No, driving with interior lights on in Germany is not explicitly prohibited, but it may violate StVO §17(1) if it impairs visibility or distracts other road users. The Federal Ministry of Transport (BMVI) emphasizes that interior lighting must not compromise safety, aligning with EU 2026 vehicle lighting directives.
Key Regulations for Driving With Interior Lights On in Germany
- StVO §17(1) Compliance: Interior lights must not impair the driver’s vision or blind other road users, per the Road Traffic Regulations (Straßenverkehrs-Ordnung).
- BMVI Guidelines (2026 Update): New EU vehicle lighting standards require interior lighting to be dimmed or off when driving, particularly in urban areas or during nighttime operation.
- Local Enforcement Discretion: Police (Polizei) may issue fines (€20–€100) if interior lights are deemed a hazard, especially in tunnels or under poor visibility conditions.
German courts have upheld penalties for distracted driving, including cases where interior lighting contributed to unsafe conditions. The Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA) monitors compliance, though no specific statute bans interior lights outright. Drivers should prioritize minimizing distractions to avoid liability under StVG §1 (negligent operation).