Overview
- Section 23(1c) of the road traffic regulations prohibits operating or carrying any device designed to indicate or disrupt enforcement, covering dedicated detectors, navigation units with alerts, and smartphone apps.
- Being caught with a ready‑to‑use device typically results in a €75 fine and one point in Flensburg.
- A 2023 ruling by the Karlsruhe higher regional court confirmed that passenger‑run blitzer apps are unlawful if the driver benefits, and the driver in the case was fined €100.
- ADAC explains that a device is considered operational if it can be used during driving without significant effort, even from a pocket or glovebox, but not if still sealed in retail packaging.
- Police can seize dedicated radar detectors, though confiscating smartphones or satnavs is more difficult, and rules elsewhere in Europe vary from strict penalties in France and Greece to legality in Croatia and Romania.