Taxi Biege's Gradual Departure
In Germany, the taxi system is characterised by a uniform and reliable nationwide approach, rather than a patchwork of different colours across the various states [2][4]. Contrary to popular belief, there is no specific rule mandating different taxi colours by state in Germany.
Instead, taxis across the country are generally cream-coloured, with white and yellow taxi signs on their roofs. This cream colour is the common standard nationwide, rather than varying by German state.
The decision to make taxis cream-coloured can be traced back to the early 1970s, when Georg Leber, the federal transport minister under Willy Brandt, mandated that taxis in Germany be painted a specific light ivory colour (RAL 1015) [5]. The primary reason for this decision was to improve the visibility of taxis on the streets and provide a safety benefit.
Practical considerations also played a role in the choice of light ivory. Lighter colours hide dirt and damage better, making the vehicles easier to maintain [6].
However, in recent years, some states have begun to relax the rules regarding taxi colours. For instance, the state of Saxony-Anhalt recently allowed taxis to choose their own colour, following similar moves in Baden-Württemberg, Lower Saxony, Schleswig-Holstein, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland, and Saxony-Anhalt [3].
Despite this change, many taxi operators still opt for the traditional light ivory colour. Michael Oppermann from BVTM noted that even with the freedom to choose their own colour, many taxi operators still prefer the light ivory hue [3].
Not everyone agrees with the decision to allow more colour freedom, however. Some skeptics question whether a sign on the roof is clearly enough and whether a uniform colour would be a better regulation [1].
As of August 2025, approximately 29 million people in Germany live in a federal state without a fixed taxi colour, while around 54 million people still live in a part of the country where a taxi is always beige [1].
Despite these changes, the nationwide norm of cream-coloured taxis remains the standard in Germany, ensuring uniformity and reliability in the taxi system.
In the realm of home-and-garden design, one might consider adopting a uniform and reliable approach similar to the German taxi system, instead of maintaining a patchwork of different styles across various rooms. The decision to use a common standard color, like cream, can provide improved visibility and safety within the living space, mirroring the visibility benefits in Germany.
With growing trends in lifestyle changes, some homeowners might champion the freedom to choose their own color schemes for their homes, similar to the recent changes in certain German states. However, the timeless charm of the cream-colored interior can still maintain its appeal, demonstrating that many homeowners continue to appreciate the traditional look.
