In Germany, the police are not entitled to search your car trunk (Kofferraum) without a valid legal reason or a court order, except in certain cases.

When is a trunk search allowed without a court order?

• If there is a reasonable suspicion that the trunk contains illegal items, such as drugs or weapons.

• During routine checks at traffic checkpoints, if the officer requests it based on objective reasons.

• In emergencies requiring immediate action to protect security or people’s safety.

• If the driver voluntarily agrees to the search.

When is a court order required?

• If there is no specific suspicion, or if the search is random with no legal justification.

• When searching vehicles in private places, such as closed parking facilities or garages.

Your rights during a vehicle search

• You can ask for the reason for the search.

• You may request the presence of a witness during the search if you wish.

• Do not physically resist the search.

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