Vehicle license plates; information

The vehicle registration number consists of a distinguishing sign for the administrative district and an identification number. Vehicles belonging to federal and state authorities, the diplomatic corps and privileged international organizations are given special license plates.

The registration number can be written in the registration certificate with or without a hyphen. Both spellings are equally valid.

The distinguishing marks and identification numbers are applied to a license plate with black lettering on a white background with a black border ("normal" license plates).

The license plates must not be mirrored, covered or dirty. Furthermore, they may not be additionally covered with glass, foil or similar coverings. License plates must be reflective and bear the inspection and monitoring symbol with the corresponding registration number on the front.

The dimensions of the license plates are as follows

• single-line license plates: Maximum width: 520 mm, height: 110 mm,
• two-line license plates: Maximum width: 340 mm, for two- and three-wheeled motor vehicles 280 mm, height: 200 mm,
• Motorcycle license plates: Minimum/maximum width: 180 mm/220 mm, height: 200 mm and
• reduced two-line license plates: Maximum width: 255 mm, height: 130 mm.

Reduced two-line license plates are only intended for light motorcycles, as well as for lof tractors according to Directive 2003/37/EC or according to Regulation (EU) 167/2013 and their trailers. So-called quads do not receive reduced license plates, as they do not comply with Directive 2003/37/EC or Regulation (EU) 167/2013 even if they are coded as lof tractors.

License plates must be firmly attached to the front and rear of the motor vehicle. For single-axle tractors, the license plate on the front is sufficient, for trailers and motorcycles on the rear. Rear license plates must be illuminated.

Further information on special license plates (e.g. classic car license plates, short-term license plates, seasonal license plates, insurance license plates, interchangeable license plates, export license plates, red and green license plates) can be found under "Related topics".