The invention relates to a method for straightening a metal strip (1) which is guided in the direction of transportation (R) through a straightening machine (2) and is straightened. In the straightening device (2), the metal strip (1) is impinged upon by a straightening force (F) which is applied by a plurality of straightening rollers (3) in the direction (N) which is perpendicular to the surface of the metal strip (1). According to the invention, prior to the metal strip (1) entering into the straightening machine (2), the thickness (d) of the metal strip (1) is determined and the position (a) of the straightening rollers (3) in the direction (N) which is perpendicular to the surface of the metal strip (1) is taken into account according to the determined thickness (d).