Emergency Numbers & Police in Germany
Foto: Pexels / Kat Wilcox
Knowing Germany’s emergency numbers could save your life. As an international student, memorise these — and know when to call which one.
The 4 Essential Numbers
🚨 112 — Fire & Medical Emergency
For life-threatening situations: cardiac arrest, serious injury, fire. Call 112 and you will be connected to fire services or paramedics. Works free of charge without a SIM card or credit — EU-wide.
👮 110 — Police
For burglaries, theft, accidents or if you witness a crime. Available 24/7.
🏥 116 117 — Out-of-hours Doctor
For non-life-threatening illness outside surgery hours: fever, earache, minor injuries. Not an emergency — but still a doctor. Saves hours of waiting in A&E.
📞 115 — Government Services
Questions about offices, forms, or which authority you need — 115 connects you to the right place.
For non-life-threatening complaints at night, always call 116 117 first. German A&E departments are often overcrowded; 116 117 arranges a doctor far quicker.
Police in Germany — What to Know
No bribery
German police officers do not accept bribes — and are legally prohibited from doing so. Offering a bribe is itself a criminal offence and can result in serious legal consequences.
ID requirement
You must be able to identify yourself (passport or residence permit). There is no requirement to carry your document at all times, but if you cannot produce ID you may be taken to the station for identity verification.
Right to remain silent
As a suspect you are not obliged to make a statement. Say: “Ich möchte einen Anwalt sprechen” (I want to speak to a lawyer). This right applies regardless of your nationality.
English
Police in Darmstadt often speak English. If not, you have the right to request an interpreter: “I need an interpreter.”
Crime reference number (Aktenzeichen)
If a crime is committed against you (theft, assault), you will receive a crime reference number after filing a report. Keep it — it is essential for insurance claims, replacing documents, and other administrative processes.
If You’re Robbed or Lose Documents
- Step 1: Go to the nearest police station — Polizeipräsidium Darmstadt: Bismarckstraße 74.
- Step 2: File a police report (Anzeige erstatten). It is free and takes roughly 30 minutes.
- Step 3: Note your crime reference number (Aktenzeichen) — needed for insurance, passport replacement, etc.
Immediate actions:
- Block your bank card: Hotline 116 116 (free, 24/7)
- Block your phone: report your IMEI number to your mobile provider
- Passport stolen: contact the nearest embassy or consulate of your home country
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in certain situations (e.g. at checkpoints or with reasonable suspicion). Stay calm, cooperate and show your passport or residence permit.
You have the right to an interpreter. Say: “I need an interpreter.” Police in Darmstadt often speak English. If not, an interpreter will be arranged.
There is a general duty to testify as a witness, but witnesses are not simply taken to the station — they receive an official summons. If you receive one, you should attend or inform the police in advance if you cannot.
Yes — 112 always works, free of charge, without a SIM card or credit. It is available throughout the EU and is routed by any mobile network.
The Ordnungsamt (municipal enforcement office) handles administrative offences: illegal parking, noise complaints, curfew violations. For crimes (theft, assault, burglary), only the police (110) are responsible.
Looking for accommodation in Darmstadt?
Fully furnished studios from €760/mo, steps from TU Darmstadt — fibre internet, induction kitchen, KNX smart home. Get in touch now:
Or use the enquiry form →