Registration is an important process that every vehicle has to go through. In this article, you will find out what you need to register your vehicle, how it works and how long it is valid for.
What is the approval?
When a vehicle is registered, it is released for use on public roads. The competent authority registers the vehicle in a central database – the vehicle register – and assigns a license plate number. This makes the vehicle clearly identifiable, which is particularly important in the event of accidents, theft or other legal issues.
What do I need for vehicle registration?
Various documents are required to register a vehicle:
- Identity card or passport as proof of identity
- Vehicle registration certificate (registration certificate part I) documents the technical data of the vehicle
- Vehicle registration certificate (registration certificate part II) confirms that you are the legal owner of the vehicle
- Proof of insurance (eVB number) confirms that the vehicle has third-party liability insurance
- TÜV certificate for proof of passing the general inspection (HU), which must not be more than 24 months old
- SEPA direct debit mandate for vehicle tax authorizes the customs authority to collect the vehicle tax from the account
How do I get a license?
The procedure for obtaining a vehicle registration comprises several steps:
- Preparation of documents: Make sure that all required documents are complete and up-to-date.
- Making an appointment: Make an appointment with the registration office in good time to avoid long waiting times.
- Application: Submit the required documents to the registration office.
- Checking and registration: The registration office checks your documents and registers the vehicle in the central vehicle file.
- Payment of the fees: Pay the applicable fees directly at the registration office.
- Receiving the license plates: After successful registration, you will receive the new license plates, which you must attach to the vehicle.
How long does it take to register a car?
As a rule, vehicle registration only takes a few hours to a day if the documents are complete. However, the process can take longer if there is a high volume of applications or missing documents.
What does it cost to register a vehicle?
The costs for vehicle registration vary depending on the region and individual factors. The basic fee is usually between 30 and 50 euros and covers the issuing of the registration certificate parts I and II as well as the allocation of the registration plate. Added to this are the costs for embossing the registration plate, which amount to approx. 20 to 40 euros. Further costs are to be expected if a special license plate is desired or if the registration takes place in a different registration district.
How long is a vehicle registration valid for?
In principle, a vehicle registration is valid indefinitely as long as certain legal requirements are met. Firstly, the vehicle must have continuous third-party liability insurance. The registration authority can deregister the vehicle as soon as the insurance cover expires. Another important point is the regular performance of the main inspection (HU) to ensure road safety. If the general inspection is carried out too late or is not passed, the registration can also be withdrawn in this case. The registration can also be withdrawn if the vehicle tax is not paid or is paid irregularly.
