One of the most confusing things for tourists in Germany is the ticket validation system. Unlike many countries, you can't just buy a ticket and hop on the train. You need to validate it first, or you could face a fine of up to €60!
What is an Entwerter?
An Entwerter (pronounced "ent-VAIR-ter") is a ticket validation machine found at German train stations. It's usually yellow or red and has a slot where you insert your ticket. The machine stamps your ticket with the date and time, making it valid for travel.
⚠️ Important Warning
If you don't validate your ticket before boarding, you could be fined €60 or more. Ticket inspectors are strict, and "I didn't know" is not an excuse.
Where to Find Entwerter Machines
Entwerter machines are located:
- At the entrance to platforms
- Near ticket machines
- At station entrances
- On some platforms themselves
They're usually yellow or red and clearly marked. If you can't find one, ask station staff ("Wo ist der Entwerter?" means "Where is the validator?").
Step-by-Step: How to Validate Your Ticket
Find the Entwerter
Look for the yellow or red machine. It will have a slot for tickets and may be marked with "Entwerter" or have a ticket symbol.
Insert Your Ticket
Insert your ticket into the slot. Make sure it's facing the right way (usually with the printed side up). The machine will automatically stamp it.
Remove Your Ticket
Wait for the machine to stamp your ticket (you'll hear a clicking sound), then remove it. Check that the stamp is clearly visible with the date and time.
Keep Your Ticket
Keep your validated ticket with you during your journey. Ticket inspectors may ask to see it, and you must be able to show the validation stamp.
When Do You Need to Validate?
You need to validate tickets for:
- Regional trains (RE, RB, S-Bahn)
- Local transport (buses, trams, U-Bahn)
- Some long-distance tickets (check your ticket type)
You usually DON'T need to validate:
- ICE/IC long-distance tickets (they have seat reservations)
- Online tickets with QR codes
- Tickets bought on your phone
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Forgetting to validate - This is the most common mistake. Always validate before boarding!
- • Validating too early - Some tickets are only valid for a certain time after validation.
- • Not checking the stamp - Make sure the validation stamp is clear and readable.
- • Losing your ticket - Keep it safe during your journey.
What Happens If You Don't Validate?
If you're caught with an unvalidated ticket, you'll be fined. The fine is typically €60, but can be higher depending on the situation. Ticket inspectors are strict, and they check regularly, especially on busy routes.
Pro Tips
Validate Immediately
Validate your ticket as soon as you arrive at the station, before you forget.
Ask for Help
If you're unsure, ask station staff or other passengers - they're usually helpful.
Take a Photo
Take a photo of your validated ticket as backup in case you lose it.
Book Online
For long-distance travel, consider booking online to avoid validation entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to validate my ticket if I bought it online?
It depends on the ticket type. Long-distance tickets (ICE, IC) bought online are usually already validated and don't need additional validation. Regional tickets (S-Bahn, RE, RB) bought online or at machines still need to be validated using the Entwerter machine before boarding.
What happens if I forget to validate my ticket?
If you're caught with an unvalidated ticket, you'll be fined €60 or more. Ticket inspectors are strict and check regularly, especially on busy routes. "I didn't know" is not an acceptable excuse, so always validate before boarding.
Can I validate my ticket after boarding the train?
No, you must validate your ticket before boarding. If you board without validating, you risk a fine even if you validate later. Always validate at the station before getting on the train.
What if the Entwerter machine is broken?
If the validation machine is broken, you should still board the train. If a ticket inspector checks your ticket, explain the situation. However, it's best to look for another validation machine at the station or ask station staff for help.
Do I need to validate my ticket for each journey?
Yes, if you have a single-journey ticket, you need to validate it each time you use it. However, if you have a day ticket or multi-day ticket, you only need to validate it once at the beginning of the first journey.
What if I validate my ticket too early?
Some tickets are only valid for a certain time period after validation (usually 2-3 hours). If you validate too early and your ticket expires before you reach your destination, you may be fined. Validate your ticket just before boarding, not hours in advance.
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