Warning beacons on private vehicles

In our daily consultations with customers, we are often asked whether the use of amber rotating beacons on private vehicles is permitted. This question requires a more nuanced answer.

The applicable regulations in Germany are as follows:

StVO § 38 (3) [...] Amber Flashing Light

Amber flashing light serves as a warning of danger. It may be used in fixed locations or from vehicles. Use from vehicles is only permitted to warn of work or accident sites, unusually slow-moving vehicles, or vehicles with unusual width or length, or with unusually wide or long loads.

Source: gesetze-im-internet.de
Therefore, the use of amber flashing lights from vehicles is permitted in hazardous situations.

StVZO § 52 (4)

Vehicles may be equipped with warning beacons for amber flashing light – rotating beacons – if they meet the following criteria:

1. Vehicles used for the construction, maintenance, or cleaning of roads, marked with red-and-white warning markings in accordance with DIN 30710.

2. Waste collection vehicles, also marked with red-and-white warning markings in accordance with DIN 30710.

3. Recognized roadside assistance vehicles.

4. Recognized escort vehicles for heavy transports.

Source: gesetze-im-internet.de

According to StVZO § 52 (4), rotating warning beacons are only eligible for registration on the vehicle types listed above — without requiring a special permit under § 70 StVZO.