Everything You Need to Know About Carsharing in Germany
With growing environmental awareness and the search for flexible mobility solutions, carsharing has become a popular option in Germany—especially in major cities like Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg.
These services offer a practical and cost-effective alternative to owning a private car, combining convenience, flexibility, and a reduced environmental footprint.
What does Carsharing mean?
Carsharing simply means renting a car for a short period—minutes, hours, or a full day—without the burdens of owning a private vehicle such as insurance, taxes, maintenance, or dealing with parking.
You book a car only when you need it and pay based on time or distance driven.
Most popular providers in Germany
Share Now: Covers many big cities with a free-floating model, meaning you can park within the service area in many locations.
Sixt Share: Combines traditional car rental with flexible sharing options.
Miles: Charges by kilometer, making it a strong choice for longer trips.
WeShare: Operates electric cars in Berlin.
How does the service work?
1. Registration
Download the provider’s app (e.g., Share Now, Miles).
Enter personal details and upload your driver’s license and an ID photo.
After verification, your account is often activated within a few hours.
2. Finding a car
Open the map in the app and choose the nearest vehicle.
You can see fuel/battery level, car type, and an estimated price.
3. Unlocking the car
The car is unlocked directly via the app—no key needed.
Once confirmed, the booking starts and the meter begins.
4. Ending the trip
Park the car within the allowed service area.
Lock it via the app, and the booking ends automatically.
Pricing
Costs are typically around €0.19–€0.39 per minute, or fixed daily rates starting at roughly €30.
Extra fees may apply if the car is left in certain locations or if the tank is empty and not refueled. Some providers also offer discounted packages or prepaid deals.
Advantages
High flexibility: Use a car whenever you want, without long-term commitments.
No fixed parking required: Especially with free-floating services.
Lower financial burden: No constant insurance or maintenance costs.
Eco-friendly: Many fleets include electric or hybrid vehicles.
Disadvantages and challenges
Cars may not always be available, especially during peak hours.
Some districts or suburbs may not be covered.
Users may be responsible for minor damages if they don’t report them before starting the trip.
Practical tips
Inspect the car before driving and report any scratches or damage through the app.
Always check the boundaries of the area where you’re allowed to end the trip.
Keep your phone charged—the app is essential throughout the ride.
For longer trips, compare per-minute pricing with daily rates to choose the best option.
Conclusion
Carsharing in Germany offers a flexible, budget-friendly, and environmentally conscious way to get around. It’s ideal for people who don’t need a car every day or who want freedom without the responsibilities of ownership.
Whether you live in Germany or you’re visiting for a short stay, these services provide a modern and comfortable way to explore the city with independence and ease.
— Our website’s writers and editors strive to provide accurate information through extensive research and by reviewing multiple sources. However, mistakes may occur or some details may not be fully confirmed. Please treat this content as an initial reference and always consult the relevant authorities for verified information.
