One of the first steps to owning a car in Germany is legally registering your vehicle. Without registration, it is not possible to drive your car on German roads. In this article, we will explain how to register a car in Germany, the required documents, and the process step by step. Our goal is to guide you through this process so you can complete your registration quickly and smoothly.

The Importance of Vehicle Registration

Before starting to drive your car in Germany, it is a legal requirement to register it. This process ensures that your car complies with tax, insurance, and safety regulations. Additionally, your registration determines the vehicle’s identity, and your license plate will indicate the city where it is registered. For example, a vehicle in Berlin will have a plate number starting with the letter “B.”

The Process of Vehicle Registration in Germany

1. New Vehicle Registration

When you purchase a new car, the dealership usually handles the registration for you. If you buy a brand-new vehicle, you can request this service from the dealership, and they typically take care of all the paperwork. However, if your vehicle has not been registered yet, the process known as “first registration” will be initiated.

2. Used Vehicle Registration

If you are purchasing a used car, there is an additional step: If the previous owner has not canceled the registration, you will need to re-register the car. Additionally, if the car has been imported from abroad, extra documents may be required.

Required Documents for Vehicle Registration

To register your vehicle, the following documents are generally required:

• Identification Document: A foreign passport or identity card for residents of Germany.

• Vehicle Registration Certificate: A document showing the previous registration of the car.

• Proof of Ownership: A document proving that the vehicle is yours.

• Insurance Number (eVB Number): A document showing that the car is insured.

• TÜV Certificate: The vehicle must pass a technical inspection to ensure road safety.

• Import Certificate: Required for vehicles imported from abroad.

• SEPA Direct Debit Authorization: Required for paying vehicle taxes.

TÜV Inspection and Road Safety

In Germany, vehicles are required to undergo technical inspections at regular intervals. Used vehicles must pass the TÜV(road safety) test before registration. This test determines whether your vehicle is safe to drive and usually costs between 70 to 150 Euros. If your vehicle fails the test, you will need to correct any issues and re-present it for inspection.

When is the TÜV Test Required?

• New Vehicles: The first test is required after 3 years.

• Used Vehicles: The test is required every 2 years.

• Older Vehicles: Vehicles older than 7 years must undergo testing every year.

Registration Costs

The cost of vehicle registration varies depending on the region and the condition of the vehicle. Typically, the registration fee ranges from 30 to 60 Euros. If you opt for a personalized license plate or need to process missing documents, these fees may increase.

Is Personal Presence Required for Registration?

In most cases, you will need to register the vehicle in person. However, if you cannot attend, you may assign a representative to handle the registration on your behalf. This person can be a friend or family member, but you must provide them with a power of attorney. If you buy your vehicle from a dealership, they will often handle the registration for you on your behalf.

Vehicle Insurance and Preparing for the Road

In Germany, it is not possible to register your vehicle without insurance. Once you obtain your insurance policy, you can contact the insurance company to obtain a “no-claims certificate” and benefit from discounted rates.

Vehicle Tax

After completing the registration process, the German customs office (Zollamt) will send you a notification specifying the amount of vehicle tax you owe. Vehicle tax is determined based on factors such as the engine size and emission values of the vehicle.