Germany Cracks Down on Speed Camera Apps: Drivers & Passengers Face Fines – But There’s a Google Maps Loophole
Published: October 26, 2023 | Last Updated: October 26, 2023
Berlin, Germany – German authorities are sending a clear message to drivers: keep your eyes on the road. A recent tightening of traffic regulations (Section 23 (1) StVO) now explicitly prohibits the use of speed camera apps – not just for drivers, but for passengers as well. This means a hefty €75 fine and a point on your driving record (in Flensburg) if caught. But, in a twist that’s sending ripples through the tech-savvy driving community, Android users have discovered a workaround leveraging the power of Google Maps.
The New Rules: What You Need to Know
For years, drivers have relied on apps to alert them to upcoming speed cameras, often leading to last-minute braking and potentially dangerous situations. The German government’s rationale is simple: drivers should maintain a consistent, legal speed at all times, not just near enforcement zones. The updated law aims to discourage this “iron braking” behavior. The penalty? A €75 fine and one point added to your Flensburg record – a system that tracks driving violations and can ultimately lead to license suspension. This penalty is set to increase to a point in Flensburg as of August 2025.
The Google Maps Workaround: A Clever Android Solution
While Google Maps itself doesn’t display speed camera locations within Germany, resourceful Android users have found a way to integrate radar warnings using a free app called TomTom Amigo. Here’s how it works:
- Install TomTom Amigo: Download it from the Google Play Store and agree to the terms, acknowledging you’ll abide by all applicable laws. (Remember, using this while actively driving is still legally ambiguous.)
- Grant Location Access: Allow the app to access your location.
- Enable Overlay: In TomTom Amigo’s settings, activate the “overlay” feature – this allows it to display information “over other apps.”
- Navigate with Google Maps: Open Google Maps, enter your destination, and start navigation. TomTom Amigo will appear as a small window or bar on the screen, providing radar warnings.
This effectively turns Google Maps into a speed camera warning system without directly violating the ban on dedicated apps. However, it’s crucial to remember that the legal interpretation of this workaround remains uncertain.
What About iPhone Users?
Unfortunately for iOS users, this overlay trick doesn’t work. Apple’s operating system doesn’t allow for permanent app overlays, meaning iPhone drivers are currently limited to traditional radar warning apps or dedicated speed camera gadgets – and must be mindful of the legal restrictions.
Beyond the Workaround: Alternative Options & Legal Considerations
While the TomTom Amigo/Google Maps combination offers a potential solution for Android users, it’s essential to understand the legal landscape. Using an active speed camera app while driving – whether you’re the driver or a passenger – is strictly prohibited. However, gathering information about speed camera locations *before* starting your journey is permitted, as is using such apps legally in other countries.
For those seeking alternatives, several apps and gadgets are available, including:
- Blitzer.de PRO: Known for its large community and real-time warnings.
- Camsam: Offers a good map view and user-friendly interface.
- Flitsmeister: Popular in the Netherlands, also available for Germany.
- Waze: Google-owned, but officially deactivated speed camera warnings in Germany.
- Ooono Co-Driver: A dedicated speed camera gadget with various models available, including the affordable Ooono Co-Driver NO1 currently on sale on Amazon.
Smart parking discs from Ooono are also available, adding another layer of convenience for drivers.
Ultimately, the most effective way to avoid fines and ensure road safety is simple: maintain a safe and legal speed at all times. While technology can offer assistance, it shouldn’t replace responsible driving habits. And, if you’re ever unsure, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and deactivate any potentially problematic apps before a police check.
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