Leistungen A-Z

Vehicles may only be put into operation on public roads if they are registered for traffic. Registration is granted by the registration authority upon application if the vehicle corresponds to an approved type or an individual approval has been granted and motor vehicle liability insurance is in place. Registration is carried out by assigning a license plate and issuing a registration certificate.

The registration of a brand-new vehicle is referred to as initial registration.

• Completed application forms, if applicable
• Valid identification document (identity card or passport of the vehicle owner; if passport is presented, also a current registration certificate)
• Registration certificate part II (vehicle registration document) or operating license (for vehicles without registration)
• the EC Certificate of Conformity (also called Certificate of Conformity (CoC))
• Proof of ownership (purchase contract or invoice)
• Insurance confirmation (eVB number)
• Bank details for vehicle tax (SEPA direct debit mandate)

Further information can be obtained from your local registration authority.

The following may also need to be submitted, for example

• if you are represented by a third party:
  Your written power of attorney and your identity document (original); the authorized representative himself must be able to identify himself with his valid identity card/passport.
• In the case of authorization for minors:
  the written declaration of consent of the legal guardians and their identity cards (original); if applicable, a certificate of sole custody (so-called "negative certificate") for single parents
• for modifications to the vehicle: an expert opinion in accordance with § 21 StVZO (Road Traffic Licensing Regulations, full approval). An operating license must be applied for separately)

The fee is charged in accordance with the German Road Traffic Fee Regulations (GebOSt). The amount depends on various factors. Information can be obtained on a case-by-case basis from the local licensing authority.

The costs for the license plates are not included in the fees.

You can submit the application for registration in person or appoint a representative with your written authorization.

If an application form is required, you can obtain this in advance from the registration authority and fill it out at home. Depending on the services offered by your registration authority, a download form or an online service via the Internet may be available.

If you would like to reserve a preferred license plate, this can be done in person, in writing and/or by telephone or as an online service via the Internet before the new registration, depending on the service offered by the registration authority.

Registration office of the district or independent city in whose district your main residence is located.

Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO)

• Vehicle Registration Ordinance (FZV)
• Fee regulations for road traffic measures (GebOSt)

If you have any questions, please contact your local registration authority.

Since 01.10.2019, it has been possible for private individuals to carry out new registrations online. Please note that other requirements (§ 15i f. FZV) must be met here.

If there are vehicle tax arrears or you have arrears of fees and expenses from previous registration processes, the registration authority will refuse registration until you have settled these.

If someone is registering your vehicle on your behalf, the authorized representative must present a written power of attorney from you. This must also contain a declaration of consent that the registration authority may inform the authorized representative of any outstanding fees and expenses.

Hessian Ministry of Economics, Energy, Transport and Housing