No, applying makeup while driving is prohibited under German traffic law as it constitutes a distraction offense under § 1(2) StVO (Straßenverkehrs-Ordnung). The Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMVI) classifies such behavior as a breach of the duty of care, risking fines up to €100 and one point in the Flensburg register. Courts have consistently upheld convictions where drivers were observed applying cosmetics, even if no accident occurred.
Key Regulations for Applying Makeup While Driving in Germany
- Distraction Offense (§ 1(2) StVO): The law mandates full attention to traffic. Applying makeup—regardless of duration—violates this principle, as it involves manual, visual, and cognitive diversion.
- Local Enforcement by Police: State authorities (e.g., Polizei Bayern or Polizei NRW) issue fines based on observable behavior, often corroborated by dashcam footage or witness statements. Repeat offenders face escalated penalties.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The BMVI’s forthcoming Verkehrsrecht 2026 draft proposes stricter penalties for “secondary activities,” including makeup application, aligning with EU-wide distracted driving initiatives.