---
description: >-
  The Road Traffic Act outlines the rules and responsibilities for road users to
  ensure safety and order on public roads. It covers topics such as dangerous
  driving, speed limits, vehicle use, licensing
---

# 24a - Waiting Period for the Right to Drive a License-required Motor Vehicle Due to Criminal Offense

Anyone who has driven a motor vehicle without having the appropriate driver's license for the relevant license class cannot obtain such a driving right for the first time until 6 months have passed since the illegal driving occurred. If they are younger than the legal minimum age for such a driving right, the waiting period runs until 6 months after they reach the minimum age. If the driving caused significant damage, the waiting period in the first and second sentences shall be one year. The same applies to anyone who unlawfully changes the maximum speed or performance of a motor vehicle in violation of § 13, fifth paragraph.

If someone without a driving right is sentenced for an offense that would have resulted in the loss of the right to drive a motor vehicle for a certain minimum period or permanently according to mandatory rules in or under § 33, a waiting period for granting the driving right to the person shall be set in the same judgment, penalty notice, or decision on referral to the conflict resolution board. The waiting period shall not be shorter than the period for the loss of driving rights that would have been determined under § 33.

If someone without a driving right is reasonably suspected of a criminal offense that may affect their ability to obtain a driver's license, the Chief of Police or someone they authorize may decide that the driving right cannot be acquired until the case is finally resolved, but not for more than 3 months without a decision from the district court.
