Vehicle License Plates; Applying for a Temporary License Plate

If you wish to conduct test drives or transport a vehicle that is not yet registered, you can apply for a temporary license plate. It begins with the identification number “03” or “04.” This license plate can be used only once and expires at the end of the specified period.

The license plate is valid for a maximum of five calendar days (including the day it is issued by the registration authority). It is not possible to specify a different start date for the validity period. Please keep this in mind, especially when submitting your application before a weekend or a holiday.

• The vehicle must already be known at the time the temporary license plate is issued.
• It must have a valid registration and a valid general inspection/safety inspection.
• In addition, it must be in a roadworthy condition.

Vehicles without a certificate of registration and/or a valid general inspection/safety inspection are issued license plates to allow them to make the trips necessary for purchase.

You must submit the application to the registration authority for your primary residence, the company’s headquarters, or the location of the relevant branch or facility. You may also authorize a representative (e.g., a car dealer) to do so on your behalf 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 downloadable form or an online service may be available.

You can find information about the registration authorities under “Further Links.”

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

Tip: You can have the license plates made during the registration process. To do so, you can contact private providers, who are usually located near the registration offices.

• official identification document
• Proof of registration (vehicle documents, certificate of conformity)
• Proof of a valid general inspection / safety inspection, if required (inspection report)
• Confirmation of Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance Coverage (Insurance Confirmation - "eVB")
• Power of Attorney (also required when registering a relative)
• Parental Consent When a Minor Submits an Application

• Sales Contract
  if necessary, as proof of the vehicle's location
• Vehicle registration documents of the previous owner
  if necessary, as proof of the vehicle's location
• Power of Attorney in Writing
  If the vehicle is being registered by a third party, a written power of attorney is required. Please present the identification documents of both the vehicle owner and the authorized representative.

The fee for a temporary license plate is 13.10 EUR.

This does not include the fee charged by the Federal Motor Transport Authority (2.60 EUR) and the fee for document seals used (0.30 EUR each). In addition, the registration authority may charge for postage costs incurred.