Vehicle license plates; applying for a short-term license plate

If you want to test drive or transfer a vehicle that is not registered, you can apply for a temporary license plate. It begins with the identification number "03" or "04". This license plate can be used once and loses its validity after the registered period has expired.

The license plate is valid for a maximum of five calendar days (including the day of allocation by the registration authority). It is not possible to specify a different start date for the period of validity. Please take this into account, especially when applying before a weekend or public holiday.

• The vehicle must already be known when the short-term license plate is allocated.
• It must have an operating license and a valid main inspection/safety test.
• It must also be in a roadworthy condition.

Vehicles without an operating license and/or a valid general inspection/safety test are issued license plates for the journeys required to purchase them.

You must submit the application to the registration authority at your main place of residence, place of business or place of the participating branch or location. You can also authorize a representative (e.g. car dealer) to do this with your written power of attorney.

If an application form is required, you can obtain it 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.

You can find information about the registration authorities under "Further links".

You will receive a special vehicle registration document from the registration authority. The license plate can only be used on one vehicle.

Tip: You can have the license plates produced during the registration process. To do this, you can contact private providers, which are usually located near the registration authorities.

• Purchase contract
  If applicable, as proof of the vehicle's location
• Vehicle documents of the owner
  If applicable, as proof of the vehicle's location
• Written power of attorney
  If the vehicle is registered by a third party, a written power of attorney is required. Please present the identification documents of the owner and the authorized representative.

• official identification document
• Proof of type approval (vehicle documents, EU certificate of conformity)
• Proof of valid main inspection / safety inspection if required (test report)
• Confirmation of the existence of motor vehicle liability insurance (insurance confirmation - "eVB")
• Power of attorney (also required for registration for a relative)
• Consent of the parent or legal guardian if the application is submitted by a minor

The short-term license plate fee is EUR 13.10.

Plus the fee charged by the Federal Motor Transport Authority (EUR 2.60) and for document seals used (EUR 0.30 each). The registration authority may also charge for any postage costs incurred.