A clamping circuit is described which prevents an input signal present on an input path from being able to assume a negative potential. The circuit is distinguished by a high voltage endurance in conjunction with accurate adherence to the clamping voltage and, at the same time, a low current consumption in the normal mode. The clamping circuit contains cross-coupled first and second transistors and can be changed over from a normal mode to a clamping mode if the voltage of the input signal falls below a predetermined clamping voltage, preferably 0 V. For this purpose, a third transistor is provided, which is connected into the input path in such a way that it is in a reverse conducting state in the clamping mode of the circuit and in a forward blocked state in the normal mode.