Tolerance deduction for speed cameras: How much is really deducted

The basic rule

No measuring device is perfect. That is why a tolerance is deducted from the measured value:

• Measured below 100 km/h: 3 km/h deduction
• Measured at 100 km/h or above: 3 % of the measured value (rounded up in your favour)

Example: Measured at 141 km/h where 100 km/h was allowed. Deduction: 3 % of 141 = 4.23, rounded up to 5 km/h. The chargeable speed is 136 km/h – i.e. 36 km/h over instead of 41. That is exactly the difference between 200 € with a conditional driving ban and 320 € with a standard driving ban (Regelfahrverbot). Run your case through the fine calculator.

Higher tolerances for less reliable measurement methods

Why the tolerance is often not enough

The deduction only compensates for normal measurement inaccuracy. It does not help against:

• incorrectly positioned or uncalibrated devices,
• missing or faulty measurement logs,
• operating errors by the measuring personnel,
• reflections, double captures or wrong vehicle attribution.

Such errors can render the measurement unusable altogether – regardless of any tolerance deduction. Which weak points your device type has is covered in the guide on speed camera measurement errors.

Borderline cases especially worth checking

If your chargeable value is just above a catalogue threshold (e.g. 21, 26, 31 or 41 km/h), the review pays off twice: just 1–2 km/h less means a whole level lower – often the difference between a point and no point, or between a driving ban and a fine. These are exactly the cases that win appeals. Have your fine notice reviewed free of charge.