Carnival float

For the use of vehicles at traditional events, such as shooting or carnival parades, exemptions from the StVZO, the StVO and the Driving Licence Ordinance can be granted under certain conditions. For example, it is possible to exceptionally transport people sitting or standing on the loading area and to drive towing vehicles with trailers with driving licence classes 5, L or T.

If vehicles without an operating licence are used for participation in customs events or if vehicles are significantly modified for participation, an assessment by an officially recognised expert from TÜV NORD is required before the exemption permit is issued.

The scope of the assessment and the technical requirements for the vehicles are set out in the "Information sheet on the equipment and operation of vehicles and vehicle combinations for use at traditional events".

• Standing surfaces must be safe and non-slip.
• Holding devices and railings are required. Railings must be at least one metre high for standing passengers and at least 80 cm high for seated passengers or children.
• Benches, tables and other fixtures and fittings must be sufficiently securely attached to the vehicle.
• Entrances and exits must be firm and safe to walk on and should be located as far back as possible in the direction of travel, but must never be located between two connected vehicles.
• When transporting standing passengers, the maximum permissible speed is 6 km/h, and 25 km/h for seated passengers.
• Children may only be transported on loading areas under the supervision of an adult.