Car Insurance
(KFZ-Versicherung) Explained
New to Germany with a car? Liability insurance is mandatory to register and drive any vehicle. Here's what you need to know.
English guide • Understand German car insurance • Get your eVB number
⚠️ Important: Car Insurance is Mandatory!
You cannot register a car in Germany without proof of liability insurance. You'll need an eVB number (elektronische Versicherungsbestätigung) from your insurer before going to the Zulassungsstelle (registration office).
đź’ˇ Tip for Newcomers
Germany uses a no-claims bonus system (SF-Klasse) based on your accident-free driving years. As a newcomer without German driving history, you may start at a basic level with higher premiums. Some insurers accept proof of claims-free years from your home country!
What is KFZ-Versicherung?
KFZ-Versicherung (short for Kraftfahrzeugversicherung) is car insurance in Germany. It's one of the most important insurances you'll need if you own or drive a car here.
The system works differently than in many other countries. Germany has three types of coverage, and only liability insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung) is legally required.
Key German Terms You'll See
Three Types of Car Insurance in Germany
Understanding the difference is important for choosing the right coverage
Haftpflichtversicherung
Liability Insurance
Covers damage you cause to others (people, vehicles, property). Required by law – you cannot register a car without it.
- Personal injury to third parties
- Damage to other vehicles
- Property damage
Teilkaskoversicherung
Partial Coverage
Protects your own vehicle against certain events that are not caused by you.
- Theft and break-in
- Natural disasters (hail, storm, flood)
- Glass damage, animal collisions
Vollkaskoversicherung
Comprehensive Coverage
Includes everything in Teilkasko plus protection for self-caused accidents and vandalism.
- All Teilkasko benefits
- Self-caused accidents
- Vandalism, hit-and-run damage
Step-by-Step: How to Get Car Insurance
As a newcomer, follow these steps to insure and register your car
Compare Insurance Options
Use a comparison tool to find the best coverage for your situation. Consider whether you need just Haftpflicht (liability) or also Kasko coverage.
đź’ˇ Tip: New/leased cars typically need Vollkasko. Older cars may only need Haftpflicht or Teilkasko.
Choose a Policy and Get Your eVB Number
When you sign up for insurance, you'll receive an eVB-Nummer (electronic insurance confirmation) – a 7-character code. This is essential for registering your car.
đź’ˇ Tip: The eVB number is usually sent by email or SMS within minutes. Keep it ready!
Register Your Car at the Zulassungsstelle
Bring your eVB number, vehicle documents (Fahrzeugbrief/Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil II), ID, and proof of address to the registration office.
đź’ˇ Tip: Many cities now allow online registration or require appointments. Check your local Zulassungsstelle website.
Get Your License Plates
After successful registration, you'll receive your Kennzeichen (license plates). Your insurance is now active and you can legally drive!
đź’ˇ Tip: You can often choose a custom license plate number for an extra fee.
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Common Questions from Newcomers
What expats and new residents often ask about car insurance in Germany
What is an eVB number and why do I need it?
The eVB-Nummer (elektronische Versicherungsbestätigung) is a 7-character code that proves you have valid car insurance. You'll receive it from your insurer after signing up. Without it, you cannot register your car at the Zulassungsstelle. It's one of the essential documents you need to get license plates.
Do I need a Schufa score for car insurance?
No! Car insurance in Germany does not require a Schufa check. Insurers don't check your credit history, so newcomers without German financial history can get coverage without issues. What matters is your driving history, not your credit.
Can I transfer my no-claims bonus from my home country?
Possibly! Many German insurers accept proof of claims-free driving years from abroad. You'll need an official letter from your previous insurer confirming your history. Not all insurers accept this, and the amount of discount varies – ask when comparing quotes.
Why are my premiums so high as a new driver in Germany?
Germany uses the SF-Klasse (Schadenfreiheitsklasse) system. Without German driving history, you typically start at SF 0 or SF ½, which means higher premiums. Each accident-free year in Germany increases your class and lowers your premium. Some insurers let you transfer foreign no-claims history to get better rates.
What coverage do I need for a new car vs an old car?
New cars, especially leased or financed vehicles, typically require Vollkasko (comprehensive coverage) – often this is required by the dealer/bank. For older cars worth less than €5,000, many people only get Haftpflicht (liability) or Teilkasko (partial coverage) to save money.
When can I switch my car insurance?
Most car insurance contracts run for one year. Regular cancellation (ordentliche KĂĽndigung) must be submitted by November 30th for the switch to take effect on January 1st. You also have special cancellation rights after premium increases or if you have a claim.
Is my insurance valid for driving in other EU countries?
Yes! German car insurance covers you in all EU/EEA countries and countries that recognize the Green Card system. For trips outside Europe, check with your insurer. If you have an accident abroad, contact your insurer immediately and fill out an accident report (Unfallbericht).
What happens if I have an accident?
In case of an accident: stay calm, secure the scene, call police if there are injuries or significant damage. Exchange details with the other party and take photos. Report the accident to your insurer within one week (sooner is better). Your insurer will guide you through the claims process.
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