Driving in Dusseldorf´s low emission zone

I will rent a car in France and travel to Dusseldorf and Cologne. Do I need a emission sticker to enter those cities? If so, there is a physical store where I can buy it, instead of buying it online? How long does it take to get the sticker bought through the store?

Regards Michael

Best Answer

You do need an emission sticker for the inner parts of both cities. Here are links to maps showing the zone for Düsseldorf and Cologne (Köln) to see if your destination is part of the zone. If these links become invalid, just use Google's picture search for "Umweltzone [name of city]" and you should get decent results.

First I'd ask the car rental company beforehand whether they have cars which got the sticker already. If that's not the case, you'll have to buy one yourself (~ 5 Euros)

You can get the sticker at one of the official inspection authorities. These are named DEKRA, GTÜ, TÜV and KÜS. My suggestion would be to search Google Maps for these and choose one that is conveniently on your planned route. They're usually in industrial areas of towns. Mind the opening times, and make sure you know where the car's registration documents are. It should only take a few minutes on location.

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Driving in Dusseldorf´s low emission zone - Aerial view of wavy asphalt roads with driving cars and trucks between bright trees under endless cloudy sky in rural zone

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What happens if I drive through a low emission zone?

We may issue a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) if you drive within the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) without meeting emissions standards or paying the appropriate daily charge. You may be issued with a PCN if: Your vehicle does not meet LEZ emissions standards and you are not exempt or registered for a 100% discount.

Who can drive in a low emission zone?

Drive a vehicle in the London low emission zone (LEZ)

Exempt vehicles. Cars and motorcycles are exempt from the scheme. ...
Vehicles to check. You'll need to check your lorry, coach, bus, minibus, service vehicle or specialist vehicle (eg motorhome or motorised horsebox).
What to pay.

Do you have to pay to drive in low emission zone?

We prefer that your vehicle meets the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) standards so you don't have to pay the charge. If you do need to pay, charging days run from midnight to midnight, every day of the year. You can pay for up to three previous days, today or any day up to 90 days in the future.

Can I drive in Dusseldorf?

When driving in Dusseldorf, it's recommended that you avoid driving near, or in, the Old Town area, as a myriad of obstacles stand in your path including low parking availability, excessive one-way roads, and vehicle restriction zones. While touring any destination outside of the Old Town driving will be a breeze.

DUSSELDORF driving virtual tour 🇩🇪 Germany 4K Video Tour

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Images: Erik Mclean, Mike B, Kelly L, Erik Mclean