Closing times

Closing times set out when a betting shop has to be closed. During this time, no bets may be accepted and the shop stays shut for users. They are closely linked to the permitted opening hours and are the flip side of them. Where the shop may not open, a closing time applies.

Important to know: in Germany, such times are a matter for the states. There is no nationwide uniform standard. The exact rules vary by federal state and municipality. Specific times therefore cannot be stated across the board. What applies in one town can be regulated quite differently in another.

You can read more in the guide Betting shop opening hours.

Closing times serve several goals. They are intended to secure quiet periods and support protection against excessive play.

• Player protection: fixed breaks limit uninterrupted play
• Public order: closing times ensure quiet at night
• Local rules: towns and municipalities can set their own requirements
• Supervision: compliance is checked on site

Because the requirements are so varied, it makes sense to check the particular shop directly. The posted opening hours give you the reliable information. Behind the rules is the idea that gambling needs clear limits and shouldn't be available at every time of day and night.

For you as a user, closing times are noticeable above all in everyday life. You should keep these points in mind.

• Planning: a late visit can fail because of the closing times
• Payout: redeeming a receipt is also only possible when the shop is open
• Breaks: closing times interrupt continuous play
• Differences: a shop in the neighbouring town can have different times

The fixed breaks are also part of player protection. They ensure that betting cannot take place around the clock. Anyone who wants to collect winnings should know the shop's opening hours. Unlike with online betting, on site you are bound by these times. So plan a visit so that you have enough time before closing.

Since closing times are state law, the situation can differ from place to place. These factors play a role.

• Federal state: each state can set its own requirements
• Municipality: towns and municipalities implement the framework locally
• Location: the position and surroundings of the shop can have an influence
• Provider: the operator follows the local requirements

There is therefore no universally valid table of times. Only the official details of the individual betting shop are reliable. The operator itself also has to comply with the local requirements and cannot set them freely.

Since closing times vary by federal state and municipality, there is no blanket answer. It's best to rely on the official details of the individual betting shop. These ways lead you to reliable information.

• Notice in the shop: the opening hours are usually posted visibly in the shop
• Ask directly: the staff know the current times
• Shop page: the respective location page often states the opening hours

If in doubt, ask directly at the shop about the current opening hours before you set off. That saves you a wasted trip if the shop happens to be closed. On public holidays, the times can also differ, so check the shop page before you go.

Regardless of the times: gambling is only permitted from the age of 18 (21 in Bremen) and can be addictive. Watch your playing behaviour and use support services if needed. Set yourself a fixed budget and see betting as entertainment, not as a source of income. If you have problems, free and confidential counselling services can help; often a single call to a counselling centre is enough. Fixed breaks and a clear time limit for your visit to the betting shop can also help you keep play within bounds.