How long do I have to object to a Bußgeldbescheid?

Usually two weeks from delivery of the fine notice. The objection (Einspruch) goes to the authority that issued it. The exact period is stated in the Rechtsbehelfsbelehrung on the notice.

What is the difference between an Anhörungsbogen and a Bußgeldbescheid?

The Anhörungsbogen (hearing form) comes first and lets you comment; no objection deadline runs yet. The later Bußgeldbescheid actually sets the fine and starts the two-week objection period.

Do I have to give reasons for the Einspruch immediately?

No. To meet the deadline the Einspruch itself is enough; reasons can follow, for example after seeing the file. The objection can also be limited to part of the notice, such as only the amount or a driving ban.

What happens after I object?

The authority reviews the case. If it does not withdraw the fine, it usually passes the matter via the public prosecutor to the local court (Amtsgericht), which then decides. An Einspruch can also be withdrawn.

Guide

Bußgeldbescheid: a German fine notice

A Bußgeldbescheid sets a fine for an administrative offence — most often a traffic matter. It also starts a short deadline. Here is what it means and how to react.

First things first

The remedy is Einspruch, usually within two weeks of delivery, to the authority that issued the notice. The exact route is in the Rechtsbehelfsbelehrung.

First the hearing form, then the notice

For many offences an Anhörungsbogen (hearing form) arrives first — you may comment, but no objection deadline is running yet. Only the later Bußgeldbescheid sets the fine and starts the two-week period. Check which one you actually hold.

The deadline

You usually have two weeks from delivery. The Einspruch must arrive at the authority within that time, not merely be sent. If the last day is a weekend or holiday, it moves to the next working day.

Dates without guarantee. The binding source is the Rechtsbehelfsbelehrung on the notice. Check the delivery date and keep the envelope.

How to respond

Check the notice. Are the alleged offence, place, time and your details correct? Are the amount, any points (Punkte) or a driving ban (Fahrverbot) plausible?
File the Einspruch in time, in writing, to the authority named on the notice, quoting the reference number. A short statement that you object is enough; reasons can follow after file inspection. The objection can be limited to single points.
Next step. If the authority does not withdraw the fine, the case usually goes via the public prosecutor to the local court (Amtsgericht).

This guide is general information and not legal advice. With a threatened driving ban, points, or a high fine, legal advice can be worth it — an objection can also make the case more expensive.

Frequently asked

How long do I have?

Usually two weeks from delivery of the Bußgeldbescheid. The Rechtsbehelfsbelehrung is binding.

Can I object only to the amount?

Yes. The Einspruch can be limited to single points, such as only the fine amount or a driving ban.

What if I miss the two weeks?

The notice usually becomes final and enforceable. If you missed it through no fault of your own, reinstatement (Wiedereinsetzung) may be possible — act quickly and get advice.

Two weeks go fast

Photograph the notice — Mein Büro reads the German, extracts the amount and the deadline, and counts down the days for you.

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German deadlines (Frist): how they work Mahnung: a German payment reminder, explained

Bußgeldbescheid: a German fine notice

First the hearing form, then the notice

The deadline

How to respond

Frequently asked

Two weeks go fast

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