A device is proposed for controlling the injection start to a set-point value dependent on operating parameters, in which the period of time between the appearance of an injection start signal and a reference marking (for instance, a top-dead-center signal) is counted out and the result of counting is compared with the set-point value. To avoid malfunctioning, the triggering of the counting process is possible in only one, predetermined crankshaft angle range. Various values are provided for the counting-out frequency. In the exemplary embodiment they are within the range between 50 and 200 kHz. In case of failure, a control of injection onset is effected, and as needed, a limitation of the fuel quantity as well--for instance to 70% of the respectively determined quantity.