August 3, 2026, 5:45 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Courts in Germany have repeatedly had to address the question of whether and, if so, with what exceptions the use of so-called speed camera apps is permitted. Until now, the legal situation differed for drivers and passengers. However, the regulations have now been tightened.
Overview
Speed Camera Apps Not Previously Explicitly Mentioned
The use of so-called radar detectors is regulated in Section 23 of the Road Traffic Regulations. It previously stated: “Anyone operating a vehicle may not use or carry ready-to-use technical devices designed to indicate or interfere with traffic monitoring measures.” This primarily applied to radar detectors or laser jammers. Violations could result in a fine of 75 euros and up to one point in Flensburg (Federal Motor Transport Authority). Not only is the use of such a system prohibited, but merely carrying a ready-to-use device is considered an administrative offense.
If the police find a corresponding radar detector during a check, they are allowed to confiscate it. Navigation devices and smartphones are not explicitly mentioned. Since they primarily serve other functions, they are likely exempt from this regulation.
Also interesting: Compare fuel prices easily online or via app
Explicit Ban on Speed Camera Apps
In 2020, the Bundesrat agreed to expand the mentioned paragraph. Since then, the rule explicitly applies to devices that can warn of speed cameras, not just those specifically designed for that purpose. Until then, it was not clearly regulated whether cellphones were affected by the law, as their primary use is not the detection of speed cameras.
“The StVO amendment explicitly states that drivers are not allowed to use speed camera apps, e.g., on smartphones or in navigation systems while driving. This was already the case, but it is now clearly reiterated.”
Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMVI)
Why Speed Camera Warnings on the Radio Are Legal
Speed camera warnings on the radio are allowed. This may not seem consistent, but there is a simple reason: Compared to illegal devices, radio warnings are much less precise, which means the speed limit is generally observed over a longer section of the “danger zone.” Fixed speed cameras are often installed at accident hotspots and are part of the standard repertoire to increase traffic safety at specific points.
Due to the GPS receiver in the phone, the location information of radar detector apps is so precise that they undermine this safety measure. Users of illegal aids tend to brake only briefly at the speed camera to reduce to the prescribed speed. Afterward, they ignore the regulations again.
IKEA Penalized for Video Surveillance
This device is now mandatory in all new cars
Law Tightens Rules for Passengers
Although the law officially also covers cellphones and their software, a loophole remained for a long time. The law did not explicitly address the behavior of a potential passenger. Therefore, the passenger had the opportunity to warn the driver of upcoming speed cameras.
However, the Higher Regional Court of Karlsruhe has now tightened this regulation. The ruling (Case No.: 2 ORbs 35 Ss 9/23) from February 7, 2023, is final and states that the use of speed camera apps is also illegal if it occurs “with the approval of the driver.” A case from early 2022 was heard.
At that time, a man drove through Heidelberg at excessive speed, with his passenger’s smartphone, running a speed camera app, on the center console. When the police stopped and checked him, he deliberately pushed the smartphone aside. The court concluded that the driver was aware of the app’s use during the drive and approved it. In the first instance, the Heidelberg District Court imposed a fine of 100 euros on the driver. He filed a complaint, and the case went to the Higher Regional Court of Karlsruhe, where the initial ruling was upheld.
Detecting Speed Camera Apps in Practice Is Difficult
In practice, however, it is difficult to check a smartphone accordingly. In general, the police are authorized to confiscate such problematic devices. However, especially with speed camera apps on a cellphone, this is challenging. During a vehicle check, police officers may request vehicle documents and check for the presence of a warning triangle and first aid kit. Without reasonable suspicion, they are not allowed to “enter” or search the car. The same applies to the inspection or confiscation of a smartphone–a reasonable suspicion is required, such as a warning signal from the app during the traffic stop.
In other European countries, significantly higher penalties are imposed for the use of speed camera apps, ranging from drastically high fines to imprisonment in extreme cases. In Italy, for example, fines start at 800 euros.