Register a car or transfer it to a new owner in Germany

New, used, imported or changing hands: the same office handles it

In Germany a car is registered at the vehicle registration office, the Zulassungsstelle, of the city or district where the owner lives. You usually need your ID, the vehicle’s registration documents, a confirmation number from your insurer and proof that the car has passed its inspection. Cars brought in from abroad need extra papers, and some offices accept straightforward cases online.

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How it works

Register or transfer a vehicle

Register a car you bought or imported, or transfer it to a new owner.

When you buy, import or sell a vehicle, its registration has to be updated. A first registration or an import usually requires proof of ownership, a valid technical inspection, insurance, your ID and proof of address; imports may also need customs or tax clearance and new plates. When you buy a used car within the country, the seller and buyer often complete the transfer together, sometimes online, at a post office or at a registration counter. Expect fees for plates and registration documents.

Also searched as

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At a glance

Offices
51 offices in 37 cities
Book online
At 47 of 51 offices
Apply online
At 25 of 51 offices

Some cases run online, others need a visit

Where to register your vehicle

Financed or leased cars, special plates and imports often go through the counter, while straightforward cases may be done online. Whatever the case, have your ID, the vehicle’s registration papers and your insurer’s confirmation number ready.

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Other countries

The same task in other countries

Moving on, or comparing before you decide? See how this works elsewhere.

Where to next

Offices that register vehicles

See which vehicle registration office serves your city and whether it takes your case online or only at the counter.

Vehicle registration offices in Germany

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