Overtaking a funeral or wedding convoy in Germany: a traffic violation and a breach of public respect

In German traffic culture, rules are not only about safety and discipline, but also about courtesy and respect in public space. This includes how drivers التعامل with special convoys—whether a solemn funeral procession or a joyful wedding convoy.
Even if the law does not spell out a single explicit rule for every scenario, aggressive or inconsiderate overtaking can still be treated as a traffic violation and, in some cases, as provocative behavior with serious consequences.

What does German law say?
The German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) do not explicitly state “it is forbidden to overtake funeral/wedding convoys,” but they always require:

• careful, considerate driving (§ 1 StVO)

• avoiding endangering, disturbing, or confusing other road users

• not overtaking slow vehicles if it creates clear confusion or disruption (§ 5 StVO)

So, overtaking an organized slow convoy can be considered a violation if it breaks the convoy, causes confusion, or deliberately disrupts it.

Which convoys are treated as “special”?

• Funeral convoy (Trauerzug): typically slow behind a hearse; often with lights on or a “Beerdigung” sign.

• Wedding convoy (Hochzeitskorso): multiple vehicles driving in sequence, often decorated and sometimes using hazard lights.

In both cases, overtaking is legally and socially problematic if it splits the line or disrupts the flow.

Possible penalties

Violation | Fine | Points | Notes

• Inconsiderate overtaking of a funeral convoy | €100 | 1 point | possible report by participants

• Overtaking a wedding convoy and creating danger/chaos | €120–€150 | 1–2 points | complaint possible due to aggressive conduct

• Verbal/physical abuse during the incident | criminal complaint | – | may result in fines or suspended prison sentence

What about filming or making noise?

• Recording and publishing without consent may violate privacy/personality rights and lead to civil claims.

• Unnecessary honking or noise may violate § 30 StVO (noise disturbance).

When is overtaking allowed?
Only if:

• the convoy is not clearly continuous and there is a safe gap

• the convoy is clearly dissolving or illegally obstructing traffic

• overtaking does not split the convoy or confuse participants

Even then, a respectful, non-provocative approach remains essential.

Conclusion
Overtaking a funeral or wedding convoy in an aggressive manner is not just a traffic issue—it conflicts with public respect and can carry fines, points, and, in extreme cases, a classification as aggressive driving behavior.

ـ* The site’s writers and editors aim to provide accurate information, but mistakes or unconfirmed details may occur. Please treat this as initial guidance and consult the competent authorities for confirmed advice.