Nürburgring Public Sessions: Everything You Need to Know About Seats, Safety, and Regulations
If you’re planning a trip to the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, you’re certainly not alone. We speak with dozens of customers every month who are preparing their vehicles for Touristenfahrten—the public driving sessions that allow enthusiasts to experience one of the most iconic circuits in the world. But before you hit the Green Hell, it’s essential to understand that the Nürburgring operates under very specific regulations, even during non-competitive public sessions.
At GSM Performance, we offer a wide range of motorsport products—from bucket seats and roll cages to harnesses and helmets. However, not all of these products are suitable or compliant for Nürburgring public driving rules. For example, bucket seats with wraparound head supports (commonly referred to as “ears”) are prohibited, and certain types of safety gear like HANS devices and full racing harnesses may not be recommended or allowed. This blog is here to help guide you through the key regulations, so you know which products from our lineup are approved, which ones are not, and how to ensure your car is fully prepared for a safe and trouble-free session on this world-famous circuit.
The Nürburgring: A Legendary Circuit
The Nürburgring Nordschleife is one of the most iconic and demanding racetracks in the world. Its combination of high-speed straights, tight corners, and significant elevation changes has earned it the nickname “Green Hell.” The track is open to the public during Touristenfahrten sessions, allowing enthusiasts to experience its challenges firsthand.
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During these sessions, the track is considered a public road, and the German Road Traffic Ordinance (StVO) applies. This unique setup means that while you’re on a racetrack, you’re also subject to standard traffic laws. Understanding and adhering to these regulations is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.
General Rules for Public Sessions
When participating in Touristenfahrten, it’s essential to be aware of the following regulations:
- Compliance with StVO: All standard traffic laws apply. Overtaking is only permitted on the left. Overtaking on the right is strictly prohibited.
- Vehicle Requirements: Only vehicles that comply with the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO) are permitted. This excludes vehicles like quad bikes and those unable to exceed 130 km/h due to design or condition.
- Documentation: Drivers must carry a valid driving license and vehicle registration documents. Vehicles not registered in Germany must have proof of insurance.
- Noise Limits: Vehicles must not exceed a sound power level of 130 dB(A).
- Track Conduct: Deliberate contamination of the track is prohibited. In case of any leakage (coolant, oil, fuel), driving must cease immediately.
- Photography and Filming: Taking photographs, filming, or making video recordings during tourist drives is prohibited.
- Commercial Activities: Providing commercial taxi trips, whether for a fee or free of charge, is prohibited during tourist drives.
Bucket Seats and Harnesses
When it comes to seating, the Nürburgring has specific guidelines:
- Bucket Seats: Seats with wrap-around head restraints, commonly referred to as “ears,” are not permitted during tourist drives as they can obstruct peripheral vision.
- Harnesses: While not explicitly prohibited, the use of racing harnesses should be approached with caution. If installed, they must be used correctly and in conjunction with appropriate seating to ensure safety.
At GSM Performance, we offer a range of bucket seats suitable for track use. However, it’s essential to ensure that any modifications comply with the Nürburgring’s regulations.
Helmets and HANS Devices
Regarding personal safety equipment:
- Helmets: Not mandatory for car drivers during tourist drives/public sessions. However, wearing one is recommended, especially if the vehicle is equipped with a roll cage.
oversteer48.com - HANS Devices: The use of Head and Neck Support (HANS) devices is prohibited during tourist drives as they can restrict head movement, potentially limiting the driver’s field of vision.
While not required, using safety equipment like helmets can enhance protection during high-speed driving.
Roll Cages – What’s Allowed and What Isn’t?
Roll cages are a popular safety upgrade for track-prepped vehicles, and many of our customers install them to increase structural rigidity and driver protection. However, if you’re planning to attend a public session (Touristenfahrten) at the Nürburgring, there are important limitations you need to be aware of.
During public sessions, the Nürburgring is treated as a public toll road, meaning all vehicles must comply with the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO). This includes rules about what kind of roll cage is acceptable. While roll cages are permitted, they must not interfere with safe access to or from the vehicle’s interior. This is where door bars become an issue.
What’s Not Allowed:
- Roll cages that feature door bars—horizontal or X-style bars that block or narrow the door opening—are not permitted during public sessions.
- These bars are considered a safety hazard in non-competitive settings because they can impede emergency egress for the driver or passenger in the event of a crash.
What’s Allowed:
- Roll cages that do not include door bars can be used during public sessions, as long as they don’t interfere with the car’s usability or violate any other StVZO regulation.
- All exposed cage tubing near occupants must be properly padded to reduce injury risk.
If your vehicle features a full cage with integrated door bars, it will not be allowed on track during Touristenfahrten, even if other safety equipment is compliant. It’s a common misunderstanding among enthusiasts that more safety always means better compliance—but in this case, the Nürburgring prioritises accessibility and road-legal setup over full race-spec design.
GSM Performance: Your Nürburgring Preparation Partner
At GSM Performance, we understand the thrill of driving the Nürburgring and the importance of adhering to its regulations. Our range of products, including seats, harnesses, and safety equipment, is curated to meet the track’s requirements.
Whether you’re preparing for your first tourist drive or are a seasoned Nürburgring enthusiast, our team is here to assist you in selecting the right equipment to ensure both compliance and performance.