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Driving on the Autobahn: the most important rules
1 min read · Updated on October 17, 2026
You travel fast on the Autobahn – that’s why special rules apply here.
Vereinfachte Erklärung zum Lernen – keine Rechtsberatung. Verbindlich ist die Straßenverkehrs-Ordnung (StVO).
Merging
Use the acceleration lane to match the speed of traffic. Traffic on the motorway has priority.
Keep right
As a rule, drive on the right. The left lanes are for overtaking, not for cruising.
Forbidden on the Autobahn
These things are off limits:
- U-turns and reversing
- Stopping on the hard shoulder (except in an emergency)
- Overtaking on the right
- Walking across the carriageway
Keep going
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