SF-Klasse
Car Insurance Germany
SF-Klasse (Schadenfreiheitsklasse) is Germany's no-claims bonus system. The longer you drive without claims, the less you pay!
Build your bonus • Save up to 70% • Transfer from abroad possible
Mandatory Insurance in Germany
Car insurance is mandatory in Germany (Haftpflichtversicherung). Your SF-Klasse directly affects how much you pay. Understanding this system can save you hundreds of euros per year on your premium.
What is SF-Klasse?
SF-Klasse (Schadenfreiheitsklasse) is a rating system that tracks your claim-free driving years. Each year without a claim increases your class and decreases your premium. The system rewards safe drivers!
💡 Good News for Expats
Many German insurers accept proof of claims-free driving from other countries. If you have a letter from your previous insurer confirming your accident-free years, you may qualify for a better SF-Klasse!
How SF-Klasse Affects Your Premium
Example SF-Klasse Premium Table
| SF-Klasse | Claim-Free Years | Premium % | You Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| SF 0 | Beginner / After claim | 230% | More than double |
| SF ½ | First-time driver | 140-200% | 40-100% surcharge |
| SF 1 | 1 year | 100-115% | Base rate |
| SF 5 | 5 years | ~60% | 40% discount |
| SF 10 | 10 years | ~40% | 60% discount |
| SF 20 | 20 years | ~30% | 70% discount |
| SF 35+ | 35+ years | ~25% | 75% discount |
Note: Exact percentages vary by insurer. This table shows typical values.
How to Improve Your SF-Klasse
- Drive without claims each year
- Transfer foreign no-claims years (if accepted)
- Register as a second driver on parents' car first
- Pay small claims out of pocket to avoid downgrading
What Happens After a Claim
- At-fault claims downgrade your SF-Klasse
- Typical: drop 3-10 classes per claim
- Premium increases from next renewal
- "Rabattschutz" protects your class (extra cost)
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SF-Klasse Questions
Can I transfer my SF-Klasse from another country?
Many German insurers accept proof of claims-free driving years from other countries. You'll need an official letter from your previous insurer confirming your history. Not all insurers accept this, and the conversion rate varies – always ask when comparing!
What happens to my SF-Klasse if I don't drive for a few years?
If you haven't had car insurance in Germany for a while, your SF-Klasse may be reduced or reset, depending on the insurer and how long you were without coverage. Some insurers are more lenient than others.
Can I inherit SF-Klasse from a family member?
In some cases, yes! You may be able to take over a family member's SF-Klasse if they stop driving (e.g., parents giving up their car). Rules vary by insurer. Being listed as a second driver on their policy can also help you build history.
Does switching insurers affect my SF-Klasse?
No, your SF-Klasse transfers between insurers. When you switch, your new insurer will verify your class with the previous one. Your accumulated no-claims years are yours to keep.
What is the difference between SF 0 and SF 1/2?
SF 0 is where you land after making a claim as a beginner. It carries the highest surcharge (around 230% of the base rate). SF 1/2 is the starting class for brand-new drivers who just got their license. It still has a surcharge (140-200%) but is better than SF 0. After one claim-free year at SF 1/2, you move to SF 1.
How many SF-Klasse levels are there?
The system ranges from SF 0 (worst, after a claim) through SF 1/2 (new driver) up to SF 35 or higher, depending on the insurer. Each claim-free year moves you up one level. At SF 35+, you can enjoy discounts of 75% or more off the base rate.
What's Rabattschutz (bonus protection)?
Rabattschutz is an optional add-on that protects your SF-Klasse after a claim. With it, one claim per year won't downgrade your class. It costs extra but can be worth it if you have a high SF-Klasse to protect.
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