Germany Bans Point Trading, Doubles Violation Deadlines, June 18

Germany’s updated Straßenverkehrsgesetz takes effect July 1, 2026, with sweeping changes to traffic enforcement. The law bans the illegal practice of transferring traffic violation points to other drivers for payment, imposes fines up to 30,000 euros on brokers, and doubles the prosecution deadline from three to six months. Authorities also gain legal authority for automated parking enforcement and digital driver licenses.

Point Trading Now Illegal With Heavy Penalties

Starting July 1, drivers can no longer pay third parties to accept their traffic violation points in Flensburg. Making false statements to authorities about who committed a violation, or offering such services, now carries fines up to 30,000 euros. The law targets commercial brokers who profited by matching traffic offenders with willing point-takers who held valid licenses but rarely drove.

Prosecution Window Expands to Six Months

Traffic authorities now have six months instead of three to pursue violations. This doubles the enforcement timeline, giving officials more time to investigate cases and issue fines. Drivers may receive penalty notices later than before, but authorities gain capacity to handle more complex cases.

Scancars Authorized for Automated Parking Checks

The law creates a legal framework for automated parking enforcement vehicles equipped with cameras. These Scancars scan license plates to detect no-parking violations and expired parking permits. The technology has operated successfully in other European countries and is now legal in Germany after pilot projects.

Digital Driver License Framework Established

The law lays groundwork for digital driver licenses accessible via smartphone apps. The traditional plastic card remains valid. Technical infrastructure for the digital system is still under development, but the legal foundation is now in place for future rollout.

Final Thoughts

Germany’s traffic law reform closes a loophole that allowed drivers to escape consequences by paying others to accept their points. The extended prosecution window and automated parking enforcement give authorities stronger tools to ensure traffic safety compliance.

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