Germany's Autobahns cover a distance of approx. 7,600 miles and form an ultra-modern and efficient transportation network. More than 700 gas stations, service areas and hotels are open twenty-four-seven. There are no tolls for passenger cars on the German Autobahn. In the event of an accident or breakdown, the German Automobile Association (ADAC) can provide roadside assistance throughout the country. Members of an international partner organization such as AAA receive free assistance. Drivers are required to carry a valid driver's license, the vehicle registration documents and proof of proper insurance. Vehicles from other countries which do not have a European registration plate incorporating the country code are required to display a sticker showing their country of origin. Leaded petrol is no longer available in Germany; the majority of passenger cars uses "Normal", "Super" or "Super Plus" fuel. Besides regular "Diesel", "Bio-Diesel", a green fuel made of biomass, is also available. As more and more cars are equipped with natural gas engines, Germany also has an increasing number of natural gas filling stations.

Are you looking to rent a car in Germany? If you're traveling in Germany with a lot of luggage or you would like to keep your itinerary very flexible and independent from any train schedules, this is your best option. Benefits of car rental in Germany are, for example:

* Convenience. When you need fast and easy car rental, Germany offers it. Rent your car day or night, at more than 40 railway stations from companies such as Avis, Budget, Hertz and Sixt. You can also pick up your rental car from various locations, such as airports, hotels and city stations, and begin an enjoyable journey by car right away.

* Cost and Selection. Depending on the selected car rental company, you may be eligible for special weekly rates with unlimited mileage. Also, look for weekend package deals and free upgrades, and collect miles or bonus points with your reward program! Cars of all classes are available in Germany, including vans, compact cars, convertibles and, of course, fast sports cars.

Since the majority of the Germans is used to driving stick-shift, you may wish to request an automatic car upon reservation.

In Germany, as in other countries, the usual road traffic regulations apply. Traffic drives on the right, a red light means stop and green means go. Passing other cars on the right is prohibited.

For passenger cars, the speed limit outside residential areas is 100 km/h. Within urban areas, the limit is 50 km/h. Yellow road signs with the name of the town or village indicate that you are entering a residential area on the right, and yellow signs with a red line crossing out the name left of the road indicate that you are leaving. A maximum speed of 130 km/h is recommended on the Autobahn. Cars with trailers (including caravans) are not allowed to exceed 80 km/h on any road including Autobahn and other highways.There are no tolls for cars on Germany's Autobahns. Drivers are required to carry a valid drivers' license, the vehicle registration documents and proof of insurance.  It is compulsory to keep a hazard warning triangle and first aid box in the car. The minimum driving age is 18 years.

The law requires seatbelts to be worn in all seats, both front and rear. Child seats are mandatory for children up to the age of four, and children up to the age of 12 or a height under 5 feet must use booster cushions. Motorcyclists must wear helmets.

The blood alcohol limit is 50 milligrams per 100 milliliters of blood. Drivers found to be over the limit (breath test and blood sample) can expect severe penalties and the loss of their drivers' license. Driving under the influence will automatically result in a penalty when getting involved in an accident, whether or not the drunk driver caused it and even if his blood alcohol was below the limit.

Cell phones may only be used with a hands-free system.

Failure to comply with road traffic laws can be punished by a fine or even the loss of your driving license.