Lawyer warns urgentlyIs THAT in your car? Then there is a risk of a fine of 10,000 euros

March 12, 2026 around 2:40 p.m Clock

A fine of up to 10,000 euros: This should never be left in the car

If you travel by car in Germany, you always have to have a few things with you. This includes the driver's license, vehicle registration document and documents for modifications. A warning triangle, a safety vest and a valid first-aid kit are also mandatory. If these items are missing during an inspection, you may face minor fines. But it can get really expensive very quickly!

This is true when transporting prohibited items in the car. Attorney Dr. Philipp Hammerich warns at stern.de (part of RTL) in particular about certain knives. Anyone who has them unsecured, i.e. within easy reach, in the car is violating the gun law. This also applies if the knife is in the glove compartment. The prohibited weapons include all one-hand knives and knives with a fixed blade over twelve centimeters long.

Drivers easily fall into the knife trap

It is particularly easy to fall into the “one-hand knife trap”. These are knives that can be opened with one hand and have a lockable blade. The blade length doesn't matter. Anyone who has to transport such a knife needs a “legitimate interest”. According to the law, this is the case if you need it for your job, customs or sport. Otherwise, the knife must be placed in a lockable container.

The all-clear is given for normal pocket knives, because the blade of most models of these popular all-purpose tools measures around seven centimeters.

Other things don't belong in the car either. These include dangerous substances such as explosives, lots of fireworks or large amounts of fuel outside the tank. Firearms, unsecured animals or objects that obstruct the view are also taboo.

Source used: stern.de