What Exactly Is Ordnungsrecht in Germany?

Ordnungsrecht refers to public regulatory law in Germany. It is designed to maintain public order, safety, and health, and it gives administrative bodies the authority to issue warnings, impose fines, or even revoke rights—like the driver’s license—without a court order.

It plays a vital role in how state agencies like the Führerscheinstelle (driver’s license authority) or police departments take action against individuals who violate traffic laws or pose a risk to road safety.

Key Concepts of Ordnungsrecht Relevant to Drivers

1. Gefahrenabwehr (Hazard Prevention)

If authorities believe someone poses a potential future danger on the roads (e.g. through drug use, repeated speeding), they can act preemptively, even without a criminal conviction.

This is why MPUs are often ordered before a court case concludes, or in the absence of one entirely.

2. Verwaltungsrechtliche Maßnahmen (Administrative Measures)

Unlike criminal law, Ordnungsrecht does not require a full trial. Instead:

• Your license can be suspended

• You may be forced to take an MPU

• A warning or a driving ban can be issued immediately

Ordnungsrecht and the Medical-Psychological Assessment (MPU)

Under Ordnungsrecht, the licensing authority can order an MPU if there is reasonable doubt about your fitness to drive.

This includes:

• Drug use (Cannabis, Kokain, Alkohol)

• Repeated traffic violations

• Aggressive or dangerous driving behavior

You don’t need to be convicted of a crime. If the authority sees a pattern of risk, they can impose conditions under §11 ff. FeV (Driver’s License Regulation).

Common Situations Where Ordnungsrecht Affects Your Driver’s License

A. Cannabis or Drug Use

Even gelegentlicher Konsum (occasional use) of cannabis can trigger Ordnungsrecht measures, including an immediate driving ban or MPU requirement.

B. Alcohol-Related Incidents

A BAC over 1.6‰ leads to mandatory MPU and license suspension under administrative law, regardless of criminal proceedings.

C. Traffic Reoffenders

Those who repeatedly accumulate points in Flensburg (German traffic violation registry) may face administrative actions such as:

• Written warnings

• Obligatory driving seminars

• Suspension of license

Role of the Police (Ordnung Polizei) Under Ordnungsrecht

The Ordnungspolizei (regulatory police) operates under Ordnungsrecht authority. They enforce road safety not just by criminal law but through:

• On-the-spot drug/alcohol testing

• Immediate seizure of license

• Referral for psychological or medical evaluation

Legal Frameworks Supporting Ordnungsrecht in Driving Cases

Key laws include:

• FeV (Fahrerlaubnis-Verordnung) – outlines when MPU is required

• StVG (Straßenverkehrsgesetz) – traffic control and driver fitness

• OWiG (Ordnungswidrigkeitengesetz) – covers administrative offenses

These legal foundations empower authorities to act quickly and preventively, which is why drivers are often surprised when they lose their license without a court trial.

How Can a Verkehrsrecht Anwalt Help With Ordnungsrecht Issues?

A verkehrsrecht anwalt (traffic lawyer) is your best defense against administrative overreach. They help you:

• Challenge MPU orders

• Appeal unjust license suspensions

• Ensure procedural correctness (e.g., proper evidence, timeframes)

• Represent you during hearings at the Führerscheinstelle

Especially in cases of Kokain Nachweisbarkeit (cocaine detectability), administrative actions can be harsh and misinformed. A skilled lawyer ensures that only valid evidence is used against you.

MPU and Ordnungsrecht: The Connection

Let’s say you’ve been stopped for a drug-related offense. Even if it was minor or you weren’t charged criminally, the Ordnungsrecht allows the Führerscheinstelle to:

1. Demand immediate abstinence proof

2. Order an MPU

3. Delay or deny license renewal

4. Restrict driving even if court drops the case

What If You Don’t Follow Ordnungsrecht Measures?

Non-compliance leads to:

• Longer license suspensions

• Higher costs (multiple MPU attempts)

• Negative reports on your driving fitness

• In rare cases, the permanent revocation of your license

Strategies to Manage Ordnungsrecht Sanctions

✔ Start Documenting Early

Keep a record of all communication, test results, and course participation.

✔ Work With Certified Institutions

MPU preparation must be done through BASt-certified providers to be valid.

✔ Seek Legal Counsel Immediately

Don’t wait for an official notice. A rechtsanwalt verkehrsrecht can advise you the moment you’re flagged.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I Refuse an MPU Ordered by the Führerscheinstelle?

Yes, but refusal usually results in license denial or delay. It’s better to challenge the order legally with a lawyer.

❓ What’s the Difference Between Ordnungsrecht and Criminal Law in Driving Cases?

Ordnungsrecht acts preventively and administratively—without a trial. Criminal law punishes proven offenses.

❓ Is It Legal for Police to Take My License Without Conviction?

Yes, under §11 FeV and Ordnungsrecht, if you’re deemed unfit to drive due to behavior, drug use, or repeated offenses.

Conclusion: Ordnungsrecht is Powerful—But Not Absolute

While Ordnungsrecht allows fast administrative actions to protect public safety, it’s not above scrutiny. Many people lose their licenses without understanding their rights. If you’re facing MPU, license delays, or threats from authorities, take the situation seriously. With the help of a qualified verkehrsrecht anwalt, you can challenge unfair orders and work towards regaining your driving freedom.