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Buy and register a car

Selected criteria

  1. I already live in Germany
  2. Everyday life and transport
  3. Buy or register a car

After buying a car, do not try to handle everything in one step. First choose a clear purchase option and inspect the car, then gather the documents and decide how to arrange insurance. Next prepare for registration: choose an in-person appointment or, if suitable for your situation, a digital option, and check your document folder in advance. Once registration is complete, set up your day-to-day owner routine: keep the required equipment, account for regular costs, and check local restrictions before driving in cities. This page brings the materials together in a practical order: from choosing a car and completing the paperwork to your first trips and ongoing maintenance. Open the cards as needed: some are useful before the purchase, others directly for registration, and the rest will help you use your car with confidence afterwards.

Plan overview

Resources for choosing a car, preparing for registration and getting off to a smooth start as a car owner.

What to do step by step

  1. 1

    Choose an ownership option and car

    Compare buying, financing, leasing and Auto-Abo, then inspect the car you choose and the purchase terms.

    Articles for this step

    How to Buy a Car in Germany: Selection, Inspection, Contract, and Registration Buying, leasing, or Auto-Abo in Germany: how to choose a car ownership model Car Loan in Germany: Choosing a Bank, Dealer and Repayment Plan
  2. 2

    Check the car and documents

    Before paying, clarify the inspection status and make sure the important vehicle documents are complete and clear.

    Articles for this step

    TÜV in Germany: How to Pass the HU/AU Inspection, Deadlines, Costs, and Fines Car Documents in Germany: What to Carry With You and What to Keep at Home
  3. 3

    Arrange insurance

    Choose insurance cover and obtain the details needed for registration.

    Articles for this step

    Car Insurance in Germany: Haftpflicht, Teilkasko, Vollkasko and eVB
  4. 4

    Prepare for and complete registration

    Gather the documents for the Zulassungsstelle or check whether digital registration suits your situation.

    Articles for this step

    Registering a Car in Germany After Purchase: Documents, Zulassungsstelle, and i-Kfz Kfz-Steuer in Germany: How Car Tax Is Calculated, When It’s Due, and What Exemptions Are Available
  5. 5
  6. 6

    Plan regular costs and seasonal tasks

    Budget for ownership costs, choose suitable fuel and prepare for winter conditions.

    Articles for this step

    How Much Does It Cost to Own a Car in Germany: Post-Purchase Expenses E10 Petrol in Germany: Compatibility, Price, and How It Differs from E5 Winter Tires in Germany: Rules, Marking, and Fines
  7. 7

    Plan your car protection

    Learn what to do after an animal collision, how to prevent theft and what additional insurance options are available.

    Articles for this step

    Accidents Involving Wild Animals in Germany: What to Do and Which Insurance Covers It Car Theft in Germany: 2024 Statistics, High-Risk Regions and Vehicle Protection Telematics in German Auto Insurance: How to Get a Discount for Safe Driving

Important notes

  • Arrange compulsory insurance and obtain an eVB before registration.
  • Appointment procedures at the registration authority may vary depending on where you live.
  • Include vehicle tax in your ownership costs after registering the car.
  • Check local restrictions separately before driving into a city.

Common mistakes

  • Book an appointment without an eVB
  • Rely on an old TÜV without checking its expiry date
  • Reveal the Sicherheitscode too early