Germany bans points trading, adds automated parking enforcement and extends violation statute

From 1 July 2026 a revision of the German Road Traffic Act (StVG) makes the trade of driving‑points illegal. Anyone who deceives authorities about responsibility for a traffic offence or offers such a service can be fined up to €30,000. The amendment also creates a legal basis for “Scancars” – vehicles equipped with cameras that automatically record parking violations in residential zones.

The reform extends the limitation period for traffic offences from three to six months, meaning drivers may receive a fine up to six months after the infraction. In addition, the law paves the way for a digital driver’s licence that can be accessed via a smartphone app, while the traditional plastic licence remains valid.

The ADAC welcomed the closure of the points‑trading loophole and warned that the new automated parking‑monitoring tools will aid municipalities, though it noted they are not a complete solution to parking shortages.