Overview

• The Hessian Administrative Court of Appeal confirmed that driving with a niqab is prohibited without an exemption permit, citing public safety concerns.
• This ruling upheld a previous decision by the Administrative Court of Darmstadt on the matter.
• The court emphasized that face veils impede reliable identification, particularly in speed camera photos, and upheld the ban as constitutional.
• The plaintiff argued that the ban violated her religious freedom, but the court ruled that safety and identification needs take precedence.
• The Darmstadt Regional Council must now issue a final decision on the plaintiff’s exemption application, following the court's refusal to allow further appeals.