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German Drivers: Know the Risks of Carrying a Driver's License Copy

A driver's license copy can be useful, but it's crucial to understand the legal risks. Know when police can seize your license and how to avoid fines.

, and Administrator

2025 October 1 . 10:03 AM

1 min read

This picture shows a few buildings and trees and we see few vehicles moving on the road and we see... — This picture shows a few buildings and trees and we see few vehicles moving on the road and we see sign boards and traffic signal lights to the poles and a blue cloudy sky and we see few caution signs painted on the roads.

German Drivers: Know the Risks of Carrying a Driver's License Copy

Drivers in Germany should always carry their driver's license to avoid fines and potential license revocation. Not having it results in a €10 warning fine. However, carrying a copy has its own legal implications.

A copy of the driver's license can help coordinate suspension periods with work or family commitments. It can also serve as evidence of the license's existence. However, it must not appear as an original to avoid suspicion of forgery, which is a criminal offense under § 267 StGB.

The driver's license authority (Fahrerlaubnisbehörde) is responsible for revoking licenses due to false evidence. They issue a formal administrative act, and if necessary, the case may proceed to court. In cases of suspected drug consumption, the license can be provisionally revoked before a court ruling according to § 111a StPO.

If the driver's license is not present, a warning fine is issued, but the license is not immediately revoked. The police must initiate a judicial procedure to withdraw the license, allowing the driver to continue driving until a decision is made. If the license is present, officers may seize it immediately, preventing the driver from continuing to drive. In cases of suspected serious offenses like alcohol or drug consumption, officers may immediately confiscate the license.

Carrying a driver's license is not only a legal requirement but also crucial for avoiding fines and potential license revocation. While a copy can be helpful, it must not be used as an original. Drivers should be aware of the legal procedures and consequences involved.