However, if you’re asked to show your passport and don’t have it with you, police may escort you to where your passport is being kept so that you can show it to them.
Outdoor activities and adventure tourism
Skiing and avalanches are a risk in some areas. Always check the local snow and weather conditions when you arrive. Read more information about avalanche risk from the European Avalanche Warning Service.
Transport risks
Road travel
If you are planning to drive in Germany, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC Germany guide.
Licences and permits
You need either a 1968 international driving permit (IDP) or a valid UK driving licence to drive in Germany. The 1949 IDP is not accepted anymore. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel. If you’re driving a vehicle that doesn’t belong to you, you may also need written permission from the registered owner. The minimum age for driving a car in Germany is 18.
Driving a British car abroad
You may need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK. These have replaced GB stickers. Check the guidance on displaying number plates if you are driving outside the UK.
The German Federal Transport Ministry has more information on the validity of non-German driving licences.
If you live in Germany, check the Living in Germany guide for information on requirements for residents.
Driving regulations
Some inner city areas have an environmental zone (‘Umweltzone’). Only vehicles that meet specific exhaust emission standards can enter. See the German Environment Agency and Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection for more information. It is illegal to take part in motor vehicle races or rallies on German roads.