Guide · Germany
Germany's THC limit for drivers
Since 22 August 2024 Germany has a fixed THC limit for drivers: 3.5 nanograms per millilitre of blood serum. Driving at or above it is an administrative offence (section 24a(1a) of the Road Traffic Act).
With alcohol, a separate and stricter offence
Reaching the THC limit and having drunk alcohol is its own offence, with a maximum fine of €5,000 instead of €3,000.
Novice drivers and under-21s: not at all
During the probationary period and before turning 21 there is an absolute ban with no threshold (section 24c).
Standard fines
| Offence | Fine | Driving ban |
|---|---|---|
| THC 3.5 ng/ml or more (first time) | €500 | 1 month |
| … with one prior entry | €1,000 | 3 months |
| … with several prior entries | €1,500 | 3 months |
| THC 3.5 ng/ml or more plus alcohol | €1,000 | 1 month |
| … with one prior entry | €1,500 | 3 months |
| … with several prior entries | €2,000 | 3 months |
| Novice driver / under 21 (§ 24c) | €250 | — |
Exception: prescribed cannabis
The limit and the mixed-use rule do not apply where the THC comes from the intended use of a medicine prescribed for a specific illness. The general duty to drive only when fit to do so still applies.
Sources
- § 24a StVG — 0,5-Promille-Grenze, THC
- § 24c StVG — Fahranfänger und unter 21
- § 25 StVG — Fahrverbot
- Bußgeldkatalog-Verordnung (BKatV)
- BGBl. 2024 I Nr. 266 — Einführung des Grenzwerts
This is not legal advice.