Public Transport (ÖPNV) — Deutschlandticket, Monthly Passes & Rules

Deutschlandticket

Since May 2023, the Deutschlandticket has been available — a monthly subscription for all public transport in Germany:

• Price: €49 per month (as of 2025)
• Valid on: all buses, trams, U-Bahns, S-Bahns and regional trains (2nd class)
• Not valid on: ICE, IC, EC and other long-distance trains
• Subscription model: Cancellable monthly, available digitally as app or chip card
• Order: Via your local transport association app (HVV, MVV, BVG, VRS, etc.) or the Deutsche Bahn app

Is Deutschlandticket Worth It?

Comparison with regional monthly passes:

Conclusion: Deutschlandticket almost always pays for itself — and you can use it in other cities too.

Other Tickets and Fares

If you use public transport only occasionally:

• Single ticket — from approx. €2.50–3.50 depending on city and zone
• Day ticket — from approx. €7–9, unlimited rides in one day
• Weekly ticket — cheaper than 7 single tickets in some transport associations
• Group ticket — for up to 5 people, often cheaper on weekends

Discounts

• Children under 6 years — travel free
• Children 6–14 years — discounted tickets
• Students — semester ticket (often included in semester fees, €100–200/semester)
• Seniors and people with disabilities — special rates depending on transport association

Schwarzfahren — Not a Minor Offense!

Traveling without a valid ticket on public transport in Germany is a crime (obtaining services by deception, § 265a StGB):

• Increased fare charge: €60 — due immediately upon inspection
• Repeated offences: criminal charges possible → fine or imprisonment up to 1 year
• Immigration consequences: charges can jeopardize residence status

Tip: Always keep your ticket ready. For digital tickets: keep your phone charged and load the QR code in advance (offline mode).

ÖPNV Rules

• Validate or activate — paper tickets must be stamped at the machine before traveling
• Food and drinks — not allowed on trains in many cities
• Bicycles — transport often only outside peak hours, additional ticket required
• Dogs — small dogs in carriers travel free, large dogs need a child ticket
• Accessibility — keep front doors clear, respect spaces for wheelchairs and strollers

Status: March 2026. All information without guarantee.