Re-registering a car in Germany for Ukrainians: what do you need to know in 2026?

The transition period for the use of Ukrainian number plates in Germany has ended, and owners of cars with Ukrainian registration are required to undergo re-registration. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in fines and vehicle impoundment. Learn more about the necessary documents, technical inspection and car insurance in Germany

Green Card insurance policy for traveling abroad by car

BUY

Ukrainians who are in Germany with their cars should pay attention to important changes regarding the use of vehicles with Ukrainian number plates. According to information from Ukravtoprom, the transition period during which it was permitted to freely use cars with Ukrainian registration has ended. What this means for owners of Ukrainian cars, what documents are required for re-registration, and what the consequences are for non-compliance with the requirements — we explain further in this article.

Planning a trip abroad in your own car?

Get a Green Card on the Visit Ukraine portal in just a few minutes.

Why can Ukrainians in Germany no longer drive with Ukrainian number plates?

Germany granted Ukrainian refugees a transition period during which they had the right to use Ukrainian-registered cars without restrictions. This period was linked to the length of stay in the country — 12 months from the date of entry or receipt of temporary protection.

This transition period has now ended. Vehicles that have been in Germany for more than 12 months are subject to mandatory re-registration. The owner is obliged to obtain German number plates and bring the vehicle documentation into line with local legislation. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in serious consequences.

Fines for driving with Ukrainian number plates in Germany

Car owners who continue to drive with Ukrainian number plates after the permitted period has expired face financial penalties. German law enforcement officers have the right to issue a fine for operating an unregistered vehicle.

In addition to the fine, the car may be towed to an impound lot. All costs associated with the towing and storage of the vehicle are borne by its owner. Therefore, it is highly inadvisable to delay the re-registration procedure — it can be much more expensive than the procedure for obtaining German number plates itself.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Technical inspection of a car in Germany: TÜV and DEKRA

Before re-registration, the car must undergo a German technical inspection. It can be carried out by certified organisations — TÜV or DEKRA. During the inspection, the general technical condition of the vehicle and its compliance with German safety and environmental standards are checked.

It is worth preparing the car for the technical inspection in advance, as the technical requirements in Germany are quite strict. It is recommended to check the braking system, lighting, tyre condition and other key components of the car before visiting the service centre. Passing the inspection is a prerequisite for further registration.

Car insurance for Ukrainians in Germany

Another important aspect is insurance. After a year of living in Germany, the Ukrainian ‘Green Card’ may lose its validity in Germany, i.e. it will not be recognised by local authorities. The owner must take out a German insurance policy for the car.

German insurance is a mandatory requirement for vehicle registration. Without a valid insurance policy, it is impossible to complete the re-registration procedure. Insurance can be obtained from German insurance companies, and the insurance policy number (eVB-Nummer) will be required when applying to the registration authority.

For Ukrainians travelling through Europe in their own car, the issue of international motor insurance remains relevant. On the Visit Ukraine portal, you can quickly and conveniently obtain a Green Card — an international motor vehicle liability insurance policy. This document provides insurance protection when crossing borders and travelling through European countries.

Get your Green Card online at Visit Ukraine to travel with confidence and without unnecessary risks!

Reminder! Ukrainians with temporary protection under §24 in Germany are increasingly interested in the possibility of naturalisation. The law allows this period to be counted towards the required length of residence, but a number of additional conditions must be met in order to apply for citizenship. Does temporary protection in Germany count towards naturalisation? We explain this at the link.

Photo: generated using Gemini

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2026, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.