The branch offices of the Federal Office process these administrative offences on a decentralised basis.
The BALM is responsible for violations by non-resident affected parties in the following areas of law:
- Road Freight Transport Act
Passenger Transportation Act
Driving Personnel Act
Hazardous goods transport law
Refuse transport law
Professional driver qualification act
The BALM is responsible for violations by resident affected parties in the following areas of law:
- Road Freight Transport Act
Federal Statistics Act
Professional driver qualification act
The findings are forwarded to the relevant State authorities if the BALM is not the responsible authority for fines.
If it is responsible, the BALM processes control reports from the road control service and the police, as well as notifications from other authorities. If necessary, additional investigations are carried out. Those affected can comment on the allegations. After the necessary investigations have been completed, a notice of fines is issued on a regular basis.
In the case of minor administrative offences, a warning with or without a warning fee will be issued or the proceedings will be terminated. An objection can be lodged against a notice of fines. The Cologne District Court is responsible for legal proceedings.